Written by Shayma, PhD in Genomic Medicine
Embarking on a PhD journey can feel daunting, yet with the right support, it can evolve into a seamless and thrilling experience, aiding in the definition of your aspirations and interests. Here’s a broad overview of how to locate a PhD tailored to you, drawn from my own experiences in discovering, choosing, and applying for a PhD at Imperial.
Motivations for Pursuing a PhD
Before diving into the search for a PhD, it’s crucial to comprehend your reasons for wanting one. A PhD represents a considerable commitment, so be certain it resonates with your aspirations and passions. It equips you to become an autonomous researcher, a competency I find vital for my career goals.
In addition to technical expertise, I was drawn to the research autonomy and innovation that academia provides. My enthusiasm for science would diminish if I were to engage in mundane subjects or experiments, so I selected a PhD project that genuinely captivates me. The opportunity to direct my own project is a significant benefit and one of my favorite features of pursuing a PhD.
As straightforward as it may sound, I recommend creating a pros and cons list prior to embarking on your PhD search to confirm it’s something you genuinely wish to pursue—what do you anticipate a PhD will bring to your journey?
The PhD Application Journey
The application journey typically encompasses several key steps:
- Searching for PhD opportunities
- Submitting an initial application
- Shortlisting candidates
- Interviews
- Conditional or formal offers extended
- Funding decisions
Interviews often concentrate on your motivations, comprehension of the project, past research experience, and problem-solving approaches. In preparing for interviews, I revisited my application, engaged with pertinent literature, and contemplated my experiences to articulate them clearly and confidently.
Locating a PhD
Identifying a project necessitates comprehending which areas of research excite you, the type of environment you excel in, and the skills you wish to acquire. Resources for discovering your PhD encompass:
- University websites like Imperial’s—explore departmental pages for available PhD positions
- Centralized PhD platforms and job boards such as FindAPhD
- Research group and supervisor websites
- Academic networks and insights from instructors or supervisors
- Websites of funding bodies and doctoral training centers
My application experience may vary from yours. For my PhD, I secured funding from my home nation, necessitating that I find a research group engaged in a project of interest. I navigated the Imperial website, discovered lists of researchers and research teams at Imperial, reviewed their research descriptions, and examined their outputs.
While seeking PhDs as a Master’s student at Imperial, I also consulted with lecturers regarding appropriate research groups. I identified my current project supervisor from a list shared by my MSc course leader.
The essential part is to communicate with EVERYONE and gather as much input as possible. I know a fellow PhD candidate who discovered their project by conversing with a stranger at a pub who connected them with their current principal investigator (PI) and PhD supervisor.
Funding Your PhD
If you are not funding yourself, numerous funding options are available.