optforfirst

I guess I need to clarify my question. I guess my question is: what is the life structure of a researcher in these fields? Is there a principle investigator who has a "physics lab" who may help contribute to his field through grants, or do I need to go for tenure at a university/move to a particle collider to be at the top of the research?

Hi guys! First timer here looking for advice. I am currently working in translational research at lab in one of the top cancer hospitals in the world... the problem is although I love immunology I think my true love is physics research. I have been doing physics thought experiments my entire life and have always excelled at math. My problem is I know very little about the general research field besides CERN, LHC, and industry... I'd like to stay in the United States to do research. Could anyone shed light on this field? I love (in order): Cosmology & Gravitation Quantum Gravity Particle Physics Superstring Theory Thanks a ton!!