FAQs
How to find a STEM PhD?
Finding the right PhD can be difficult as the PhD application process is not uniform. As a starting point, findaphd.com is a great place for seeing what opportunities are posted. This is how I found my PhD and generally got an idea of what projects were available at the time. It may however be more beneficial to approach a supervisor upfront, especially if you have a clear area of research you would like to pursue. Don’t be afraid, if you don’t ask you don’t get. Twitter has also found itself as the primary social network for academia, get an account, follow pepole of interest and make inquiries.
Work/life balance?
This is a difficult one. Ultimately you are the captain of your own ship at the PhD level. You can do as much or as little as you want but as a piece of advice as someone who is nearly out of the other end, make sure you take breaks, prioritise self-care and your rest, ensure that you are pouring from a full cup and enjoy the process.
Deciding whether a PhD is for you?
PhD research isn’t for everybody. It takes a lot of dedication for not a lot of pay and for those 3 or 4 years, your research can become very consuming. If you are doing this solely for the title of Dr, stop reading here. Undertaking doctoral studies is however for the curious mind, those who are inquisitive, want to know more and advance knowledge in a particular field. You also don’t have to be a genius, a combination of hard work, good organisation and ingenuity will help you achieve your goals. Ultimately, you will know whether a PhD is for you but take the time to weigh up your options, analyse your field of interest and make an informed decision.
Black communities for support during a PhD?
Many of these communities did not exist at the beginning of my PhD but many of us as Black academics have seen the need to start initiatives and build community where our institutions fall short. Here are a few I think you should know about (via Twitter):
@ACRC_UK, @WARC_UK, @ThePhDHive, @BlackInNeuro, @BlackInCancer, @BlackInCardio, @BlackInChem
@BlkInData @BlkInGeoscience, @BlackinMH @BlackInNanoTech, @ICLBlackDocNet @UCLBlackDocNet
Considerations when choosing a PhD?
For me, supervision should be the main consideration when undertaking a PhD. Your supervisor is there to guide you through the project, develop you as a researcher and better you as an academic. Therefore, avoid the allure of big names & look for those who have a track record of developing great academics. Ask those who have previously been under this supervision, how it was, what were the expectations and ultimately be very selective about finding a research environment that will bring out the best in your abilities.
Getting experience
This is of vital importance, access and exposure to the research environment before undertaking your PhD can be the tipping factor in being accepted unto a programme. For undergraduates, summer programmes are a great way of gaining an insight into whether a research lab is where you want to be. From this, you can establish links and connections and build vital skills that will aid you on your PhD. Don’t be afraid to ask and reach out.