I want to help revolutionize particle physics ! I know one trait, creativity, is a big one.. Any relevant thoughts, tips, etcetera would be great!
2007-09-17 06:56:12 · 5 answers · asked by justanotherfreak 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Like all great people, they become insane and turn gay!
2007-09-17 07:06:19 · answer #1 · answered by kendavi 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I agree with Meg. One needs a lot of focus and dedication to the field. Not only do you need to know lots of math and programming but you need to have a great grasp of the theory involved, especially if you want to revolutionize particle physics.
Particle or High Energy physics is not a easy field. One usually works with lots of collaborators if one is an experimentalist, doing projects at CERN, Fermilab, SLAC, or similar facility.
If one is a theorist, one needs great mathematical background and understanding of complex theory.
One can always read the journal articles to see if any aspect of particle physics catches one's fancy.
Skills Needed:
Math (Beyond Tensor Calculus and Probability Theory)
Programming (For simulation and general use)
Physics (Of course!)
Electronics and Mechanics (For experimental work)
Personality (As previous posters wrote that these may even border on the crazy side):
Focus
Diligence
Great Work Ethic
Love/Interest in the research. <--- You can't be revolutionary if you don't care about it or burn out or just do it for the glory.
Tips: Go get a B.S. in physics. Get a PhD from a good school from a good professor that has great projects that can help you revolutionize particle physics.
If you can do that... you are halfway there!
2007-09-17 14:19:14 · answer #2 · answered by Vicente 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
It's hard to imagine what personality traits Newton and Einstein would have had in common.... but how about: genuine curiosity, logical insight and mathematical rigor, and creativity.
2007-09-17 15:10:43 · answer #3 · answered by ZikZak 6 · 1⤊ 2⤋
Obsessive about work and physics.
2007-09-17 14:08:22 · answer #4 · answered by meg 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Nasty nerds due to concentrating on their ideas to the exclusion of others.
2007-09-17 14:10:12 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 2⤋