This guidance on writing a research proposal has been adapted from advice for applicants from Heriot-Watt University.

One of the most crucial parts of a PhD application is the research proposal. This shows that you have thought a bit about what you want to research and so makes you a more attractive candidate: it also helps potential supervisors to see if you are in their area of interest. The research proposal helps us understand how you have thought about research and the background work that you have done. However, if you join us as a PhD student it will inevitably change as you have discussions with your supervisor and learn more about the topic. Sometimes, students completely change their ideas. This is OK – you do not have to do the work that you have defined in your proposal.
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