A lil bit about my background: I just graduated with a 1st Class honours degree in life science. I have done an undergrad project with thesis, presented at an international conference, and also awarded best undergrad project by my faculty. Done an internship at a research lab as well.

Getting a PhD is my ultimate goal, but I don't think I am quite ready for it yet. For the reasons stated down below, I'm not sure if it's a good idea for me to jump straight into PhD from bachelor's.

I intend to get into biomedical research, preferably at a foreign country for that overseas experience. I had to depend on scholarship due to financial constraint. Based on the entry requirements that I've seen so far, I am qualified for PhD and of course for Master's. However, what concerns me the most is the scholarship application. Compared to applicants who have Master's + research experience, with/without publications etc., I think my profile seem a little weak since I came straight from bachelor's. (or it's not? let me know what do you think)

Besides, getting into PhD is a big deal. Once I'm in it, there's at least 3-4 years of commitment to be invested. So I thought of doing MRes first, to sort of give myself time to explore my area of interest + gain experience, but people around me (professors, family members, friends) have been giving me different opinions regarding this matter, basically falling into these 2 categories:

1) With my profile, I should just go for PhD and MRes would be redundant, because research profile can always be built later on, skills can always be taught and learned. And scholarships for MRes are scarce.
2) Getting an MRes is a good investment as it provides me training and exposure which will certainly help me set my pace when I get into PhD. Plus it's a good way to strengthen my profile for PhD application later on.

I really don't know what to do right now and honestly, I feel stuck. I'd appreciate any opinions, comments and I welcome all of you to share your PG experience with me. Thanks in advance