Deciding Between Nanoscience & Biophysics: Advice Needed

  • Thread starter BrightMoonlight
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In summary, the speaker is comparing their offers for a master's degree in solid state physics or nanophysics. They have a scholarship offer for a nanoscience program, but one of the physics departments offering admission has a separate curriculum in biophysics that the speaker is now considering. They are unsure if a PhD in neuroscience would be too much of a deviation from their physics background, but are interested in the field. They have two options: choosing the nanoscience program and focusing on solid state physics, or choosing the unfunded physics program and potentially taking courses in biophysics for their thesis. They are seeking advice and mention that they would prefer a funded offer. The other speaker in the conversation also considered neuroscience research and is unsure
  • #1
BrightMoonlight
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Hi,

Up to yesterday, I have been comparing my offers (master's degree) having solid state physics/ nanophysics in mind. Since I have an offer with scholarship from a good nanoscience program, I was thinking of accepting that. My other offers are physics.
One of the physics departments which offered me admission (not funding) has a separate curriculum in biophysics for those interested/curious. I hadn't thought about it seriously before, since I had mostly concentrated on solid state physics.

I need to accept one of the offers asap, but I know little about biophysics. It's the thought of doing a PhD in neuroscience (the whole "studying the brain" thing) that seems interesting. It "sounds" interesting, but I don't know much about it. Seems it would be too much deviation from my physics background. But (some of the) people working in the field seem to have (bio)physics background.
It seems the quantum mechanics in solid state will be replaced by statistical mechanics and biology.

I have two options:
1. Choose nanoscience program. Go into solid state physics.
2. Choose the unfunded physics program. Take some courses in biophysics. In case I liked it, I could do my thesis in that. If not, I could do my thesis in solid state.

I would be grateful if anyone has any advice.
 
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  • #2
I would take one of the offers with funding, unless you're well off.
 
  • #3
Student100 said:
I would take one of the offers with funding, unless you're well off.

Thanks for your reply.
I did the same thing. I don't know anything about how neuroscience research is. It seems like neuroscience is mostly biology, and biology is totally different from my own background.
I hope I did the right thing.
 

1. What is the difference between nanoscience and biophysics?

Nanoscience is the study of materials and phenomena at the nanoscale, which is typically between 1 and 100 nanometers. Biophysics is the application of physics principles to biological systems, such as the study of how molecules and cells function. While both fields involve the study of small-scale systems, nanoscience focuses on materials and biophysics focuses on living organisms.

2. Which field offers more career opportunities?

Both nanoscience and biophysics offer a wide range of career opportunities in various industries, such as healthcare, technology, and research. The field that offers more career opportunities may depend on your specific interests and skills. It is important to research job prospects and consider your personal goals when deciding between these two fields.

3. What kind of education is required for a career in nanoscience or biophysics?

Most careers in nanoscience or biophysics require at least a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as physics, chemistry, or biology. However, for more advanced or specialized positions, a graduate degree, such as a Master's or PhD, may be necessary. It is important to research the specific education requirements for your desired career path.

4. Can I work in both nanoscience and biophysics?

Yes, it is possible to work in both nanoscience and biophysics, as there is overlap between the two fields in areas such as biomaterials and nanomedicine. Many scientists may have a background in one field and collaborate with researchers in the other field to further their research. However, it may be more common to specialize in one field or the other.

5. What skills are important for success in nanoscience and biophysics?

Some important skills for success in nanoscience and biophysics include a strong understanding of scientific principles, critical thinking, problem-solving, and attention to detail. Additionally, skills in areas such as data analysis, computer programming, and communication can also be beneficial in these fields. It is also important to have a passion for scientific inquiry and a drive to constantly learn and innovate.

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