The presentation outlines understanding the nature and expectations of PhD research, such as conducting publishable work, contextualizing research within the existing literature, and engaging in critical evaluation. The journey is described as personal, with unique opportunities like flexible work, international collaboration, and career-enhancing experiences such as placements and conferences.
A significant portion of the session focuses on starting a PhD project effectively. This includes familiarizing oneself with the field, identifying gaps in knowledge, selecting methods, and establishing realistic objectives and timelines. Tools like the Double Diamond model and Gantt charts are recommended for structuring research planning and execution.
The presentation also offers practical advice on literature reviews, including reading strategies and critical analysis questions to foster deeper engagement with sources. The role of AI is addressed, noting its usefulness alongside the need for caution due to limitations in reliability and ethical concerns.
