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How do you apply for a phd?

  • 17-02-2012 6:08pm
    #1
    py2006
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,844 ✭✭✭


    How do you go about applying to do a phd? I am a current mature masters student and while I have no idea of what is involved I am curious as to how you would go about it.

    Also, is it based on your results from degree and masters and your ability, level of intelligence etc?

    Thanks


Comments

  • #2
    cassElliot
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 158 ✭✭cassElliot


    Hi,


    All you really do is shop around for a supervisor, one that matches your research interests (thats very important when it comes to funding applications) get in contact when you feel you've identified an appropriate potential supervisor, then you'll have a few meetings and if they are interested in your research topic and you get/have good results they will offer to supervise you.


  • #3
    Tree
    Moderators, Science, Health & Environment Moderators Posts: 4,754 Mod ✭✭✭✭Tree


    You will also have to find funding. The supervisor may have a few bob, or you may have to find funding (eg. IRCSET/IRCHSS). There are structured programmes in some fields, now is the time to look around for application deadlines.

    Competition is getting fierce for places. Having a masters will help. They will consider your full academic record as well as other interests/experience you might have.


  • #4
    py2006
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,844 ✭✭✭py2006


    Thanks.

    I am currently have an idea but it's probably not enough for a phd. I may have to expand on it. I'm currently on a masters but Im by no means the most academic compared to some of the others.

    I'd love to lecture at 3rd level and develop my expertise.


  • #5
    GLaDOS
    Moderators, Regional East Moderators Posts: 23,238 Mod ✭✭✭✭GLaDOS


    I'm currently a fourth year undergrad and interested in going onto the PhD track myself. I've been told at this point my best bet is to email lecturers in the field I'm interested in (proteomics, though I'm willing to look at other options).

    In terms of a research proposal I haven't got much though. Would a potential supervisor have suggestions/help you develop one?

    Cake, and grief counseling, will be available at the conclusion of the test



  • #6
    cassElliot
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 158 ✭✭cassElliot


    In terms of a research proposal I haven't got much though. Would a potential supervisor have suggestions/help you develop one?



    depends on the supervisor... i met up with one and they wanted me to have a research proposal complete with methodology, logistics and expectations of how the process would go over 3 years.
    i met up with another who was more flexible and understood that the first year of your phd is about doing a lit review and narrowing down your idea. it just depends on who you talk to.
    thats the thing about phds.. if you go for an advertised one, you'll know exactly what you'll be doing. if you formulate an idea yourself, its a little less predictable.


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