Theory - Particle Physics or Condensed Matter

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the choice between specializing in Condensed Matter Physics or Particle Physics for an MSc in theoretical physics. Participants explore the career prospects associated with each field, including job availability and the nature of research positions.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a belief that Condensed Matter may offer better career prospects and higher-paying research jobs compared to Particle Physics.
  • Another participant questions the definition of "easier" in the context of job availability.
  • A different participant suggests that there may be more job opportunities in theoretical Condensed Matter.
  • There is a query about whether theorists primarily work in academic institutions and if they are required to teach, or if there are research-only positions available in companies.
  • A participant shares a link to employment statistics from the AIP, suggesting it could provide insights into job satisfaction and outcomes for physics graduates.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the career prospects of Condensed Matter versus Particle Physics, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without a consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not defined key terms such as "easier" or "better career prospects," and the discussion lacks specific data on job availability and satisfaction metrics beyond the shared link.

deadringer
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I'm starting an MSc in theoretical physics this October, and at the moment I'm considering specialising in Condensed Matter or Particle Physics, both of which look quite interesting. I was wondering which one had better career prospects. I suspect it's easier to get a well paid research job in Condensed Matter then Particles.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Define what you mean by easier?
 
I suspect that there will be more jobs available in theoretical condensed matter.

ps do theorists just work in academic institutions (and therefore have to do teaching), or can you get research jobs in companies, and just do research all the time?
 
Check this out:

ZapperZ said:
This is the latest statistics from the AIP regarding employment for Bachelors, Masters, and Ph.D's in physics, including "satisfaction" in their choices of field of study and where they end up.

http://www.aip.org/statistics/trends/reports/emp.pdf

Judge for yourself. This is THE most complete study of this type anywhere for the job situation in the US.

Zz.
 

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