Mooses Mehine, 26, is a reseacher at the University of Helsinki and works in theoretical physics. He agreed to give us a few tips on a career in research and enlighten us about what he does.
What drove you to study physics?
My teacher from high school (yläaste) recommended that I should pursue a career in theoretical physics, and that is what I have been doing ever since.
How do you feel that the research work differs from other jobs? What kinds of people would you recommend it to?
I think that I started researching too early, I am still a MSc student. It is a job, which is project oriented and takes a lot of time. Since the beginning of research (whatever you do as a PhD), isn’t paid much, considering the amount of investment (education) you put into it, I believe it is driven by a scientific passion. So I would recommend it to people that have a passion for science.
Can you briefly tell us what you do in the field of physics?
It is applied quantum mechanics on the molecular level, used to describe properties of molecules.
And now can you explain the same in layman’s terms?
You sit in front of a computer, give input to a QM program and get output that tells you properties of a molecule.
What do you do on your free time when you’re not busy being a science wiz?
I mostly play games, or play floorball or do some other physical activity. I also like to read fantasy or science fiction.
As a physics major, do people joke about your chosen field?
From time to time people compare me to Sheldon Cooper from “the Big Band theory”.
What advice would you give to people who are thinking of pursuing research work?
First after all, the fundamental courses are the basis for everything, so study the basics properly. Secondly, there are a lot of research projects out there, so choose a project that you are (at least partially) interested in. Failing means that you can either try again or choose another project that interests you. Despite that some geniuses are professors at 25, I think that it is ok to finish a PhD around 30 or later.