changing of research field from MS to PhD

[Mystic]

Hi there

I would like to know what is the possibility of changing field of specialization from MS to PhD.

I am going for Graphics now but my real intention is Bioinformatics which I hope to do once I am finished with my MS.
Do the Universities prefer or recommend prior experience in the research field for which they give admits ?

I would be happy if someone shares experiences with me in this regard

With Regards
Mystic

[peiann]

Mystic,

I would think that phd programs in bioinformatics prefer experience (research) in this field - especially for top programs. However, considering bioinformatics is such a multidisciplinary field, research in many areas, perhaps including graphics would be fine. The best way to know for sure is to give a program you're interested in a call and ask them directly. My research isn't directly bioinformatics ( I'm currently working in imaging ) but I got into quite a few bioinformatics programs for this coming year. Imaging informatics is also a minor subset of the biomedical informatics umbrella.

IMHO I think that a successful applicant for a bioinformatics program would have to show via classwork or research a good foundation of certain fields, namely biology, statistics, computer science and math. They would also have to have some sort of research / work (preferably research) experience that that shows an ability to do research. The MS should definitely help btw. Good luck!

[Dhruv]

Hi Mystic,

As Peiann pointed out bioinformatics is a multi-disciplinary field but any program has its own set of course requirements which can be waived if your work or related experience. If you can scout for a related project or an internship or attend related workshops where you can meet people workin in the field that would be great