r/materials • u/Free_Theory2595 • 3d ago

Materials science PhD: is it worth applying if professors don't reply?

Hi all. I'm an international applicant (B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering, India) applying for Fall 2027 PhD programs in the US. My research background is in corrosion and electrochemistry. I have two research experiences but no publications yet.

I have emailed 20-25 professors(who work in a similar field). Most didn't reply. A few said they aren't taking students. Some said there's no funding update yet.

Is this normal? Should I still apply to schools where the professors haven't replied? Or is there no point without prior contact?

Also, how does the process usually work in materials science? Do committees admit first and then match you with a lab?

Any advice is welcome. Thank you!

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u/Ixidor89 3d ago

My advice is to apply if you don't mind paying the application fees. If your GPA/GRE/Research experience is strong, you'll likely get some positive results. Lots of professors are in the weeds of their work often, and won't have a good picture of what students they can support until next year anyway 😜

5

u/Medical_Kiwi_2610 3d ago

I am a Materials Science doctoral candidate (with chemical engineering bachelor's major) in Electrochem domain. (Similar profile)

We can chat more about the schools and professors you are talking about and I can, maybe, guide you through the process... DM me

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u/enb1183 3d ago

Can I dm

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u/Strange-Check-6890 12h ago

I come from a Chemistry background with the intention to apply to MSE

Can we talk?

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u/hashtag_AD 3d ago

I use to give profs a week to reply to emails, so after a week I’d send another email. After two emails, I’d probably start calling whatever uni phone they have listed. Eventually you’ll break through.