PhD Studies at the ANU

Lachlan Blackhall

A Little About Me

Be/BSc (University of Sydney) – Completed 2006 PhD (ANU) – Since March 2007• Control Theory.• Complex Systems/Networks.• Electricity/Power Networks.

PhD - Philosophiae Doctor?

Or: • Patiently hoping for a Degree.

• Probably heavily in Debt.

• Piled higher and Deeper.

PhD – In Simple Terms

A Day in the Life of a PhD Student

Research Classes Teaching

Opportunities Travel / Conferences Collaboration Intellectual Stimulation Clubs and Sports

Requirements

Dedication and Perseverance.

Be able to live your PhD.

Be good academically and preparedto make yourself better.

Have other interests to keep you sane.

Deciding to do a PhD

Find a good supervisor:• Talk to current students.• Availability.• More famous generally means less available.• More famous means more contacts and resources.

Find a good topic:• Interests you.• “Fun”.• Relevant.

Not Necessarily in that Order!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Final Thoughts

Your PhD is one of the last bastions of intellectual freedom. Use it to become a fuller person. If you are only doing it for the qualification then think twice. It is an adventure and a roller coaster. Most importantly – HAVE FUN