Natasha Joyce is a historian, researcher, and PhD candidate at La Trobe University in Bendigo. Her research focuses on accidental childhood fatalities during Victoria's gold rush era. Known as the 'Victorian Historian', she enjoys sharing her expertise with the public through storytelling and expert commentary. Natasha has appeared on national television shows, such as Who Do You Think You Are. With 25 years of experience in labour relations and capacity building, she integrates her historical knowledge with a dedication to public advocacy and volunteers for several local community groups.

In this episode we reflect on the question that many people struggle with - “when is it the right time to start a PhD?”

Tash reflects on her own journey into the PhD. She talks about balancing doctoral studies with other life responsibilities. She also identifies the benefits of being a mature PhD candidate.

Tash shares advice about managing academic challenges and personal health issues.

We explore the importance of having the right support system - including tea and biscuits!

We conclude with considering the real life benefits of the PhD.

You can read a transcript of the episode here: thephdliferaft.com

If you would like a useful weekly email to support you on your PhD journey you can sign up for ‘Notes from the Life Raft’ here: https://mailchi.mp/f2dce91955c6/notes-from-the-life-raft

In this episode we explore the value of being brave and passionate in research.

Cilla shares her own journey into research leadership and identifies the most important research skills to develop.

We consider strategies for building research collaborations and Cilla shares advice on how to maintain authenticity while navigating the ideas of others.

You can find out more about Cilla’s work here:

NIHR ARC South London Applied Research Leadership Academy | ARC South London

https://arc-sl.nihr.ac.uk/events-training/events-training/nihr-arc-south-london-applied-research-leadership-academy-0

Kingston University launches academy to support academics and PhD students to become research leaders - News - Kingston University London

https://www.kingston.ac.uk/news/article/2647/18-mar-2022-kingston-university-launches-academy-to-support-academics-and-phd-students-to-become-research-leaders/

Researcher Development Concordat – Platform of Practice (vitae.ac.uk)

You can read a transcript of the episode here: thephdliferaft.com

If you would like a useful weekly email to support you on your PhD journey you can sign up for ‘Notes from the Life Raft’ here: https://mailchi.mp/f2dce91955c6/notes-from-the-life-raft

Cynthia Fasola is doctoral candidate at the University of Greenwich with a background as a research manager. Her Phd explores feedback practices and the barriers that people from ethnic minority backgrounds face within academia.

In this episode we talk about building confidence and strong foundations in the PhD process.

Cynthia shares advice on navigating the PhD application process.

She reflects on the significance of the supervisory relationship and the importance of finding the right person for you!

Cynthia also touches on the importance on reflecting on your own motivations and challenges in order that you can put the right support in place.

You can connect with Cynthia here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-fasola

You can read a transcript of the episode here: thephdliferaft.com

If you would like a useful weekly email to support you on your PhD journey you can sign up for ‘Notes from the Life Raft’ here: https://mailchi.mp/f2dce91955c6/notes-from-the-life-raft