Should I work with a renowned Physics prof Being an EEE?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around a student's consideration of working with a renowned Mathematical Physicist while transitioning from Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) to a more Physics-oriented field for graduate studies. The student expresses interest in areas like Plasma Physics, Optics, and Accelerator Physics, but is concerned about the alignment of their interests with the professor's focus on String Theory and the mathematical rigor required.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • The student is contemplating whether to pursue an opportunity to work with a renowned professor despite a lack of confidence in their mathematical background.
  • Some participants suggest that the primary value of research experience lies in gaining general research skills rather than direct alignment with future career goals.
  • Concerns are raised about the student's preparedness for the mathematical demands of working with the professor, with suggestions to assess their mathematical coursework and capabilities.
  • There is a suggestion that reviewing mathematics could be beneficial, regardless of the decision made about working with the professor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the importance of aligning research opportunities with specific interests versus the broader benefits of research experience. There is no consensus on whether the student should pursue the opportunity with the professor.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the student's uncertainty regarding their mathematical skills and the potential challenges of transitioning fields. There are references to specific mathematical topics the student has encountered, but no resolution on their adequacy for the proposed research opportunity.

Rio1210
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Hello,
I am currently a EEE junior year student in an International University. I am looking to shift fields to a more Physics oriented field in my Masters/Phd, something along the lines of Plasma Physics/ Optics/ Accelerator Physics etc
The thing is I have come across a quite renowned professor and I feel I have a good chance of working with him if I proceed as I have been talking with him for a while. But the catch is that he is a Mathematical Physicist and works on String Theory and stuff. He takes a good number of EEE students from top Uni here to help them switch fields and go into Theoretical Physics. But the thing is I don't want to go into "Pure theoretical Physics" for Grad School, but more along the line I mentioned earlier, but I do want to work on the more theoretical aspects of those fields.

So would it be wise to take up this opportunity and work with him, if I do get the chance? I feel I lack the required Mathematical Background to work with him, but I hope I can make it up in time should it be afforded. I should also mention that he's by far more renowned that any Professor in our University. So I guess that working with him will also help me get a good Letter of rec. if I don't blow it up. So what should I do? I hope I am not too vague. Thanks everyone!
 
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The point of an internship or research experience isn't necessarily to get work experience in the exact field that one is interested in pursuing post-graduation. The important part is getting experience in the general field of research and spending some time applying the concepts you've learned to the real world. It sounds like working with this professor could be a great opportunity. If there are other options available that are more to your interests, then you'll have to make that decision. I wouldn't base it solely on the reputation of the professor. Your own interests should be the main factor in deciding.
 
QuantumCurt said:
The point of an internship or research experience isn't necessarily to get work experience in the exact field that one is interested in pursuing post-graduation. The important part is getting experience in the general field of research and spending some time applying the concepts you've learned to the real world. It sounds like working with this professor could be a great opportunity. If there are other options available that are more to your interests, then you'll have to make that decision. I wouldn't base it solely on the reputation of the professor. Your own interests should be the main factor in deciding.

hey Thanks for the reply. You really put things in prespective for me. But one fear I have is that I wouldn't be able to cope with the rigor of Mathematics if I work with him. I am okay in Mathematics but I haven't used advanced mathematics in some time and don't know a lot of Mathematics too. So may be I should just start working and see where it leads and work on my Maths ??
 
How much math have you taken? How long has it been since you've taken it? It's typically assumed that undergrads aren't going to have a full repertoire of advanced mathematics under their belt. It is assumed that they'll have the capacity to learn the methods efficiently though. Given that this is a more mathematically intensive area, it's possible that the professor would prefer someone who has taken more advanced math classes. That's something you'd have to find out.

All that said, reviewing math is never a bad idea. :wink:
 
QuantumCurt said:
How much math have you taken? How long has it been since you've taken it? It's typically assumed that undergrads aren't going to have a full repertoire of advanced mathematics under their belt. It is assumed that they'll have the capacity to learn the methods efficiently though. Given that this is a more mathematically intensive area, it's possible that the professor would prefer someone who has taken more advanced math classes. That's something you'd have to find out.

All that said, reviewing math is never a bad idea. :wink:

It's been more than a two years since I practiced any serious maths. I've taken upto Differential Equations, Complex Numbers, Probability Theory (Random vectors and stuff), I haven't taken Multivariable calculas in depth(formally) but I get the idea and can solve some beginner problems, Fourier series & transform and Laplace Transform etc I guess you get the idea. But I think I do pick up mathematics fairly quickly, at least that's what I like to think. So what do you think?
 

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