I've got a proposal for a phd. I've been emailing various academics at different universities offering phd funding. In my emails I've given them an idea of what I want to do for my phd. One of them asked for more info and so I sent them my whole proposal (references, experiment ideas, everything) and they got back to me saying that it sounds interesting but it was out of their research area.

Do you think they'll take the project and run with it? Do you think I should email them outright saying that it's my idea and I want it in writing that they won't take it? Help!!

Or do you simply think that they find it interesting but it isn't exactly what they study?

Hi student_32. I think you should take their comments at face value, it's completely legitimate for them to have asked for more information, and then have declined to take you on. They're being encouraging in saying your project is interesting is all, most academics are far too busy and caught up with their own research to try and steal a student's idea. Please don't email them to accuse them of that, in my opinion you'll sound very unprofessional and may burn bridges which will be important to you in your future career.

hi! I don't think they will run with your project, don't worry. Just keep looking for other PhD oppportunities!

love satchi

Hi Student_32,

Please don't worry about academics claiming your project as their own. I have emailed my detailed proposal outlining literature review, methodology, data collection strategy, data analysis etc. in great detail to various Universities and academics and have frequently received a polite reply stating that though the project is very interesting; it is outside of their research expertise - (I assume) basically a standard reply to those whom they do not wish to supervise for whatever reason. This does not at all mean that they are planning on running your project! As Maccle pointed out - it would appear extremely unprofessional and may impact you in the long run. Good luck with your application - hopefully, you will be accepted by a University very soon!