Career path for physics (Pure research)

[Richa Sharma]

Hi guys! Sorry I'm new so the questions might seen a bit vague but I'm unclear about a lots of things
I want to make a career purely in physics, I'd prefer cosmology and theoretical physics because that was I was so interested in from beginning. But I've heard the career in theoretical physics is tough/more like unstable and I should go for experimental.
If I go for experimental physics what huge difference will it be from theoretical one or it is data analysis majorly.
And if I dare to chose theoretical physics over it what kind of projects can one do in undergraduate level in Quantum Mechanics.

 

[Orodruin]

Physics research in general (both theoretical and experimental) is a tough career choice and there are several hurdles before you can get any kind of job security and many depending on pure luck in addition to your own ability. Getting admitted into a PhD program is just the first bottleneck, only a minority of PhDs get a fixed position in academia in the end. I am not saying this to discourage you, only to make sure you know what you are getting into.

Given the above, I think it is essential that you really enjoy what you are doing so do not pick something that you are not excited about. That being said, you are still an undergraduate according to your profile and I think you will have some time still before you pass the point of no return with regards to whether to go experimental or theoretical.

 

[td21]

Dear Richa,
The suggested career paths are as follows:
1. Theoretical physics:
QM+EM+SM+CM+SR+GR+GroupTh+Real analysis+Complex analysis----->Grad school---->Post-doc--->Find jobs
2. Experimental physics:
QM+EM+SM+CM+SR+Electronics+Laser&optics+Solid state------->Grad school------->Post-doc--->Find jobs

I hope you can find the above useful. Like you, I am equally interested in both experimental and theoretical physics so I took basically all courses in the department encompassing both experimental and theoretical physics in my undergrad. My dream is to be a physicist. I wish I can get admitted into physics PhD this year.

td21

 

[Richa Sharma]

Dear Richa,
The suggested career paths are as follows:
1. Theoretical physics:
QM+EM+SM+CM+SR+GR+GroupTh+Real analysis+Complex analysis----->Grad school---->Post-doc--->Find jobs
2. Experimental physics:
QM+EM+SM+CM+SR+Electronics+Laser&optics+Solid state------->Grad school------->Post-doc--->Find jobs

I hope you can find the above useful. Like you, I am equally interested in both experimental and theoretical physics so I took basically all courses in the department encompassing both experimental and theoretical physics in my undergrad. My dream is to be a physicist. I wish I can get admitted into physics PhD this year.

td21

That is great you took all those courses...
Thank you so much! And good luck, I hope you make it.

 

[Matrix0]

Hello! It's great to hear that you are interested in pursuing a career in physics. I can provide some insights and advice on the career path for pure research in physics.

First of all, it's important to understand that both theoretical and experimental physics are equally important and valuable in advancing our understanding of the universe. While theoretical physics focuses on developing and testing theories and models, experimental physics involves conducting experiments and analyzing data to test these theories.

In terms of career prospects, it is true that there may be more job opportunities in experimental physics, as many industries and research institutions require data analysis skills. However, if your passion lies in theoretical physics, it is important to follow your interests and pursue what you love. With dedication and hard work, you can definitely have a successful career in theoretical physics.

If you do decide to pursue experimental physics, some of the differences you may encounter include a focus on practical skills such as designing and conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and writing technical reports. On the other hand, theoretical physics may involve more mathematical and analytical skills, as well as computer simulations and theoretical calculations.

In terms of undergraduate level projects in quantum mechanics, there are many exciting and interesting topics you can explore. Some examples include studying the properties of quantum entanglement, investigating quantum computing algorithms, or exploring the applications of quantum mechanics in nanotechnology.

Overall, my advice would be to follow your interests and passions in physics, whether it be in theoretical or experimental research. With dedication and hard work, you can have a successful and fulfilling career in either path. Best of luck in your academic and career pursuits!