Written by Shayma, PhD in Genomic Medicine
Pursuing a PhD can appear daunting, yet with appropriate support, it can evolve into a seamless and thrilling experience, aiding you in defining your objectives and passions. Here’s a general outline to assist you in locating a PhD that fits your needs, derived from my personal journey of discovering, selecting, and applying for a PhD at Imperial.
Reasons to pursue a PhD
Before embarking on your search, discern the reasons driving your desire for a PhD. A PhD represents a significant dedication, and it should align with your aspirations and interests. It offers the training necessary to become an autonomous researcher, a competency I deem crucial for my professional goals.
I was drawn to the creative freedom and flexibility that academia provides. My enthusiasm for science would diminish if I engaged in mundane topics or experiments, which is why I selected a PhD project that truly captivated me. The chance to guide my project is a notable benefit and one of my favorite elements of pursuing a PhD.
Think about creating a pros and cons list to affirm that a PhD is genuinely what you desire. What do you expect to achieve from it?
The PhD application journey
The application journey typically encompasses several steps:
- Searching for PhDs
- Submitting the initial application
- Shortlisting candidates
- Conducting interviews
- Receiving conditional or formal offers
- Decisions regarding funding
Interviews often emphasize your motivations, comprehension of the project, previous research experience, and your approach to overcoming obstacles. I prepared by reviewing my application, studying relevant literature, and contemplating my experiences to articulate them clearly and confidently.
Locating a PhD
Determine the research that excites you, the environment in which you excel, and the skills you aim to develop. Resources for finding a PhD include:
- University websites, like Imperial’s – review department pages for available PhD positions
- Centralized PhD portals and job boards such as FindAPhD
- Webpages of research groups and supervisors
- Academic networks and referrals from lecturers or supervisors
- Websites of funding bodies and doctoral training centers
My approach may be different from yours. I secured funding from my home country, which required me to identify a research group with a compelling project. I explored the Imperial website, discovered researchers and groups at Imperial, examined their research descriptions, and assessed their outputs.
During my Master’s program at Imperial, I also sought advice from my lecturers regarding suitable research groups. I found my current supervisor through a list provided by my MSc course leader.
Engage with everyone and collect as much information as you can. I know a fellow PhD student who stumbled upon their project through an unexpected chat in a bar.
Financing your PhD
If you’re not self-financed, investigate various options for PhD funding, such as:
- Fully-funded PhD projects announced by supervisors
- Studentships from UK Research Councils
- External funding from research councils, charities, and industry
- Scholarships and fellowships for specific backgrounds or research fields
- Loans and grants
Be aware of funding deadlines and eligibility requirements early on, as these often vary from