Theory undergrad -> experiment graduate

[PrismAndGate]

This may have been better to ask before I finished my grad school applications, but I think it will still be useful..
As an undergrad all my research experience has been theoretical/computational related to applied physics,materials, energy..., but in my applications I indicated reasons for wanting to do experimental research in similar areas to the computational experience I had. I didn't extend my math background much beyond the required PDEs, linear algebra, etc, and stuff, too.

I know we aren't supposed to know exactly what we want to do t this point, but is this type of "switch" common for undergrads entering grad school?

 

[f95toli]

I am not quite sure what you are referring to here.
Undergrads never (or at least very rarely) do any "real" experiments (lab exercises do not really count in this context), so there is no such things as an "experimental" undergrad.

 

[fasterthanjoao]

As an undergrad all my research experience has been theoretical/computational

The research experience you've gained is very minimal compared to what you'll actually do at graduate level so the actual material you cover isn't all that important. It's more about getting interested in the subject and if you can pick up some bonus skills along the way, like programming in computational work then great.

Experimental work is pretty much all computational nowadays, but even then, graduate schools will never consider an undergraduate student as committed to theory or experimental work based on the courses they've done. The most important thing to them is that you can demonstrate ability and the fact that you're actually interested in their subject.

 

[PrismAndGate]

I am not quite sure what you are referring to here.
Undergrads never (or at least very rarely) do any "real" experiments (lab exercises do not really count in this context), so there is no such things as an "experimental" undergrad.

Haha...yeah I know that. I'm sure there are plenty of students who do both types of projects. I guess my question was focused towards the types of skills one might be missing out on by not doing a research project in an experimental group.

Experimental work is pretty much all computational nowadays, but even then, graduate schools will never consider an undergraduate student as committed to theory or experimental work based on the courses they've done. The most important thing to them is that you can demonstrate ability and the fact that you're actually interested in their subject.

Thanks, your reply is the kind of thing I was looking for to get my perspective towards the right track. I think I picked up some misconceptions on other websites.

 

[rezeew]

I can say that it is not uncommon for undergraduates to switch from theoretical to experimental research when entering graduate school. Many undergraduates may have limited exposure to experimental research and may not have had the opportunity to explore it during their undergraduate studies. However, as they progress in their academic journey and gain more experience and knowledge, their interests may shift towards experimental research.

In your case, it is perfectly natural to have a change in research interests as you advance in your academic career. Your computational experience in applied physics, materials, and energy can provide a strong foundation for understanding experimental research in these areas. Additionally, your mathematical background in PDEs, linear algebra, and other areas will also be beneficial for experimental research, as these skills are often necessary for data analysis and interpretation.

It is important to keep an open mind and explore different areas of research during graduate school. Your interests and goals may continue to evolve as you gain more experience and exposure to different research methods and topics. So, don't worry if your interests have shifted towards experimental research – it is a common and natural progression in the scientific world. Focus on developing a strong foundation in your chosen field and continue to explore and learn new techniques and methods. This will ultimately make you a well-rounded and versatile scientist.