Explore the world of doctoral research and academia with insights, tips, and guidance for prospective and current PhD students. Navigate the challenges and rewards of the doctoral journey.
Dr Chris Thompson shares his experience of pursuing a PhD scholarship which was more challenging than doing a PhD itself. He talks about the emotional impact of rejection letters and the moments when he hit rock bottom.
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Part 2 of an atypical guide to getting a PhD, structured as ten tips. This article highlights a 10-year trek to a bachelor’s degree and a much-delayed 3.5-year sprint to a doctorate – all before age 50!
In this motivational article, the author reflects on his mental health journey of realising teaching wasn’t his dream job after all and starting over in an academia-adjacent career. The article highlights the value of clear boundaries between work and home, of prioritising mental health in academia and beyond, and of being brave enough to choose another road when you reach a dead end.
The stress and all-consuming nature of pursuing an academic career is often detailed in social media posts and anecdotal tales. Whilst it is useful for PhD students to understand the perils of careers in academia, this article provides further context for some of the issues surrounding progression in the academic profession. It runs through five factors that impact on how all-consuming academic careers can be, ultimately advising you to progress in academia at your own pace.
Follow Marco T.P. Gontijo’s journey as he applied to PhD programs, received the prestigious Fulbright scholarship, and was accepted into a PhD program at Duke University in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology.
Pillalamarri Srikrishnarka shares 10 tips he wish he knew before starting his STEM-based PhD program at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. A final year scholar, Pillalamarri emphasizes networking and time management, he provides useful links to other resources.
From selecting the right program and advisor to managing stress and staying motivated, this article offers a comprehensive guide to support future PhD students with insights and tips to navigate each phase of the doctoral process. With an engaging and supportive tone, this roadmap aims to inspire confidence and enthusiasm, equipping students with the tools they need to embark on this exciting and challenging adventure.
This article reflects on the author’s 15-year academic journey, detailing the lessons learned from disorganised PhD student to effective work habits as a postdoc and assistant professor, and applying these lessons to their current role at Paperpile. Suzanne offers practical advice on academic writing, productivity, and professional development, emphasizing the importance of daily writing practice, systematic note-taking, reflection, goal setting, and the use of digital tools like reference managers. She shares these insights to help current PhD students avoid similar pitfalls and develop productive habits early in their academic careers.
Time anxiety is an underestimated and significant mental challenge for many PhD students. It refers to the worry, tension, or stress regarding the passage of time. This article offers some advice to help handle time anxiety.
