I am a first year PhD student in computer science.The major areas my supervisor is working with are: Theoretical Computer Science (knowledge representation, uncertainty, etc.) and wireless sensor networks (applied Computer Science). I need to select from one of these areas to specialize. In fact I can work in, and have an interest in, both the fields. What I can not figure out is what will be most applicable in a future job in industry (especially as I am not looking to pursue a career in academia). I deeply appreciate any advice on this from you all.
Theoretical Computer Science or Sensor Networks
soft question;career;project topic
I would choose wireless sensor networks. Theoretical computer science is exactly what it sounds like - theoretical rather than practical, and not usually applicable in industry. One may claim that a background in theoretical computer science will help you find a job since it's more prestigious, but I doubt it.Whatever you do, don't try to focus on both fields. By the very nature of focus, it can't be applied to two things at once. Don't forget that there is life after PhD. If you're hoping to build on your speciality, you should spend your time specializing, however tempting it is to have a bit of anything.It might be that your supervisor switched from theory to sensor networks - this is just a hypothesis, a wild guess - because it's easier to get grant money this way. What holds true for your professor holds even truer for you.