Star struck

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tweetie_brid
Posts: 63
Joined: Wed May 30, 2012 7:59 pm

Star struck

Post by tweetie_brid » Wed Sep 05, 2012 2:48 am

When I started my physics undergraduate work I wanted to do research in superconductivity. However lately I have been involved with the local amateur astronomer group. I think I want to go to grad school for cosmology or astrophysics now.

I probably have a better chance of finding a job if I study superconductivity and condensed matter physics. But I am really "star struck" with astrophysics. Kind of like when you are a little kid and first get interested in science, and all you can think about is how cool this stuff is.


I probably should study condensed matter physics, but I will probably opt for astrophysics or cosmology.


I dont want to become a professor though, what are you guys thoughts?

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twistor
Posts: 1529
Joined: Thu Apr 13, 2006 2:47 pm

Re: Star struck

Post by twistor » Wed Nov 21, 2012 10:08 pm

You don't want to become a professor? There's not a market for industrial astrophysicists so don't expect to work in your field after you graduate unless you want endless post-docs or if you're lucky an appointment without teaching duties.

bfollinprm
Posts: 1203
Joined: Sat Nov 07, 2009 11:44 am

Re: Star struck

Post by bfollinprm » Wed Nov 21, 2012 10:38 pm

tweetie_brid wrote:When I started my physics undergraduate work I wanted to do research in superconductivity. However lately I have been involved with the local amateur astronomer group. I think I want to go to grad school for cosmology or astrophysics now.

I probably have a better chance of finding a job if I study superconductivity and condensed matter physics. But I am really "star struck" with astrophysics. Kind of like when you are a little kid and first get interested in science, and all you can think about is how cool this stuff is.


I probably should study condensed matter physics, but I will probably opt for astrophysics or cosmology.


I dont want to become a professor though, what are you guys thoughts?
I know lots of astrophysicists (theory and experiment) whose skills have translated well to industry. You can also get a job at a telescope as an astrophysicist, which is different than becoming a professor.

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Andromeda
Posts: 127
Joined: Wed Dec 10, 2008 3:17 pm

Re: Star struck

Post by Andromeda » Fri Nov 30, 2012 6:59 am

I am of the firm opinion that life is too short to do things you don't actually want to do. So if you want to do astronomy instead then do it, no reason at your point of life to not do so.

Thing is btw the majority of people who get doctorates in astronomy don't become professors, as it's just such a competitive field. Here is a good overview of other things astronomers do- http://www.jobsforastronomers.com/



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