To help you prepare your CV and personal statement for an EngD or PhD application, here are some resources and key aspects to consider:

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

A CV for a PGR application differs from a standard professional CV. It should emphasize your academic achievements and research potential. Here's what to focus on and where to find more information:

Key Elements:

• Contact Information: Include your full name, current city, phone number, and professional email address.

• Research Interests: A brief summary of your research interests, tailored to the specific project you're applying for, demonstrating your motivation for that field.

• Education: List all your degrees in reverse chronological order, including institution name, degree title, dates of study, and grades achieved (including classifications or GPA). Mention relevant modules, research projects, and dissertation titles, and the names of supervisors if applicable. For international qualifications, briefly explain the grading system. It's generally not necessary to include high school information unless specifically requested.

• Research Experience: Detail any research experience you have, including undergraduate and Master's projects, lab work, and any specific technical skills gained. Highlight your responsibilities and achievements.

• Publications and Conferences: If you have any publications (even if not peer-reviewed, such as book reviews or articles) or have presented at conferences, include these details with full citations. While not expected at this stage, it's beneficial to include if applicable.

• Additional Experience/Positions of Responsibility: Include any part-time work, volunteering, internships, or roles where you held significant responsibilities. Focus on transferable skills relevant to a PhD, such as time management, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. Mention membership in relevant societies or professional bodies.

• Relevant Skills: Briefly list both hard skills (e.g., specific software, lab techniques, languages) and soft skills (e.g., critical thinking, adaptability, initiative) relevant to your research area.

• Awards and Funding: Mention any scholarships, grants, prizes, or awards you have received.

• Teaching Experience (if applicable): If you have any teaching, tutoring, or mentoring experience, describe your role and responsibilities.

• References: Typically, you'll need to provide the names and contact details of at least two academic referees who know your work well. Always ask for their permission beforehand.

Resources:

• University Careers Services: Most UK universities have excellent careers services that provide specific guidance on CVs for postgraduate applications - your current university should have this service.

• Online Resources: Websites like Prosper, jobs.ac.uk, and FindaPhD.

• Vitae: This is a national organisation supporting the professional development of researchers and offers resources on creating effective academic CVs. Go to https://vitae.ac.uk/

• Academic CV Templates: Some universities or career advice websites may offer templates specifically designed for PhD applications - for example this from the University of Cambridge

Key Tips:

• Tailor it: Customize your CV for each application, highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific research area and institution.

• Be Concise: Aim for one to two pages. Academic CVs can be slightly longer if you have significant research experience or publications. Use bullet points for readability.

• Focus on Achievements: Use action verbs to describe your responsibilities and highlight your accomplishments.

• Maintain a Professional Format: Use a clear, classic font (e.g., Calibri, Arial, Times New Roman) and consistent formatting.

• Proofread Carefully: Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. Ask someone else to review it as well.

Personal Statement

The personal statement is your opportunity to explain why you are a good fit for the CDT program, showcasing your motivations, aspirations, and relevant experiences.

Key Elements:

• Motivation for PGR Study: Clearly articulate why you want to pursue postgraduate study, and why this specific research area interests you.

• Research Interests and Alignment: Explain your specific research interests and how they align with the research being conducted in the department and by potential supervisors at the university. Show that you have researched the CDT program and the faculty.

• Relevant Background and Experience: Discuss your academic background, research experience, and any other relevant work or personal experiences that have prepared you for doctoral study. Highlight specific skills (e.g., critical thinking, research methodologies, analytical skills, communication) and how you have developed them.

• Why This University and Program: Explain why you have chosen this particular university, department, and PhD program. Mention specific aspects that attract you, such as faculty expertise, research facilities, specific projects, or the research environment.

• Career Goals: Briefly outline your future career aspirations and how this PhD program will help you achieve them.

• Fit and Contribution: Explain how your skills, experience, and research interests make you a good fit for the program and how you can contribute to the research environment.

• Addressing Weaknesses (if necessary): If there are any weaknesses in your application (e.g., lower grades in a particular area), you can briefly address them and explain what you have learned or how you have improved.

Resources:

• University Postgraduate Admissions Pages: These pages often provide specific guidance on what they are looking for in a personal statement for their PhD programs.

• University Careers Services: As with CVs, careers services offer advice, workshops, and feedback on personal statements.

• Online Resources: Websites like UCAS provide valuable tips and examples for writing effective postgraduate personal statements.

• Academic Blogs and Articles: Search online for articles like "how to write a PhD personal statement UK" to find advice from academics and current PhD students.

Key Tips:

• Understand the Purpose: It's not just a summary of your achievements but a chance to convey your passion and potential.

• Research the Course and Faculty: Tailor your statement to the specific program and demonstrate your knowledge of the research being done.

• Tell Your Story: Be authentic and use specific examples to illustrate your points and motivations.

• Be Concise and Clear: Admissions officers read many statements, so be to the point and use clear, well-organized language.

• Show Enthusiasm and Commitment: Let your passion for your research area shine through.

• Seek Feedback: Ask academics, mentors, or friends to read your statement and provide constructive criticism.

• Proofread Meticulously: Ensure there are no errors in grammar or spelling.

Interview Skills

1. Understand the Purpose of the Interview:

• Assessment of Fit: The interviewers want to assess if your research interests align with the department's expertise and available projects (if applicable).

• Evaluation of Skills: They'll evaluate your critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and enthusiasm for research.

• Understanding Your Motivation: They want to know why you've chosen this specific program and university.

• Clarification of Your Application: The interview provides an opportunity for them to clarify any aspects of your CV or personal statement.

• Your Opportunity to Ask Questions: It's also your chance to learn more about the program, the research environment, and the supervisory team.

2. Pre-Interview Preparation:

• Revisit Your Application: Thoroughly review your CV and personal statement. Be prepared to elaborate on any points you raised and answer questions about your experiences and motivations.

• Research the University and Department: Demonstrate your genuine interest by researching the department's research strengths, current projects, recent publications, and the overall research environment.

• Know Your Potential Supervisor(s): If you've indicated a potential supervisor, research their work in detail. Understand their key publications, current research interests, and any specific projects they might be involved in. Be prepared to discuss how your interests align with theirs.

• Understand the PhD Project (if applicable): If you're applying for a funded project, make sure you have a deep understanding of the research aims, methodology, and potential challenges.

• Prepare Talking Points: Think about how your skills and experiences relate to the requirements of the PhD program. Prepare examples that showcase your:

  • Research Skills: Experience with specific methodologies, data analysis, lab techniques, etc.

  • Critical Thinking: Ability to analyze information, identify problems, and propose solutions.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: Examples of how you've overcome challenges in your academic or research work.

  • Communication Skills: Ability to articulate your ideas clearly and concisely.

  • Motivation and Passion: Your genuine interest in the research area.

  • Independence and Initiative: Your ability to work autonomously and drive your own research.

• Anticipate Potential Questions: While each interview is unique, some common questions arise:

  • Why do you want to pursue a PhD?

  • Why have you chosen this specific program/university/supervisor?

  • What are your research interests?

  • How does your previous experience relate to this PhD?

  • What are your strengths and weaknesses as a researcher?

  • What are your career goals after your PhD?

  • How do you plan to approach your research?

  • What challenges do you anticipate during your PhD?

  • What are your thoughts on [a relevant paper or topic in the field]?

  • Do you have any questions for us?

• Prepare Your Own Questions: Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your engagement and genuine interest. Some examples include:

  • What is the typical supervision style in the department?

  • What opportunities are there for collaboration within the department or with other institutions?

  • What resources and support are available for PhD students (e.g., training, conferences, career development)?

  • What is the expected timeline for the PhD project?

  • What are the current research priorities of the group/department?

• Practice Your Answers: Rehearse your answers to potential questions out loud. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely and manage your time effectively during the interview. You can practice with friends, family, or mentors.

• Plan Your Outfit: Dress professionally and smartly. This shows respect for the interviewers and the occasion.

• Technical Preparation (for online interviews):

  • Ensure you have a stable internet connection.

  • Test your microphone and webcam beforehand.

  • Choose a quiet and well-lit environment with a neutral background.

  • Position your camera at eye level.

  • Have your application documents and notes readily accessible but out of direct view.

3. During the Interview:

• Be Punctual (or log in early for online interviews): Show respect for the interviewers' time.

• Be Enthusiastic and Engaged: Display genuine interest in the program and the research area.

• Listen Carefully to the Questions: Ensure you understand the question before answering. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask for clarification.

• Answer Clearly and Concisely: Provide focused and relevant answers. Avoid rambling.

• Use Specific Examples: When discussing your skills and experiences, back them up with concrete examples from your academic or research background.

• Be Honest and Authentic: Present yourself truthfully and avoid exaggerating your achievements.

• Maintain Eye Contact (even on video): This shows confidence and engagement.

• Speak Clearly and at a Moderate Pace: Ensure the interviewers can easily understand you.

• Don't Be Afraid to Pause and Think: It's better to take a moment to formulate a thoughtful answer than to rush into a poorly constructed one.

• Address Any Weaknesses Honestly and Positively: If asked about weaknesses, acknowledge them briefly and focus on how you are working to improve.

• Be Prepared to Discuss Your Research Proposal (if applicable): If you submitted a research proposal, be ready to discuss its aims, methodology, and feasibility.

• Answer Questions Thoroughly: Ensure you have fully addressed all aspects of the question asked.

• Be Polite and Respectful: Maintain a professional and courteous demeanor throughout the interview.

• Ask Your Prepared Questions: Use this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the program.

• Thank the Interviewers: Express your gratitude for their time at the end of the interview.

4. Post-Interview:

• Reflect on the Interview: Take some time to reflect on how you performed and what you learned. This can be helpful for future interviews.

• Be Patient: The decision process can take some time. Avoid contacting the department repeatedly unless they have provided a specific timeline.