Theoretical Physics Careers in Germany

  • Context: Physics 
  • Thread starter Thread starter amrfkr
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the career prospects for physics students, particularly in Theoretical Physics, within Germany. Participants explore the competitiveness of the field, potential subfields for PhD focus, and the job market in academia.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in pursuing a Master's degree in Theoretical Physics in Germany, considering subfields like Quantum Optics, Condensed Matter Theory, and Cosmology.
  • Another participant notes that permanent full-time academic positions are rare, emphasizing the need for exceptional qualifications and a degree of luck, while fixed-term positions are more common.
  • A participant questions the original poster's knowledge of German, suggesting that lacking language skills could severely limit job prospects in Germany.
  • The original poster confirms they are learning German, indicating an effort to improve their prospects.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the competitive nature of academic positions in Theoretical Physics in Germany, but there is uncertainty regarding the impact of language skills on job prospects.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the question of which subfields may offer more opportunities, nor does it clarify the specific language requirements for different positions.

amrfkr
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Hello,

I'm a physics student planning to pursue a Master's degree in Germany.

I'm particularly interested in Theoretical Physics, although I haven't yet decided which subfield I would like to focus on for my PhD. The areas I'm currently considering are Quantum Optics, Condensed Matter Theory, and Cosmology.

I understand that Theoretical Physics is extremely competitive worldwide.

However, I'm curious about the job prospects in Germany within academia, especially in the subfields I mentioned.

Also, are there any subfields within Theoretical Physics that currently offer more opportunities in Germany?
 
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Permanent full-time positions are few and far between in Academia. To find and get one you have to be very good and you need a lot of luck. Almost all jobs are fixed-term (2 - 3 years). There are more of them.
 
just curious, from your post I suspect that you currently do not reside in Germany. First question is, do you know German? If not, I suspect your prospects will be nil.
 
bryantcl said:
just curious, from your post I suspect that you currently do not reside in Germany. First question is, do you know German? If not, I suspect your prospects will be nil.
I'm learning German.
 
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