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PhD: First Step

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  • 18-11-2008 3:07pm
    #1
    theprizelamb
    Closed Accounts Posts: 37 ✭


    I'm considering doing a PhD in Economics - I am interested in the area of poverty, inequality and welfare.

    I was just looking for some advise on how to go about formally approaching a supervisor. Email/phone? How much information would I need to provide him/her with initially?

    I have done reading in the area but have nothing prepared as such.

    Any advice would be great -

    Thanks


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    #2
    jw297
    Closed Accounts Posts: 413 ✭✭jw297


    Hi,

    I would suggest sending an email outlining your background, why you would like to carry out research in your chosen area and why you think they would be a suitable supervisor for that area of research.
    An email would probably be a good starting point and could be followed up by a phone call at a later stage - that gives them time to consider your proposal without being put on the spot.

    Alternatively, you may find specific projects already designed which you can apply for through a standard application process (findaphd.com can be useful for that). Apologies if you've already tried that route.

    A friend of mine recently attended a conference and approached someone in person who she wished to work with and got her foot in the door that way. I wrote to my undergraduate supervisor with only a very vague idea of the area I wanted to work in and we took it from there.
    There doesn't really seem to be a standard way of going about it!

    Just my personal opinion, but I reckon if you show that you have an idea of what you're talking about and have a good academic background, they will let you know if there is any possibility of working with them and give you further details of how to officially apply for a place. They may also point you towards someone else they know of who could take you on.

    Good luck!


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