Career prospects within the field of Nanotechnology

[Log]

Hello!

First let me introduce myself. I'm an engineering undergraduate in northern Europe. Ever since I started my engineering studies I've had an interest in Nanotechnology, which in my eyes is "the future" along with robotics, automation and more. I'm interested in theoretical mathematics and physics but it's the possible applications that motivate me, thus the interest in experimental physics and nanoscience.

Lately I've been having second thoughts about majoring (MSc) in this field however. The reason is that the job market seems small and uncertain from what I've seen. I have yet to find one company that is recruiting openly. I want to know what I'm getting into.

If I choose to major in this field I will be studying QM, Condensed Matter, instrumentation, measurement techniques, nano- & molecular electronics, semiconductors and MEMS. Experimental and applied physics basically.

My conclusion is that I should try to do my thesis at a company, do well and hopefully get to stay there after.

This is a "Will I get a job?" thread pretty much.

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

If you love it, do it. Nanotech is here to stay. It will only get bigger, but, you may have to move around to find the high tech companies that are using it.

http://sciencecareers.sciencemag.or...s_issues/articles/2007_09_21/caredit.a0700136

 

[TMFKAN64]

Can I momentarily laugh at the idea of nanotech getting bigger?

 

[Corpuscule]

I guess it may depend on where you want to work. I you are willing to move for example to China, then you shouldn't worry about getting a job. If you want to stick to some other location, then first check how nanotechnology industry is doing there, and what is the dynamics.

 

[Matrix0]

I can understand your concerns about the career prospects within the field of Nanotechnology. While it is true that the job market may not be as large as other fields, it is also a rapidly growing and evolving field with endless potential for innovation and impact. With your interest in theoretical mathematics and physics, you have a strong foundation for success in this field.

One thing to keep in mind is that many companies may not openly advertise for positions in Nanotechnology, as it is a specialized field and they may prefer to recruit through connections and referrals. It is important to network and make connections with professionals in the field, which can increase your chances of finding job opportunities.

Furthermore, the skills and knowledge gained through a major in Nanotechnology, such as QM, Condensed Matter, and instrumentation, are highly sought after in industries such as materials science, biotechnology, and electronics. This means that even if you do not end up working in a specifically Nanotechnology-related job, your skills and expertise will still be valuable in a variety of industries.

In terms of your thesis, doing it at a company is a great way to gain practical experience and make connections in the industry. It can also increase your chances of being hired by that company after graduation. However, it is important to keep an open mind and explore different opportunities, as there may be other companies or research institutions where you can also gain valuable experience and make important connections.

In summary, while the job market for Nanotechnology may not be as large as other fields, it is a rapidly growing and evolving field with endless potential for innovation and impact. With your interest and background in theoretical mathematics and physics, you have a strong foundation for success in this field. Networking, gaining practical experience, and keeping an open mind can all increase your chances of finding a job in Nanotechnology.