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The pros and cons of basing your PhD on your Master’s topic

In this video, Dr Nicolai Due-Gunderson explores the advantages and disadvantages of basing your PhD on your Master's topic. Whether you're considering continuing your studies or are already on the path to pursuing a PhD, this video offers valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about your research direction.
Picture of Nicolai Due-Gundersen

Nicolai Due-Gundersen

Dr Nicolai Due-Gundersen is a Middle East analyst @SRMInform and former Lecturer with the United Nations. He has published books The Privatization of Warfare (Intersentia) and Defending Dictatorship (Palgrave Macmillan) and appeared on Al Jazeera and CGTN.

When Dreams Fall Apart: Mental Health and New Beginnings in Academia and Beyond

Ben Pettitt

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.

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‘Spectral Schedules’ in Postdoctoral Applications: The Case for Transparency and Consistency in Academic Hiring  

Sheng-Hsiang Lance Peng

This article highlights the issue of unclear and unpredictable application processes for postdoctoral opportunities in the UK and beyond. Drawing on philosophical concepts like hauntology, it calls for universities to honour (or refrain from setting!) their ‘outcome announcement’ dates, as this would alleviate disappointment and foster greater fairness and transparency in postdoctoral applications.

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PhD in Later Life: It’s Never Too Late To Be a Student

Stuart Blaney

This article explores the experience of doing a part-time distance PhD in later life. The author’s age was an advantage, allowing them to focus on their thesis without distractions or major hiccups. The article reflects on how to make for a smooth doctorate – emphasising the importance of strong interest in your topic, supervisors who are easy to work with, and a bit of luck!

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All views expressed are those of the individual authors and do not reflect the views of The PhD Place Ltd.
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