Hmmm, I'm not really sure. The academic thing might be nice if the right project came along, but I might go back into the conservation job sector and see if I can use my Phd to get a job doing something pro-active. Its exciting really... seeing what might happen!!

This is often the case. Its a contentious issue but universities often have some claim over research carried out at their institution. I would think very carefully before challenging it. as you say, it could really harm your research career..and thinking positively..perhaps having your supervisor will give the paper some prestige and added weight in the field. To be authored on a paper at all is fantastic at this stage! Being able to demonstrate an ability to create a good working relationship is all important. Academia is all about standing on other peoples shoulders. With a bit of luck your time at the top will come!

Finally, definately try to get a research assistant job. You'll probably be on the minimum wage but it'll get your face known in the department. You'll be able to harp on to your hearts content about how keen you are to do a Phd and people will respect you putting in the hours. This is how I got my Phd.
Avian ecology is just about the most sought after area in conservation sci. The competition is extraordinary and I know the people in my department who've got these projects are often quite a bit older and have had jobs with the RSPB etc first. Think carefull whether a related phd... although not necessarily birdy.. will still get you where you want to be.

Don't worry about the Masters distinction. Focus on doing a research project which is relevant to the field you hope to do a Phd in and make sure its good science that you can discuss at length at an interview, they will always ask you! Don't skimp on the more practical stuff either... Go out and do bird surveys, get a ringing licence, BTO nest monitoring. It shows the ultra keen from those just going through the academic motions.

Wow, that sounds an interesting project. Working at Kew will be amazing I imagine. Mine's on sustainable pollinators in UK agriculture. You gotta love the beeees!! Its based at Leeds because they do alot of research on organic and inorganic farming there.

Its in the field of conservation biology. I won't be working at home as such, but at least I won't have to live in grim student digs again!

Hahaha! Sooooo excited. I have been waiting for this moment for so long and it is the most amazing feeling. I know my supervisor is fantastic because i've already worked for him for the past 6 months, I can carry on living at home and i'm really close to all my friends (Had been looking at phd's all over the country). Had to do a little dance at the computer when I got my email!
I'm such a keenie, I can't wait to start...!!!

You can limit yourself in all sorts of ways: location, topic, field work location.... at the end of the day you'll know the Phd you really want when you see it.

I generally take the attitude that there's so much competition you might as well just see what happens. If fate dictates you get it, so be it. You'll love the phd and that will get you through. A phd is about the most flexible working arrangement you're ever going to get. Field work aside you can work from pretty much anywhere and decide your own schedule so you could spend much of your reading time at home with your fiance. You'll be happier if you make a Phd work around you rather than the other way around.

I do! Infact I'm in a very similar situation to you apart from the opposite way around... maybe we should swap!! My boyfriend lives in the Lake District and I'm trying to get an ecology Phd this year closeish by (York, Leeds).
I've decided to limit myself to Phd's fairly close by, because its only a Phd after all. Life and love ARE more important. However, occasionally I do see a Phd which looks amazing and then regardless of location (within reason.. I've avoided Aberdeen and Cornwall Devon) I do apply for it.

I've got a PhD interview tomorrow and I've done lots of reading, have previous postgrad research experience in a relatively similar field and know the supervisor pretty well ...sooo I think i've got a passing chance. I think its time to try and imagine what could be the worst possible question they could ask me.... like a real STINKER.. that way I could be prepared!! Whats the worst thing you were ever asked....??? What are peoples thoughts about stats questions? Likely for a biological PhD interview???

Hi!

I've seen a PHD I really want to apply for but the system has changed since I last applied. Do I send a cv and covering letter by the application enquiry form, or is this simply for further info? Thanks!

Ooops. wrong place

Hi!

I've seen a PHD I really want to apply for but the system seems to have changed since I last applied. Do I send a covering letter and CV by the application enquiry form or is this simply for finding out further details by way of a short email?

Thanks!

Hi Dreamsphere! Yes its a tricky one really, as you want to be general enough to actually find a project, whilst still ensuring its something thats going to fascinate you for the next three years. Ideally something with an ornithological slant would be great so its a case of keep scouring! Really glad to know I'm not alone though. Whats your ideal area?
I've resigned myself to the fact I'll not find anything this year and am going to start a MRes. Fingers crossed it will all work out, but my post was prompted by all this amazingly depressing reading I've been doing on conservation biology and how a) I'll NEVER get a job, and b) If i do, I'll be living off a bread crust for the rest of my life in a tent with a hole in it, have wild hair and a strange lingering smell. Lots of people seem to think that a PhD won't help much, maybe a slightly more roomy tent???