PGR Interviews

Getting the interview: Who to apply to: Response to adverts Anyone whose work you find particularly interesting What to write: Cover letter – not too effusive, relate yourself to the project/area of research Always include your CV Do include names of people who can write references (Do you have these lined up?)

DO YOUR HOMEWORK Be prepared to talk about yourself, YOUR work (maybe a presentation) and the experiences/skills that you have Be ready to discuss THEIR work/project Have an idea of your future plans (where do you see yourself in 5 years..) Make sure you know and have thought about the STRUCTURE of the programme

https://www.postgrad.com/advice/phd/interview_dos_and_donts/

From interview template for BBSRC DTP: Attributes Area of Assessment How Identified 1. Academic Background Honours Degree (2:1 or 1st) or Masters degree and relevance of content to project. Mathematical and IT skills CV, references, covering letter 2. Interview questions Scientific background and achievements/goals of Honours/Masters project that is being or has been completed. Explanation of techniques used and skills gained Interview Understanding of the project applied for in terms of scientific background, the challenges it may pose Communication skills   3. Commitment to PhD and DTP Why does the student want to do a PhD? Why this specific PhD - appreciation of the research project objectives Careers plans for 5-10 years time? View of the DTP cohort identity of students, cross-partnership events and PIPS placement* *CASE students are required to spend time with the CASE partner. This obviates the need to arrange a separate PIPS placement

What else might you be asked to do? Formal interview with set questions (may be the department’s PG admissions staff) Less formal discussion with panel/individual supervisor Critically assess a paper/data Teamwork Chat with members of the lab (this is REALLY important for YOU as well as them) Look around the facilities https://www.findaphd.com/advice/finding/phd-interview.aspx