Morning all,

I was wondering if I could trouble you for a little advice. I have recently graduated with a 1st class degree (with a very low 69% av.) and hope to go on to do a PhD. I struggled to get a place this year round due to lack of research experience and so am faced with a year out. I have a MSc lined up in the field I want to go into and have recently been offered a research assistant position in a different field. Which would give me the most chance in succeeding in obtaining a PhD next year? A relevant masters or not entirely relevant lab position? Should I bolster my relatively low 1st with an MSc? Would the fact I'm prepared to leave a research assistant post after only a year of a 3 year contract reflect badly on me?

Please help.