Case studies : Research Council funding: Brian Colquhoun

After graduating with an MSc in Physics, Brian Colquhoun chose to continue his studies at the University of Glasgow where he is currently in his first year of a Particle Physics Theory PhD. Brian is funding his course with a Research Council grant.

I chose to study for a PhD in order to keep my options open. I like having the choice of pursuing a long career in research or choosing from a wide range of other fulfilling careers once I graduate.

Initially, I applied for a scholarship from the Faculty of Physical Sciences, now known as the College of Science and Engineering, but there was stiff competition and my application wasn’t successful.

So, I applied for a Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) grant. There is still competition for these awards, with a minimum requirement of a 2:1 degree, so all candidates are relatively well qualified.

I had to submit an online application to the physical sciences graduate school in early January and was invited for interviews mid February. The wait to find out if I had been successful was not too long, and I was offered a place in March.

It’s worth applying to several universities to boost your chances - I applied to four institutions and was successful in obtaining offers of an STFC-funded place at two.
 
Funding lasts for 42 months, which is taken to be enough time to complete my research degree and thesis. The grant is worth £13,590 a year and covers cost of living expenses. The STFC also pays my tuition fees, which for this year came to £3,466.

The Council even pays a small contribution to the university that can be used for conferences, fieldwork and any other necessary training fees. It’s worthwhile applying for a grant to help get the most out of your PhD in terms of being able to balance your work and social life without needing to take on a part-time job.

Research Council grants are an excellent way to support yourself through postgraduate study and I’d advise anyone who plans to study at this level to keep an eye out for funding and be familiar with the types of funding that are available.

I’d recommend that prospective students contact their chosen university’s graduate school committee for details of what funding is available and how to obtain it. It’s also a good idea to speak to students who are being funded by a Research Council grant already, in order to get first-hand information on what it is like to be funded this way.

I am in the early stages of my PhD, but so far it has been enjoyable, enlightening and definitely worthwhile.