When should i worry about finding research group

In summary, it is recommended to wait until after your first year's "core-coursework" to email professors about potential research opportunities, as your first semester will likely be busy with coursework and teaching. However, it may be beneficial to attend seminars and group meetings during your first semester to start familiarizing yourself with the research in your field. Some students have had success starting to look for research opportunities in the second semester of their first year. If you have already been accepted into a PhD program, it may be appropriate to reach out to professors now to introduce yourself and express interest in their research.
  • #1
bjnartowt
284
3
I am graduating from master's program, and am about to go into a PhD program in fall 2011, hoping to go into theoretical condensed matter physics. Should I be e-mailing professors I want to possibly work with now, or should I wait until after my first year's "core-coursework"?
 
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  • #2
You should wait until you get there.
 
  • #3
No. No need to worry about that yet.

You will probably be bogged down with coursework and teaching during your first semester. You probably won't have time to do any significant work for a group. Though it is a good idea to go to the CM seminars and possibly a group meeting or two.

Personally, I started looking at the beginning of my second semester and started working with a group at the end of my second semester.
 
  • #4
bjnartowt said:
I am graduating from master's program, and am about to go into a PhD program in fall 2011, hoping to go into theoretical condensed matter physics. Should I be e-mailing professors I want to possibly work with now, or should I wait until after my first year's "core-coursework"?

It's not clear if you are going somewhere else for the PhD or not- and if you have been accepted into a program or not.

If you have been accepted into a program, I don't see anything wrong with sending an email introducing yourself to selected faculty now, indicating your desire to meet and discuss their projects.
 
  • #5


Congratulations on your acceptance into a PhD program in theoretical condensed matter physics! I understand your eagerness to start your research and find a research group. In general, it is always beneficial to start networking and reaching out to potential research advisors as early as possible. This will give you a head start in building relationships and finding a suitable research group.

However, it is also important to consider your readiness to start research. As a master's graduate, you may have a solid foundation in theoretical condensed matter physics, but your PhD program will likely have a more advanced and specialized curriculum. It may be beneficial to wait until after your first year's core coursework to fully understand your research interests and to have a better understanding of the research being conducted by different professors.

In the meantime, you can still reach out to potential research advisors and express your interest in their work. This can help you establish a connection and keep you updated on any potential research opportunities. Additionally, you can also start reading papers and attending seminars related to your research interests to gain a better understanding of the current research landscape.

Ultimately, the decision of when to start actively looking for a research group is up to you. But as a general recommendation, I would suggest starting to reach out to potential advisors and exploring your research interests as soon as possible while also considering your readiness to start research. Best of luck in your PhD program!
 

What is a research group?

A research group is a team of scientists, researchers, and students who work together to investigate a specific topic or question in their field of study.

Why is it important to join a research group?

Joining a research group allows you to collaborate with others who share your interests and expertise, learn new skills and techniques, and make valuable contributions to the scientific community.

When is the best time to join a research group?

The best time to join a research group is typically during your undergraduate or graduate studies, when you have more flexibility in your schedule and can gain hands-on research experience.

How do I find a research group to join?

You can find research groups by talking to your professors, attending conferences and seminars, networking with other scientists, and searching online for research opportunities in your field.

What should I consider when choosing a research group?

When choosing a research group, it is important to consider the group's research focus, the mentorship and support provided by the group leader, the availability of funding and resources, and the potential for publication and career advancement.

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