Photonics PhD... I am confused :(

[Taurnil]

Dear ppl,

 

I would like to ask your piece of advice, help, experience... for a PhD i got accepted in but I don't know if I will accept it or not.

 

My bachelor background is in Electrical engineering and then my master is in MEMS. During the master, I took selective courses related to nanotechnology, processes etc and I have to say that I really enjoy all the topics related to nanowires fabrication, carbon nanotubes, other nanostructures, nanoimprint lithography etc

Unfortunately, it was only 2 related courses, offered by my faculty... My master thesis was about biomems, and my experience as research assistant was about sensors, photovoltaics etc. Unfortunately there was never an open place available in the Nanotechnology laboratory, so I couldn't get a jos as a research assistant there...

 

The past months I applied to various PhD's related to all these topics (nanotubes for different applications, graphene based electronics etc), I got rejected (in same cases the feedback was that I had limited experience in these topics) and I got accepted only in ONE related to optoelectronics/photonics. I attended courses related to it and I can say that the courses and the topic of the PhD thesis intrigue me like 60-70%.

 

So the question that tortures me is either to start this PhD topic since there is no other option and deal with a project that doesn't excite me so much in the beginning (maybe in the future it will, maybe not) or apply the next year for other topics related to the things I want and like, with again low chances to get accepted...

 

Thanx!!

 

Vittorio

Edited July 4, 2013 by Taurnil

[zapster]

If you do not take up this offer, is there anything you can do in one year (research experience, publish, internship in the area etc.) that would materially increase your chances of of being admitted to one of your top choice programs?

[Taurnil]

Dear Latte, yes there is. I can either work in a company as an intern, or try to find another relevant laboratory to gain more research experience! If there is no open place in the Nanotechnology laboratory, I don't know if any additional research experience will increase the chances...

[yhk331]

I would definitely say not to go into something you don't like, especially when it comes to PhD. It is a long program. Imagine yourself doing something you don't like for at least 4 years. If you plan to a faculty job, you are better off going for something you like. You have to find some adviser to discuss this with. I think it is a serious issue.