Changing fields fresh out of grad school

[turin]

Sorry, I just realized that this should be in the Career Guidance forum.

I find the topic of my recent dissertation uninspiring, and I want to go into something completely different for my career. My dissertation was on very specialized and superficial analysis techniques, but I would much rather get my hands dirty, and at a much deeper level. I want to actually see the entire scientific process at work at the cutting edge. I thought that I would realize what I wanted to do with my life by the time I graduated, but now I seem to have less of a clue than ever; I just know what I don't want to do.

I have also developed a dangerously negative attitude towards theoretical physics.

Any advice? I certainly hope that I don't need to go back to school.

 

[Choppy]

There's no reason why you can't aim for a post-doc in a different field. To my knowledge it's reasonably common for people to get jobs in fields that are different from that of their graduate studies.

The trick at this point is figuring out what skills you have to market and how you can use them to get your foot in the door. The only way I know how to figure out what you really like is by trial and error, unfortunately. So you may have to try a few new fields before you settle on something you really like.

 

[Mene]

I can understand your desire to change fields fresh out of grad school. It is not uncommon for individuals to realize they have a different passion or interest than what their dissertation focused on. However, it is important to carefully consider your options before making a decision to change fields.

Firstly, I would recommend exploring different career options within your current field. Sometimes, a change in research topic or environment can reignite your passion and interest in your field of study. You can also consider collaborating with researchers in other fields to gain a broader perspective and potentially discover new interests.

If you are still set on changing fields, it is important to thoroughly research and understand the new field you are considering. This may involve networking with professionals in the field, attending conferences and workshops, and reading relevant literature. This will give you a better understanding of the field and help you determine if it is the right fit for you.

Additionally, it is important to consider the skills and knowledge you have gained from your current field and how they can be applied to your new field. This can make the transition smoother and give you a competitive edge.

It is also important to have a positive attitude towards your current field, even if you have decided to change fields. Negative attitudes can hinder your progress and prevent you from fully exploring your potential in your current field.

Overall, it is not necessary to go back to school to change fields, but additional training or education may be beneficial in some cases. It is important to carefully evaluate your options and make a well-informed decision. Remember, it is never too late to change career paths and pursue your passion. Good luck!