How to get PhD abroad? In conversation with Ms. Kuheli Banerjee(PART 4)
1. In brief tell us about your PhD/Research work.
My work is mainly focused on understanding the role of TGF-β/BMP signaling path¬way in maintaining cardiovascular stability and homeostasis. Mutations in TGF-β/BMP signaling pathway leads to vascular dysfunction in multiple vascular disorders including arterio-venous malformations (AVM), a clinical manifestation of Human Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT) vascular disorder. We are trying to decipher the cellular and molecular mechanisms in maintaining vascular stability.
2. If someone is looking for PhD opportunities abroad then what are the ways (websites/social media platforms etc.) by which one can come across such advertisements.
www.jobvector.de ( only for Germany)
Nature jobs, Linked in, euraxiss for marie curie fellowship, scholarship.de ( for Germany) to name a few.
3. How did you come across the PhD program you are/were enrolled in?
I applied through Nature jobs and wrote to the PI.
4. One thing that we hear a lot while applying for PhD abroad is ‘SOP’. So, what can be the best practice one can apply to build the SOP?
To be on point, crisp and clear. Flowery words do not matter just it should be short and to the point. Various examples are available online, they can be used as a skeleton.
5. Is research paper essential to get enrolled in a PhD program?
It is not a crucial criteria or eligibility but having one does help.
6. Similar to research papers, is prior lab experience/internship as project fellows or trainees essential/helpful to get a PhD position abroad?
It is not mandatory but the experience is valued
7. How much time should one expect while applying for these PhD program from the date of application to enrollment?
Could be anything between one to six months
8. What are the challenges one should expect while doing PhD abroad?
Most common is settling in a new country, new culture including work culture.
My name is Kuheli Banerjee, I have done my masters in biochemistry from MS university of Baroda. Then I joined for a PhD at ACTREC working in structural biology, but I was determined to work in molecular biology and cell biology which motivated me to look for PhD positions in Europe, ( I preferred EU than USA for various reasons) I then moved to Germany at the University of Heidelberg for my PhD. I will be happy to answer any further questions.
I also provide counselling to PhD aspirants on weekends and help them with application process, interviews and visa applications. 😊
Reach out to me at:
Mail: Kuheli.banerjee3192@gmail.com
Thank you