Thinking about a PhD

There are different types of PhD, some related to particular professions, such as engineering and medicine, and some that include a first year of study at masters level.

Research degrees differ from taught degrees. You'll be expected to:

• take responsibility for your own learning - no set course of study, curriculum, lectures or reading lists. 
• work independently - there may be other researchers in your department or school, but you'll have different specialisms, so the 'camaraderie' of an undergraduate or masters group will be absent.

Think seriously about your reasons for taking a PhD as research degrees are rewarding, but tough.  You will encounter periods of self doubt and difficulties. Being able to focus clearly on your original motivation and having a realistic view of what a PhD is will help

Good reasons to take a PhD include

• a genuine commitment to your research topic
• enjoyment of the research process
• knowing how and why it will enhance your career

Don't take a PhD because:

• you don't want to leave university yet
• you're unsure what you want to do
• your boyfriend/girlfriend is staying in Nottingham

Prospective students can be approached by a tutor or final year project supervisor if they consider the student has the academic qualities to undertake a PhD. If this happens to you, stop and think about what a PhD involves and if it really is what you want to do..

In a research degree you will not undertake a set course of study with a curriculum to follow, lectures to attend, supported by a reading and resource list.

You will have to take responsibility for managing your own learning and achieving your PhD. There are, of course, support systems in the form of your supervisor, other academic colleagues and peers but it is your responsibility to plan and manage your work, to seek help and support when you need it and to overcome difficulties and setbacks.

You will need to be prepared for what some call, “the loneliness of research”. While there may be other researchers in your department or school you will all be working on different topics so the “camaraderie” associated with an undergraduate or masters group of students is not replicated in a PhD.

These are some of the attributes that PhD students possess:

Some other things to think about:

• If you are an arts or humanities student, do you like working alone for long periods of time?
• If you are a scientist or engineer, you may have to fit in your experimental work around the needs of others in your group, this may mean an unusual working pattern
• Whatever your subject, can you take disappointment and rise to a challenge especially when your research does not go as you planned?
• Are you able to take criticism and defend your point of view, academic challenge is part of a PhD?
• Would it be an option for you to take a part-time PhD?

How did you become a PhD researcher?

My undergraduate degree was in psychology and I became very interested in research. For this reason, I decided to pursue an MPhil Psychology, which gave me the opportunity to conduct research on the topics I was most interested in. My MPhil focused on understanding language deficits in people with MS.

After my MPhil, I worked as a research assistant for two years, working with stroke survivors. These years were crucial to develop both my research and organisational skills, as well as gaining greater insight into the problems faced by people living with long term neurological conditions such as MS and stroke.

Now I am pursuing a PhD and looking forward to continuing to develop my skills as a researcher.

What advice would you have for someone considering a PhD?

The most important thing is do not give up! PhDs can be competitive, so if you are not successful at first, remember that there will always be new projects coming up. I’d recommend looking into opportunities to take part in work experience in research or related areas before pursuing the PhD.

It is also important for you to know what your preferences are. I think it is fine if you have doubts now; by doing some work experience you can gain a better idea of what you like and don’t like.

For anyone thinking about a role in academia, I would recommend contacting lecturers or professors working on topics that you enjoy. You can ask them if they have any projects advertised or coming up, or simply tell them that you are interested in their work, as they might be in need of a new researcher.

Vacancies 

There's no central admissions system for research degrees. University departments will advertise the vacancies they have for PhD research degrees and they will receive and assess those applications.

You may also see PhD opportunities advertised as part of a Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), Doctoral Training Centre (DTC) or Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT).

Advertisements will appear internally on departmental noticeboards and on university online vacancy bulletins (via the human resources department). You may be approached directly by a supervisor who has a research grant and has a vacancy, this does not automatically mean the place is yours but it is good to have the support of a supervisor.

Find a PhD - searchable database of PhD opportunities

Jobs.ac.uk - find PhD opportunities

University of Nottingham - studentships

Application process

There are some differences in the application procedure between academic disciplines but generally you will complete an application form and include a personal statement or an outline research proposal.

If shortlisted, you may attend an interview and if successful be offered a place. If you have not yet secured funding, then the offer will be subject to you being able to satisfy this requirement.

In the sciences, engineering and technology you may not need to submit a research proposal but will write a statement about why you wish to contribute to the area under investigation.

In the arts and social sciences you may need to generate a research idea and be able to present this as a proposal in your written application. 

FindAPhD - Information and advice on the application process

University of Nottingham - advice on writing a research proposal

Interviews

A PhD interview covers your interest in the research area and your commitment to a PhD. Some typical questions may be:

• What do you think a PhD entails?
• Tell me what led to your interest in and about any work you have already done in this area
• Why do you think you are suited to doing a PhD?

FindAPhD - PhD interview questions

Jobs.ac.uk - Top Ten PhD Interview Questions

Advice from UoN alumna, Jenna Hanmer

I realise now that the adviser had changed my attitude and approach to the interview. I had been so distracted by my insecurities that I lost sight of how exciting the opportunities were. My preparation paid off as I was offered funded places at both universities.

I would definitely recommend that students speak to the Careers team before attending an interview, especially if they are feeling anxious. The advisers can help you to make the most of your strengths so that you make a good impression during your interview.

The main sources of funding in the UK are: government, research councils and charities. 

These methods of funding are highly competitive, subject to eligibility requirements and sometimes reserved for international students.

If you're concerned about how you would fund a PhD, you may want to consider taking a part-time PhD. These usually take about six years and if you've already started your career, may be part of your professional development. 

Gov.uk - Information on the Doctoral Loan for perspective PhD students

Research Councils UK
Information on funding, availability and eligibility

University of Nottingham, Researcher Academy - Search for postgraduate scholarships

University of Nottingham - Funding opportunities for PhD students

The Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding 

Careers and Employability Service
Visit our site for postgraduate researchers

Prospects
Information on postgraduate study, research and funding options

Vitae
Main website for research