Hi, I really want to do a PhD (biosciences) & had several interviews over the summer. I was offered a place on one, & accepted & was due to start this week, But the only reason I can give myself for taking it is that I'm scared if I don't that I won't get another one. The subject is kinda interesting, but if I'm honest I'm not really excited about it, also I have doubts about the supervisor, he hasn't had a PhD student for several years & so there isn't really an acive research group there, & his experience isn't really in the area of the PhD, & I'm also concerned that I won't learn that many new techniques during the course of the PhD.

On the other hand, I'm worried that I may not get another opportunity. I graduated this summer & am worried that a year out will make me less attractive to future supervisors. I've found some studentships for starting in January, but there aren't many & so are bound to be more competitive. I can't afford to do a masters either. I'm also worried that if I let the supervisor down now he may get in touch with my referees & this may damage my future references.

Any advice would be much appreciated as I just don't know what to do.
Thanks

hi HelenaF
welcome to the forum!
you accepted this phd offer, right? are you hesitant to actually start?

some people actually accept phd offers, stick it out (for a bit) and either go on or stop. It happens.

but don't worry about letting your prospective supervisor down or that he may get in touch with your referees and damage your future references; don't worry about this.

I think the question you should ask yourself now is "would you like to try the phd" (since you have already accepted)
yes or no; and go from there

remember that people do quit or change topics in their phds and sometimes people do find that they enjoy their phd after all
its all out there for you to explore
good luck
love satchi