“The technical infrastructure at the OU is great and the people are very knowledgeable.”
I started studying late. I went to university when I was about 25, started with some access courses, and then did a BSc in Cognitive Science at the University of Hertfordshire. After that I was lucky enough to immediately get a job as a researcher here in The Open University’s Knowledge Media Institute, KMi.
“The OU seems to be a hub of research in my field. The facilities are generally excellent.”
After doing my masters degree I was working for Horsham District Council as a research officer, but was finding it limiting compared to the challenge of academic work. I wanted to go back to university and was looking for a funded PhD. I stumbled across The Open University by luck. I came for an interview and was struck by the degree of professionalism. It seemed a very dynamic place – half way between a university and an office environment, and I really liked that.
“I’ve been able to work and study in Oxford as well as benefit from the training and flexibility provided by the OU.”
My discipline is ‘classical reception’, which is a relatively new area of study. The Open University is a world leader in this area – largely as a result of the work of my supervisor, Professor Lorna Hardwick.
“I am glad that through the OU I’ve been able to get this opportunity, particularly the chance to cross different disciplines.”
I worked for an NGO in Zimbabwe for about five years, on biotechnology projects involving small-scale farmers, before taking up a research studentship at the OU in 2005. My motivation came from encountering the GM (Genetically Modified) food debate and trying to understand how emerging technologies are regulated – especially for the benefit of the poor end-users: small scale farmers and consumers.
“I’m thoroughly enjoying my research degree and I’d recommend it to anyone.”
Before coming to London to work as a social worker, I was a social worker in South Africa and have been keen to do some research to help me better understand some of the problems of the people I was helping. So when a friend told me about OU research scholarships, I decided to apply.
“The OU is a wonderful, unique organisation for PhD study.”
The first thing I would say to anyone thinking of doing a PhD with the OU is to start by doing the MRes – Master of Research – because it’s such excellent training!
“I’m thoroughly enjoying myself!”
I did envisage going into industry after my doctorate but I’ve enjoyed my OU experience so much I might well stay in academia!
“The facilities are great, academics are available to talk to, and support is available.”
My main research focus is on self-harm – which is when someone deliberately causes injury to themselves, by cutting, burning, biting, scratching or even bone breaking. A lot of my work has looked at things that people find uncomfortable, or society doesn’t like.
“I don’t think I would have ended up in this career without my PhD. The experience I got at the OU gave me a running start. ”
I chose do a PhD at The Open University because the project I was offered was just up my street – ‘Looking at data from Titan, Saturn’s largest moon’.
“I’m very happy here and very satisfied with the facilities and with the people I’m working with”
I was living in the UK and studying towards an accountancy qualification, I was about to finish my course when the recession came, and people were struggling for jobs. Someone suggested to me, “if you are interested in a PhD look at what The Open University offers”. Before that I didn’t know the OU did research degrees. I was surprised when I looked at their website at the range of research going on and the academics that were there.
Research degrees
Your questions
For advice about applying for a research degree, or sponsoring a research student, send us an email or call +44 (0)1908 654882.