synbio Ph.D, host of /synbio 🧬, co-host /science 👩🏽‍🔬, genetically modified organism, blog: editlife.substack.com

i have an email in my drafts folder addressed to a university, requesting more information about a PhD programme

but i'm terrified to send it out LOL

anyone here have experience applying to doctoral programmes?

*cough* @gmo

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basically everything @gmo said and can’t overstate enough how important trying  to find the “side door” is 

What I mean by that is to get in touch and meet with a specific person on or as close as possible to the thing you want to do. Then connect based on affinity or network vs going through generic admin /admission stream 

Most phds will be happy to meet if you’re cool. You get the scoop and if you charm them they will usually also recommend you to a PI/Prof which is what you really need to get on their radar

Researcher at MIT Media Lab | Creating futures | https://cyrus.website/info

That’s probably good for getting basic administrative info if that’s what you need!

If it’s more getting on to a program by far the most important thing is an actual PhD candidate on the program to speak to or having someone trusted by the lab to intro you. The latter is best ofc.

For the former, they usually have emails listed and papers / work etc so you should be able to find affinity match

Then just write a nice short mail eg introduction of self + gushing praise of their work + synergy with your interest/work + ask to meet

ahh great advice thank u so much!! i think i saw a list of contacts on the lab website and one of them is like a ‘phd representative’ so i’ll reach out to them as well!