So, funded phd applications open shortly. I know there is lots of competition for places so any tips much appreciated, specifically, does your grade matter or is it down to department contacts you have at the uni you apply to e.g course leaders giving the posts to their favourite students? I ask as I'm on course for distinction as asignments are in mid 80's (although dissertation not marked yet, it couldbe pants, lol) but on a p/t course I have limited contact with tutors and wonder if that's a disadvantage at application. Also do people just apply to any suitable phd at all unis or do you take into account the RAE? I've had my confidence getting a place knocked as my mgr at work basically thinks I'll struggle to get place.

Thanks in advance

:-)

Firstly, congratulations on the pregnancy. Does supervisor know you are pregnant?, has this new revelation of theirs come after your announcement? Pregnancy is to your advantage. Point out that you will be getting tired and that additional stress isn't good for baby and the thesis needs to take priority now or they risk you failing through non completion if you take the extra project, this looks bad on them. I wouldn't worry too much yet about future job, you don't even know how you will feel after having baby. You may find you're not emotinally ready to leave bubs in childcare to take up a post! I cried for whatseemed like an age each time i left mine to go to work but we needed the money! You find you have become a 'protected characteristic' as pregnant, lol. If they want to play hardball I'm afraid the balls in your court in the form of the equaliy act and they'll have to make sure they aren't firstly, discriminating against you, and secondly putting the health of you and baby at risk through stress. They also have a duty to do a risk assessment for you in the workplace but I'm not sure how this follows in your Phd, but they may be expectd to do the same. Be strong and assertive, that comes with being a mummy anyway and you'll soon find hormones and protective instincts make mummies ball breakers, lol. Good luck xxx