Doing a PhD is one of the most rewarding experiences in life. You get to conduct your own research, develop your skills, and ultimately become a doctor! Think back to when you were told that your application was accepted, and you were going to start the PhD position. I bet you were excited and nervous; I know I was! However, after starting your PhD, the excitement may fade and stress can start to ...[Read More]
The most important aspect of your PhD: supervisor-student relationship
There are many variables when applying for a PhD programme (country, system, length, funding, project, etc.). In regards to choosing a supervisor, I did my best to make an educated choice, and I really lucked out in terms of the people that I am working with. In the past 3.5 years, I have received scientific and professional support, mentorship, networking opportunities, creative encouragem ...[Read More]
The Sassy Scientist – Race to the Deadline
After snoozing their alarm for the 50th time, Alex gets started with their day. They should be writing their thesis first thing after breakfast, but instead they write to the Sassy Scientist: How do you manage to meet writing deadlines as a PhD student? Dear Alex, Ah! You have reached the writing stage. I assume then your pin board is full of post-it notes with goals for ‘next week’. B ...[Read More]
The Sassy Scientist – When All Is Said And Done
Lena has just shown me her beautiful LaTeX thesis template, complete with chapter headings. Populating it with text and results isn’t so exciting so instead she is beginning to consider: How should I celebrate my PhD defence? Dear Lena, Once all the hard work of writing your thesis is done, you’re left with one task that may fall completely outside your experience – organising yo ...[Read More]