Written by Shayma, PhD Genomic Medicine
Embarking on a PhD application can feel daunting and protracted. Yet, with the right support, this process can transform into a seamless and even thrilling experience, aiding you in clarifying your objectives and passions. Here’s a general outline for discovering a PhD program that fits you, drawn from my own journey of locating, selecting, and applying for a PhD at Imperial.
Why aim for a PhD?
Prior to initiating your PhD search, it’s essential to comprehend your motivations for pursuing one. A PhD requires a significant commitment, and ensuring it resonates with your aspirations and passions is vital. This degree equips you with the skills necessary to become an independent researcher, which is fundamental for the career path I intend to follow.
In addition to the technical expertise, I was drawn to the creative freedom and innovation that academia provides. My enthusiasm for science could only flourish if I engage with subjects that intrigue me and carry out experiments that captivate my interest, so I selected a PhD project that I was sincerely keen to investigate. The ability to steer my project in my preferred direction is also a substantial advantage for me and ranks among my favorite elements of pursuing a PhD.
Thus, as straightforward as it might appear, I recommend creating a pros and cons list regarding a PhD before you embark on your search to confirm it’s an endeavor you genuinely wish to pursue – what benefits do you believe a PhD will offer you?
The PhD application journey
The application journey generally consists of several phases:
- Searching for a PhD
- Submitting your initial application
- Being shortlisted
- Participating in interview(s)
- Receiving conditional or official offers
- Making funding choices
Interviews often center on your reasons for applying, your comprehension of the project, your previous research background, and your approach to overcoming obstacles. As I was preparing for my interviews, I revisited my application materials, reviewed relevant literature, and contemplated my experiences to articulate them clearly and confidently during the discussions.
Identifying a PhD
Discovering a project first necessitates understanding what type of research intrigues you, what kind of environment you excel in, and what competencies you wish to develop during the PhD. Here are some resources you can utilize to locate your PhD:
- University websites, such as Imperial’s – check specific departmental pages where they list their available PhD positions
- Centralized PhD databases and job platforms like FindAPhD
- Research group and supervisor webpages
- Academic networks and suggestions from instructors or supervisors
- Funding agency and doctoral training center websites
My application experience might slightly vary from yours. For my PhD, I secured funding from my home country, so my primary task was to identify a research group engaged in a project that piqued my interest. To achieve this, I navigated through the Imperial website, located lists of researchers and research groups at Imperial, reviewed their research descriptions, and examined their research outputs.
As I was a Master’s student at Imperial during my PhD search, I also consulted my professors regarding which research groups they believed would align well with my interests. I discovered my current project supervisor from a compilation of research groups provided by my MSc course leader.
The crucial element is to engage with EVERYONE and seek as much feedback as you can get. I personally know a fellow PhD student who discovered their project by conversing with a stranger in a pub who subsequently connected them with their principal investigator (PI) and PhD supervisor.