Written by Shayma, PhD Genomic Medicine
Pursuing a PhD might appear daunting, yet with the right guidance, it can be an enriching journey that refines your objectives and interests. Here’s an outline based on my experience with the PhD application at Imperial.
Why aim for a PhD?
Clarify your motivations for seeking a PhD. It represents a substantial commitment that should correspond with your aspirations. A PhD equips you to be an autonomous researcher, a capability I deem crucial for my career trajectory.
I was drawn to the flexibility and innovation present in academia. My enthusiasm for science flourishes when I delve into subjects that inspire me, hence I selected a PhD project that truly captivated my interest. The power to direct my project stands out as one of my favorite elements of pursuing a PhD.
Think about compiling a list of pros and cons to verify that a PhD suits you. What do you wish to achieve?
The PhD application journey
The procedure generally entails:
- Searching for a PhD
- Submitting the initial application
- Creating a shortlist
- Conducting interviews
- Receiving conditional or formal offers
- Deciding on funding
Interviews frequently delve into your motivations, comprehension of the project, prior research experience, and your problem-solving mindset. I prepared by revisiting my application, examining relevant literature, and contemplating my experiences to discuss them with assurance.
Locating a PhD
Identify the research that invigorates you, the settings in which you flourish, and the abilities you aim to acquire. Utilize resources such as:
- University sites, like Imperial’s for PhD opportunities
- Centralized PhD platforms like FindAPhD
- Pages of research groups and supervisors
- Academic networks and referrals
- Websites of funding bodies and doctoral training centers
My approach involved identifying a research group at Imperial that resonated with my interests, supported by funding from my home nation. I navigated through Imperial’s website, researcher directories, and research results.
As a Master’s student at Imperial, I also approached lecturers regarding appropriate research groups. I located my supervisor through suggestions from my MSc course leader.
Engage actively with everyone and collect as much feedback as attainable. I know a peer who discovered their project through a serendipitous discussion in a pub.
Funding your PhD
If self-funding isn’t feasible, investigate various funding avenues for PhDs, such as:
- Fully-funded research projects
- Studentships from UK Research Councils
- External funding from councils, charities, and business
- Scholarships and fellowships
- Grants and loans
Be aware of funding application deadlines and eligibility criteria, as these often vary from those of project applications. Imperial provides competitive funding options, so ensure your application aligns with the priorities of the funders.
PhD following a Master’s at Imperial
Advancing to a PhD at Imperial allows you to be familiar with the academic setting and develop connections with prospective supervisors, thereby facilitating the identification of suitable research groups and garnering lecturer support.
Crafting a PhD application
Typical PhD applications require:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Cover letter or personal statement
- Academic transcripts
- References
- Research proposal (for certain projects)
Be thorough and precise, supporting claims with examples. You are not expected to possess every skill at the application phase; emphasize pertinent experiences and how they will contribute to your PhD success.