Is 31 too late to start a PhD abroad?
Hi, I am 31(F) and considering applying for PhD programs abroad, including both the US and Europe/UK, mainly in biosciences, biotechnology, computational biology, or related fields. I have a BS in Biosciences, an MS in Biotechnology, 9 research publications, previous experience as a Research Officer, and more than 3 years of experience in data analytics after transitioning away from research. I am now interested in moving back toward research, particularly computational biology/bioinformatics. Academically, I believe I meet the basic requirements for the programs I am looking at, but I am wondering whether my profile is actually competitive enough for funded PhD positions, especially in the US where the application process can be quite different. By the time I potentially start, I could be 32–33. Does that matter much in practice, and would my transition from research into data analytics be seen as a disadvantage or could it actually work in my favor for computational fields?
I’d also really appreciate honest advice from women who have gone through something similar. As a single woman from Pakistan, how difficult is it realistically to go through the entire process, from applications and interviews to visas and eventually moving abroad alone? I am not asking whether it’s possible, but more about what the process is actually like emotionally, financially, socially, and practically. I’d love to hear from people who have made a similar move, particularly those who started their PhD in their early 30s.
TIA!