Hi,

I know that most people are under-funded/self funded/CDL but I would really appreciate any help someone could give me. I am applying for PhD's (1+3/4 years) all of which come with specific funding but as a safety net (and to give me more options) I want to apply for some masters, but I also need funding for these. Could anyone tell me which bodies they applied to for funding?
I'll be doing an MSc in genetics, neurology or something similar (I want to do a PhD in clinical applications of stem cells in neurological conditions if anyone is interested!) and I'm guessing I can try the research council, but are there any other avenues people would recommend?

Thanks

Sam

Yeah I think keeping on my PGCE even if it's just as a fallback/part time plan is definitely a good idea even if I'm sick of certain aspects I guess I'm close to finishing and it at least shows I can see something through!

Its a secondary education PGCE, so I don't know whether I'd still have to do the HE PGCE I guess I would and if I don't it's a bonus

I'm working in a slightly odd field although not entirely new my undergrad was in joint honours in biology and psychology and my first option PHD is in social, genetic and developmental psychiatry so I want to work in the genetics of behaviour and developmental mechanisms for that which is quite specialised but not entirely new! I'll definitely check out that research thanks for the tip! I also hope I can get some sessional work or undergrad lab supervision etc while I'm on my PhD... if I ever get one!

At the moment I'm just imagining not getting a PhD place and not getting a permanent teaching job because there have been hardly any advertised at the moment :-(

Thanks for the advice guys!!

Hi,

I don't know if any one has any experience looking for lecturing posts, but I've decided that's where I want to be! I have my BSc (hons) and I'm part way through a PGCE, I love research and miss being in a lab so much so I'm applying for 4 year phds (MRes/MSc + PhD). I just want to know whether it's worth continuing with my PGCE or leaving with a PDip in Education and working so I have more money to last me through my PhD (I have been doing my PGCE for a year and a half because I broke my leg mid way through, so my funding has ran out and I won't have time for a job when I'm on placement!)

Any other tips on how to make myself a more attractive proposition for lecturing would be brilliant, I know I need lots of publications, possible teaching/lecturing experience, post doc work (although I'd really like post doc while lecturing if that's a possibility!).

Does anyone have any experience? :-) :-) :-)

I can only offer advice based on location, but Durham is very small and sedate, if you're looking for anything more exciting I'd pick UCL. It will also be easier to get any part time work there too as Durham is limited on that front. UCL is higher rated (I think) in the times tables. As you've already pointed out London massively fails with regard to living expenses, although accommodation in Durham City (not in college) is actually relatively costly. Saying that I had some wonderful lecturer's at Durham (even if my experience wasn't the most positive) who were really inspiring and the facilities are really good in general.

Hey guys

Thanks for all the nice encouraging comments! I've started my applications for a few different courses and narrowed my choices down by lab and projects on offer and whether I'll come out with 2 qualifications or 1 (I much prefer that my 1st year is recognised, so if I hate my lab/city/life I can take my MRes and bugger off somewhere else!)

@Gingersnapps I've taught in some schools I'm not quite finished my PGCE but I just don't think teaching is me. At least not yet. I like the academic side though of the masters parts which is why I've decided to push through for a PhD. I've wanted to do one since my undergrad and it's always been part of my eventual plan but I've been a bit scared about dipping my feet and testing the waters!
(robin)

Hi,

I'm in the process of applying for a 4 year phd (hopefully with an MRes or MSc 1st) and I'm having a crisis of confidence! I need a sponsored Phd cause I can't afford to do it otherwise. I would prefer a phd which will let me work on my skills for a year and finalise my proposal in that year. I've found a few I really like, but I'm worried that I won't qualify without a MSc or similar.

I have a 2 i in Joint hons Science (biology and psychology) and a PGCE in Biology. I don't have any research lab work (paid or otherwise) apart from what I did in my undergrad which I think feels a bit basic. I have biochem, physiology, developmental biology, ecological sampling and population genetics practical experience (for anyone who's interested). That's why I'm looking at 4 years so I can build up my skills.

I'm hard working and believe I could handle a phd, but I don't know whether a university would put it's faith in me! I would really like any advice as to how to best make people believe I can do it. Has anyone been in a similar situation, and gotten their phd? would anyone advise applying for lab jobs (even if they aren't in my field) prior to applying for a studentship?

Thanks!!

(sorry for the long post btw!!)