As far as I'm aware it would only apply to new graduates - similarly when they changed the tuition fee levels (so existing students would carry on as when they started).

However, I think a graduate tax is going to be highly unlikely.

Hi Zarathustra, your question is actually quite difficult to answer.

It's true that internationally recognised universities carry weight but a lot of it is based on local knowledge. So if you want to get a job in Pakistan afterwards, the question will be, do employers there view your university as a good one if you have a PhD from it?

If you want to work abroad, then it's likely to be viewed the same as any other university really, but the quality of your work will be what makes you employable. Have you published at all? Been to conferences and presented your work? Do you have skills you've learned that will be in demand?

You could try and find a more reputable university but it depends what you want to do with your PhD that will decide whether it's a good idea or not.

I would imagine there are people doing a PhD in Biomechanics in London, yes.

Oh Claudia that's great news!

It'll all be fine, I'm sure of it (tree)

Well if anyone does arrange a get together I'd be interested to come alone, I'm based between midlands and London.

I did try many many moons ago to arrange a "forum meet" from here but it never happened fro some reason which was a shame, as lots of people were up for it.

Hey, welcome back Jepson, hope you had a great time!

I definitely would get the material sorted out, it's too easy to let time go by and then not get it all sorted. Do it even if it's to just put it aside and come back to in a week or two after conference.

What about a nice mug? I got my nephews each a mug when I was godparent to them with an inscription on.

I chose that because I still have a mug from my godparents!

I know 3 people who got a 2:2 in their degree and have a PhD, all from "good" universities. A PhD is as much about determination and passion as it as about sheer intellect. And a degree and a PhD are such different beasts anyway.

I have met a couple of people from here and also have another few on Facebook. It's nice to bring people together.

Although I am still yet to meet Clara van der Akker :-(

Oh my gosh, even the spammers are getting in on the act, I may have to fart with laughter (sprout)

I fart everywhere, I seem to be a naturally windy person (up)

You could take them to the small claims court

http://www.hmcourts-service.gov.uk/infoabout/claims/index.htm

Oh Satchi, I am in absolute hysterics, my mum has just come in to see why I'm laughing so much!

No need to apologise at all... better out than in I say! And yes, silent but deadly is often the way.

Oh gosh, I think I need to lie down now from all that laughter!

Yes, if you're interested in the UK I could tell you a list as long as my arm. US I know nothing.

Hi Slowmo,

Firstly, good idea to refer to your supervisors - make sure you keep copies of everything just in case anything dubious comes from it.

I used to have people often email me about my work (although my work wasn't remotely contentious) and there are a few telltale signs - if they use a specific email address (i.e. a .ac.uk or one where you can trace the origins) and they explain who they are, then they're probably okay. If they use a disposable email (hotmail, yahoo etc) and say nothing about themselves, just best not to respond at all. You don't have to respond to everyone after all!