"The programme allows us to rub shoulders with other academics at the top of their fields, since they are invited to speak on their ongoing research at the School. Overall, I feel the programme has provided me with the finest opportunity to thrive in this profession".
Year of graduation: 2024Name of programme: Law PhDCountry: UK
The PhD programme at Queen Mary University is driven by subject specific research and the Queen Mary Intellectual Property Research Institute is one of the world's biggest IP research institutes. Being a research associate of QMIPRI is the best decision I have made. As a PhD associate, we have research trainings, and the school provides research tools for students. The professors who are experts in the field are supportive with students' research work and the administrative team is very responsive.
The doctoral college provides some funding for researchers, and this is quite helpful. It has been a rewarding experience being at Queen Mary University. Prospective research associates at Queen Mary should take advantage of all the resources that the doctoral institute has provided if they make the most of their time at the institution.
One of the finest decisions I have ever made was to attend QMUL. While the course format is designed to enable students to pursue their own academic interests and act on their own, professors and tutors are always accessible to provide advice and direction. Furthermore, in this university, there are no limitations to what a single student may accomplish.
The PhD programme has proven fruitful, yet difficult. It not only improves your research skills, but it also broadens your viewpoint. Starting the PhD in a pandemic was very tough but the cohort and professors have helped a lot. The QMIPRI organised various research seminars to share our research work; there were number of staff seminars as well as research paper swaps. The doctoral college separately organised various skill development programmes and productive seminars which includes writing retreats, productivity related seminars, mental health related seminars etc.
Contact your potential supervisors beforehand to discuss the research proposal; the QM administration is very helpful. Do your research on the scholarship/ funding opportunities, contact and discuss with the student committee/ finance team regarding budget planning before moving to London and do not hesitate to contact current PhD students who are very helpful. (I would like to mention Gareth Skehan for being so patient and helping me throughout the admission process).
The people will undoubtedly drive the experience of any programme. Faculty members, as well as students, are extraordinarily bright and receptive individuals who will freely devote time to discussing ideas. They set high standards, but they provide you with the information and skills necessary to meet them. Furthermore, the programme allows us to rub shoulders with other academics at the top of their fields, since they are invited to speak on their ongoing research at the School. Overall, I feel the programme has provided me with the finest opportunity to thrive in this profession.