I commented on another thread....I passed my Viva on Tuesday 11th July with only minor corrections (4-5 days of easy enough work). I have received an offer of some work already for September (although it is not a permanent contract but its still good). So I am very happy, the Viva was good but tough.

I passed my PhD defense, both the internal and external examiners were very happy with the thesis and I only received minimal corrections (about 4-5 days work). The nerves left me as soon as I started talking so that was good and the examiners really put me at ease. So all in all, a very good result.

Thanks again for all your suggestions, it really did help.

I know a few people who took research technician jobs after a PhD and they done great. Not only were they earning money (for the first time in years), they were getting loads of experience. They also saw what researchers needed and were able to tailor their CVs to show that they know more than just their own research field. Unless you really think that you will get a better job soon then I would saw go for it, it alwts seems easier to get a job when you have a job already.

Thanks guys...this all really helps.

In relation to papers, I don't have any published as its a palaeoecology thesis and it takes a long time to get all the results in, so its rare to have papers published. However I do have outline ideas for papers that I want to publish and each results chapter in my thesis is set out with a paper in mind and that is how it is normally done in my university.

The Viva is tomorrow so I will know soon enough if it all works out for me :)

Thanks so much....that really helps me. Two members of my department are going to do a mock Viva with me today...so that will help also. I just want it to be over with :) Thanks so much again

Hey, I just completed it (I hope)...went onto a page and it just said that I have already taken it...but I hadnt. I hope it works and good luck

I cant believe I only found this forum now...I am so annoyed that I didn't look for something like this years ago.

Anyways my thesis defense is next week and I am a bag of nerves...so much that even looking at my thesis makes me want to vomit. Some of my friends went through their Vivas recently and they all came out really good and so positive...I feel that has given me extra stress in case mine doesn't go as well :( I know everyone is different but I cant help comparing myself to them. When I ask them questions they just keep saying what a great experience it was and how I shouldn't worry...this isn't helping as I would prefer just some practical advise. Has anyone some good suggestions about how they deal with nerves or preparing for the viva??
Anything would be much appreciated