Hey,
Have just finished my second year of a four year M.Sci course in Physics at Bristol with a first. Have always wanted to go on and do a PhD - my question is, next summer (between 3rd and 4th year) should I work to save up cash to live on during a PhD, or should I try to get a placement in a lab somewhere - would that make me more appealling to a Uni or will a good degree be enough?

Cheers,
Fred

Why don't you try looking for a paid lab job during the summer if you can and kill two birds with one stone!

why not think about a vacation research studentship. you'll get a bursary (a big fat check!) awarded to you to fund yourself while you do a mini research project over the summer, usually at your own uni. its a great way of getting lab experience and getting to know the research staff at your uni. your lecturers will have more information about this, so talk to them. try http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/go/grantprogrammes/page_260.html. i hear the Welcome Trust do these studentships aswell. you wanna get your application in around Christmas time. best of luck

Thats great advice - didn't know you could get paid to do it! Cheers.