I hope someone can explain this to me.Some Studentships require you to write a "short" research proposal or research interest. Is it the same as SOP? Should it include technical terms eg name of cell lines.
Thank you.

still waiting for help........

Research proposal is usually 1-3 pages, and it contains the topic of your proposal, main objectives, introduction such as general info on were your topic came from, a brief review of research that was done on this topic and lack of research if there is one, and your ideas on how your research will fill this gap. Also it will include research questions you are going to ask, methodology and so on. SOP is a bit different because you talk there about your general career and research interests, what research experience you have, and that kind of things.

Hi Skw
SOP as in a standard operating procedure? In science an SOP is a written procedure describing how to perform a laboratory task (to make sure every researcher uses it in the same reproducible way and follows health and safety rules). So, it’s quite different to a research proposal. Try googling for 'writing a research proposal', lots of helpful hints and you should find something suitable for your field. Good luck.

SoP in this case is meaning Statement of Purpose. An SoP is required by most European universities when international students apply for a postgraduate course (Masters or PhD). It should detail the applicants career/educational history, why they want to do the course and what career path they wish to pursue afterwords. It is a more detailed equivalent of an application letter. As Alex says the research proposal is a separate document.

Ah yes, that makes much more sense!!! :o)

Thanks everyone. Yes I meant SoP. Ann,that's some new info I gained.Thanks.

If the number of pages for SoP/Research proposal is not specified and you cannot reach the concerned person with this doubt, how many pages should you restrict to?
Also should you put the ref no./ project name on the first page;sorry silly question but I really dont know. Thank you.