u/spud_potato

I have a BSc in Biochemistry, and I did Honours in my final year (4 years total) which includes an independent research project, A written thesis and an oral defence. This was all done while taking 3 final year advanced courses per semester that are related to the project I am doing.

Other research training before I started honours I did a summer research internship, and I volunteered in the same lab I did my honours in for a year.

I have been told by supervisors that I am competitive for the scholarships and all. But I am worried that the schools may not accept my background and research training.

Lots of the schools I'm applying to mention on their website "A 4-year undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline, including a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25% of 1 year of full-time study."

I believe that my degree satisfies that 25% of 1 year full time study, as my honours thesis course is considered a course in each semester, on top of taking 3 other classes.

Anyone has any insights to this? Thank you!

Hi all,

A little background about me: I graduated from a Canadian university with honours in biochemistry. My research background includes a summer research internship, a whole year of volunteering in a research lab, as well as an honours year (volunteer and honours in the same lab). I couldn't find a research job in canada after graduating so I ended up working in healthcare just to pay the bills, but it also made me realise I really love research (and also extremely miss being in the lab), thus I am applying for PhD. I have applied to 3 schools last year (non aus schools) and was rejected by all of them...

I converted WAM from my grades is an 82 which I understand is low which reduces my chance for the RTP. I have upcoming 3rd author conference poster as well as publication in the works from my honours which probably would not help that much as well based of my research online.

I am currently in talks with several professors (all go8 unis which unfortunately means that it is super competitive. I am mainly applying because of fit for research, also because they are the only supervisors that replied to my emails). Two of the potential supervisors knew my honours supervisors work and are acquainted with them. All potential supervisors are also hoping to bring my previous expertise into their lab. They have also told me that my profile is competitive but I am still having doubts.

I understand securing RTP would be an extremely competitive process, I wouldn't want to self fund a PhD as research is extremely time consuming and stressful. However, I would really love to pursue a PhD in either one of the potential lab as the work they do are similar with my background. Still looking for non go8 uni supervisors that may be a good fit for me to increase my chances, but, any input/advice would be greatly appreciated!

Many thanks!