Are you working on a PhD or considering starting one? You will quickly encounter terms such as PhD candidate, supervisor, dissertation and defence. But what does pursuing a PhD actually mean? And how do you ensure you are well prepared for this intensive journey?
In this blog article we explain what pursuing a PhD entails, what role a PhD candidate has and how you can best prepare yourself.
In this article:
✦ What is pursuing a PhD?
✦ What does a PhD candidate do?
✦ The thesis
✦ Title: from PhD candidate to doctor
✦ How do you prepare as a PhD candidate?
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What is pursuing a PhD?
According to the dictionary, the literal meaning of pursuing a PhD is: to obtain the degree of doctor. The term is used for both the research phase and the PhD defence ceremony.
Pursuing a PhD is a multi-year journey in which you conduct independent scientific research as a researcher, generate new knowledge and record this in a thesis. It requires not only academic skills, but also perseverance, creativity and resilience.
What does a PhD candidate do?
A PhD candidate conducts scientific research and records the results in a thesis. During the research and writing of the thesis, the PhD candidate is supervised by a professor. The professor is also often evaluated on the final result. During the research and writing phase, this professor is called the “intended supervisor”. Just before the actual promotion takes place (that is, the PhD defence ceremony), the professor is appointed as supervisor.
The PhD candidate often also has a daily supervisor. In most cases, this is a university lecturer. This person can also be a co-supervisor (even if they are not a professor).
In addition to research and writing, a PhD candidate often has other tasks, such as teaching seminars, publishing articles in scientific journals and presenting research results at conferences.
The Thesis
The research and its results are recorded by the PhD candidate in a thesis, also called a dissertation. This work is assessed by a manuscript committee. During the PhD defence ceremony, this thesis is defended by the PhD candidate. A thesis can also consist of a combination of several articles. Please note: these may not have been published before.
A thesis is more than just a report of your research. It is proof of your ability to conduct independent scientific research and contribute to scientific knowledge in your field.
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Title: from PhD candidate to doctor
You have already seen the term “PhD candidate” several times. As long as someone is working on research and a thesis, that title is used.
Once the defence of the thesis and the awarding of the diploma have taken place, the title “doctor” is used. You may now place this title before your name (Dr.) and it testifies to your scientific expertise.
How do you prepare as a PhD candidate?
As a PhD candidate, it is wise to prepare yourself well before you actually start. Both in a practical sense and in terms of attitude.
In practice, the time investment is often much greater than expected. By being aware of this now, you can organize your life accordingly (in other words: block time in your calendar). Do this as early as possible; you do not want to be playing catch-up after just a few months.
As a PhD candidate, you will need to stand firm. Are you starting with an existing research proposal? A common pitfall is that you do not dare to be critical and “go with the flow”. In addition, as a PhD candidate you are faced with many new situations anyway. You are constantly doing things you have not done before. It is one big learning process. This combination can feel uncomfortable, with the result that you stay on familiar paths.
Make a conscious decision in advance to push the boundaries of your own abilities. Seize all those learning moments. Make your voice heard. That is how you will find your passion, and you really need that as a PhD candidate!
Practical tips for a good start:
• Create a realistic timeline and build in buffer for setbacks
• Discuss expectations clearly with your supervisor and daily supervisor
• Connect with other PhD candidates for support and exchange
• Invest in your mental and physical health
Ready for the next step?
Pursuing a PhD is a challenging but valuable journey. With the right preparation, guidance and mindset, you can successfully complete this and be proud of what you have achieved.
Are you already thinking about printing your thesis? At Gildeprint we understand how important this moment is for you. We have been helping PhD candidates for years with the professional and careful printing of their thesis.
