I've found a PhD advertised that i'm interested in, what's the best way to apply? Should I email the supervisor first to express an interest or should I just go ahead and make a formal application? Do supervisors prefer to have had contact with a student first? Thanks, L

Email him first telling him why you want to do a phd and include your cv. Hopefully you will get an interview anyway and you will be given a form then to fill in. If you just send a form off there is nothing to separate you from the rest of the applicants. Worked for me.

email the supervisor 1st to let him/her know u are interested. maybe as about funding and lab visit to show you are enthusiatic!