True, true. I applied for two last year, and got offered both, so hopefully I can carry on the same this time around.

Well, looks like it's moving to the top of the pile. The only drawback is that the guy I would like to do the PhD with hasn't definitely got funding for next year, and even if he does, I might not get the place...

Congratulations Dr Gibson! Get those bank account and passport details changed!

Mmmmm, Swedish model...

Mince pies, Christmas cake, Christmas pud, turkey, even sprouts. What's not to like about Christmas food?

I remember the area between the Rag Market and the Custard Factory as being somewhat grim, but yeah I agree, some gems. And a very strange looking Selfridges...

I have seen several supervisors at the University of Birmingham whose work I am interested in, and was wondering if anyon here has any experience of either the uni or the city, either as an undergrad, postgrad, or something else.

Before last weekend, I'd never been there. I went for an overnight stay there, to watch my beloved PNE, and was pretty impressed. In fact, it's provisionally joined my favourite other places in terms of city niceness and proximity to home - Manchester and Sheffield.

Still, I was only there for one night, so more info would be much appreciated, whether for or against Brum.

At least they're not reading the Grauniad

I have a friend doing a PhD in statistics. I really want to know how she does statistical tests on her results

I'd presume that she has at least equal rights over the joint proposal. That, plus the fact that I reckon it'd be easier for her to find funding than for you to (because of her standing) may make things quite hard for you. But if you really don't want to stay, then go and give it a try. Better than giving up...

I have. He was looking at polar solvents. Geddit? Ahem...

Never been, but bought a few of their players on Football Manager...

A new special someone? Father Christmas is it?

Oh dear oh dear. Time to close the thread maybe, before it turns into a "them and us" style outburst...

Oops, too late.

Surely if this woman doesn't "like" your work, that's her problem? If she feels that people have to be subordinate to her and not infringe on her own stuff then clearly she's living in a different world altogether.