Hi everyone,

Well, you may ask if I dont have clear ideas so why doing a Phd ? the answer is i like further study and keeping my mind extremely busy and active. I'm an Electronics Engineer with a Masters' degree in System on Chip from University of Southampton and I know that there are so many opportunities for research in computer architecture and embedded systems, the fields I have natural affection to.

However when it comes to actually applying for a Phd, the fact you have to submit a 3000 plus word research proposal is quite deterring. It is not that I dont want to write anything and have my Phd in my pocket, but if I'm not yet involved in a program, have not given proper advise, have not contacted with academics in that field, how one can yet find a loophole in research area and try to fix it ?

Looking forward to your replies....

Start by taking a look at my blog, http://www.wearthesis.talktalk.net, which will give you an idea of the process you are about to face.

One piece of advice I will give is you should start by looking at PhD studentships with funding already in place. Take a look at http://www.findaphd.com/ to see what is on offer that might suit you.

You don't want to end up self-funding unless you are very, very rich.

Ian