Research Areas for PhD in Physics & Industry R&D

In summary, Arsenic&Lace says that quantum physics may be a good research area to pursue if you want to find a position in an industry's R&D. They also say that data science skills are in high demand, and that computational astrophysics or biophysics may not sound very relevant to industry, but you learn how to manage and analyze large data sets in both fields.
  • #1
Bassirou
6
0
Which research areas for a PhD in Physics may lead to good positions in the Industry's R&D? Please, excuse my English and thank you for any suggestion.
 
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  • #2
Just my opinion, I think Quantum Physics (I am thinking of optics) may have a lot of potential.
 
  • #3
The most accurate advice you could get would be by means of contacting the R&D departments of the kind of industries that interest you.
 
  • #4
Among other things, semiconductors, lasers, optical design, fiber sensor.
 
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Likes Niflheim
  • #5
Condensed matter, some areas of high energy and superconductivity, and a few quantum mechanical areas are most relevant to what companies care about.
 
  • #6
Thanks guys for your suggestions. They are well noted and appreciated. I am sorry for my belated reply due to the jet lag. I made my post just before going to bed and I am in GMT +9h.
 
  • #7
General data science skills are also in high demand. Computational astrophysics or biophysics may not sound very relevant to industry, but you learn how to manage and analyze large data sets in both fields and this can be put to good use working for a place like Facebook or on Wall Street.
 
  • #8
Thank you Arsenic&Lace and to all the others.
 
  • #9
No problem, hope it helps! Out of curiosity, what are you doing right now? An undergraduate student?
 
  • #10
Yes it helps Niflheim, thank you. I am an unrolled MSc in Physics holder specialised in Solid State-NMR. I also have ezpereince in data processing and modeling. I am looking for a PhD in Physics in a promising area.
 
  • #11
*ezpereince=experience. Oups!
 
  • #12
I do not know if it is the right place to say it but I would like to say that I am desperatly looking for a PhD position in experimental physics. I am from Africa and currently in South-Korea where I got my MSc in Physics 2 years ago. However here the system is not suitable for me (among many reasons: the lack of funding or financial support from Professors and mostly the communication problem between colleague students shy to speak in English and my low Korea level). I hope some members of this forum from some research groups having an open position may help me out here.
 

1. What are some popular research areas for a PhD in Physics?

Some popular research areas for a PhD in Physics include condensed matter physics, particle physics, astrophysics, quantum mechanics, and nuclear physics.

2. What is the difference between academic research and industry R&D in physics?

Academic research in physics focuses on advancing fundamental knowledge and understanding in the field, while industry R&D is typically applied research that aims to develop and improve technologies for practical use in industries such as technology, energy, and healthcare.

3. Can a PhD in Physics lead to a career in industry R&D?

Yes, a PhD in Physics can lead to a career in industry R&D. Many companies, particularly in the technology sector, value the analytical and problem-solving skills of individuals with a PhD in Physics.

4. Are there any specific industries that heavily rely on physics research?

Many industries rely on physics research, such as energy (e.g. renewable energy), telecommunications, healthcare (e.g. medical imaging), aerospace, and defense. Additionally, the technology sector heavily relies on physics research for advancements in areas such as semiconductors, optics, and materials science.

5. What are some potential job titles for someone with a PhD in Physics and industry R&D experience?

Some potential job titles for someone with a PhD in Physics and industry R&D experience include research scientist, R&D engineer, data scientist, technology consultant, and product manager.

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