I've accepted a PhD studentship starting in Oct working in the same dept that I just completed my undergrad in. The thing is, I dont know what I'm going to be researching - I've met with my supervisor and he wants me to just pick a starting point in oct and see where it takes me. Is this normal as Im a bit worried about it?

I am in the same boat. not really sure on the specific research question and was just given a vague topic.

I think you just have to see how things go in the first few months. Find some area which you will enjoy researching for the next couple of years. However, it is important to meet up with your supervisor regularly at the start so you have a plan and proposal sorted for the PhD.

Do you at least know which research area(s) your supervisor is interested in? If a topic hasn't been specified then I'd assume that you'll be pursuing a topic in your supervisors' area of interest and expertise. Although I'm sure you'll quickly find direction when you start, I too would be worried at this stage as it all seems awfully vague. Also "studentship" implies funding which is usually secured only after a research plan has been produced. Have you been in any contact with your supervisor this summer? It may be an idea to make contact not only to register the fact that you're looking forward to starting, but it will allow you to mention the fact that you're a little apprehensive as you don't know what to expect when you start, you don't know how your 3 years will be timetabled, etc....

I was lucky enough to be sent a research plan with timetable: 3 months this, 10 months that, etc. Very reassuring!

Thanks guys! Anon - my supervisor is new to the dept but is well known within his field so he has 2 studentships & a research assistant to set up a lab so thats why the funding has been secured without a research proposal. ive been in touch with him and when i originally met with him he was keen for me to have an open mind about potential projects. i know he knows what he's doing as he is very experienced at being a supervisor and is a lovely guy so im not pulling out my hair or anything (yet!) but it just feels that everyone else has a much better idea at what they're getting themselves into than me!

Dont worry I am also in the same situ.