Dr Clíona Farrell - Journey to a PhD: How to write a standout CV and Cover Letter

Dr Clíona Farrell, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website. In the second of her three-part series Clíona offers practical advice for those applying to PhD programmes. She begins by discussing the importance of tailoring applications to specific projects and carefully reading job descriptions to meet both essential and desirable criteria. Clíona outlines the key components of a standout application: a clear, concise CV that highlights relevant education, research experience, and skills, and a personalised cover letter that demonstrates enthusiasm for the project and lab.   She recommends structuring the cover letter into two parts: the first part focuses on how the applicant's skills and experience make them suitable for the position, using evidence-based examples, while the second part explains why they are interested in the specific lab and project. Dr Farrell emphasises the importance of proofreading and personalising each application to improve chances of success. Remember... not to be discouraged by missing one or two skills and apply confidently. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-how-to-write-a-standout-cv-and-cover-letter/ #PhDPosition #PhDLife #PhDFunding #PhDApplications -- Dr Clíona Farrell is a Postdoctoral Researcher in the UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London. Her work focuses on understanding neuroinflammation in Down syndrome, both prior to, and in response to, Alzheimer’s disease pathology. Originally from Dublin, Ireland, Clíona completed her undergraduate degree in Neuroscience in Trinity College, and then worked as a research assistant in the Royal College of Surgeons studying ALS and Parkinson’s disease. She also knows the secret behind scopping the perfect 99 ice-cream cone. @ClionaFarrell_ -- Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support. -- Follow us on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/ https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/ https://twitter.com/demrescommunity https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social