Thanks guys, some good advice, love your approach smoobles, that made me chuckle a little because I just imagined that moment you were thinking... Oh dear god, what's this all about! Lol

And yes hazy I have an academic/research goal in mind, not necessarily in the uk - but your point about the daily tasks, that's the key point I think, the skills in medical genetics will be applicable in other disciplines, and learning the skills and techniques is the crucial thing to me! So yeah might be the best option...

Hi traveller,

Sorry your having this problem and although I can't relate personally, I can maybe offer some advice?

I think they key to talking to people, is first and foremost - just LISTEN!

Most people do want to be heard and if you can be a reactive listener, then they and you will relax in each others company. Companionship, friendship and relationships all develop when you can read between the lines and just pick up on the signals that people give off. If you sense someone's unease, or you blush like mad, just try and laugh about it "I'm sorry for blushing! I'm just a fired up person... Haha..." Or " thanks for not mentioning my blushing... I wish I could ignore it too!,, lol".

I know this may seem a little silly, and I don't mean to belittle, but from experience, dealing with company execs, police, solicitors, academics and the likes (professional, I mean) I have found humility, a jovial manner and a relaxed approach to be most beneficial....

I hope this helps u somewhat, just remember that confidence can be worn like a jacket! (Mental or otherwise!)

Thanks Jekyll!

This was kinda the impression I was getting from a few people I have spoken too... Where there is no or very limited funding in 'your' area, it may be necessary to study in a subject that is applicable in many aspects but just not maybe the subject that you love!

Tough decisions I just hope that I will have the wherewithal to finish a PhD in a subject that's not my real desire, but gets me close enough to the same goal, or thereabouts!


cheers!

I am in the process, and have submitted a few phd applications for this year, mainly in the area of medical genetics. I have a 1st in forensic science and in the process of completing a MSc in a biological forensic discipline.

I guess my real question is should I sacrifice my real desire to pursue a forensic DNA type degree and accept that a medical genetic PhD will offer valuable technical and research skills, using some similar processes and of course be fully funded?

The main problem is the sheer lack of funding in the forensic area... I have been corresponding with profs in various institutions throughout the UK for several months, and they do tell a similar tale of inadequate funding and difficulty in generating research phds in this area.... I was offered a DNA forensic post with a well known uk group after my BSc, and am considering applying after my MSc, and trying to obtain on the job skills whilst pursuing and searching for upcoming PhDs next year....

I am a bit of a quandary, any advice?