Dear Forum inhabitants,
I write it to ask your opinion and take a piece of advice.
I am a 27 years old guy from Russia. In 2008 I had completed a study at a Russian agricultural academy. Since then I have been working there as a research assistant and at the same as PhD-student. The theme of my research project is about “the influence of silicon fertilizers on crop”. Now my work is completed and I will to defend my project in this autumn. I have the aim to establish a private research center on plant genetics and the development of new fertilizers. To realize this I need more deep knowledge, therefore I think to do another PhD project, for example about plant biochemistry or genetics, probably in Germany. I think it can give me not only a possibility to raise greatly the level of my professional skills, but also a to learn about the features of the research abroad. I think this is important in view of the fact that Russia remains behind in science.
What do you think – it is good idea to do the second PhD project abroad?
When “yes” I ask you to answer a couple of question:
1. I am still young enough for the second PhD project?
2. Whether will my first PhD degree a hindrance for the application to the second?

Thanks in advance!

Dear colleague

I don't know much about your topic, nor the system of PhDs in Russia. I do happen to know that in my country (Italy) PhDs take ages to complete (sometimes even 7-10 years) and in theory, what you are saying is possible. Having spent almost a decade in the UK, I know that a PhD here is very demanding, therefore the question you should ask yourself is:

Have I got time to do two PhDs at the same time?

If you feel that you need a second PhD to help yourself with your first PhD all you have to do is (in my opinion always) open a few more books about the topic of the second PhD.

Your age is not an issue. 27? I wish I were 27 again :)

I think you should talk to your supervisor. Discuss it with him, tell him about your weaknesses. I am sure he will give you some good advice.

BTW: I did a distance learning course during the first year of my PhD and I remember how much I struggled doing both courses at the same time (considering that my English was much worse back then too).

YES!!! you know what you want to do!!!
just go for it!

1. YES
2. NO

ps: concept of aging is changed now; old is 65 and above (and 50 in African countries) (can't remember the reference but its there)

love satchi

Hi Markov,

Sometimes it's helpful to write to people who are already working in your field, and doing what you want to do: find out their background, and find out what they recommend as far as an education and career trajectory. (You might be pleasantly surprised by what can come out of a little "networking.") It's possible you only need to do more courses in genetics, and not a full degree. On the other hand, if Germany is where your specialization is flourishing, you should probably find a way to get there, and securing an education visa to study abroad will probably be the easiest way to do that.

Thank you for your answers! And sorry for my English.:$