posted about 1 week ago
I am assuming that you are in the UK. How are you funding your PhD? Generally PhDs are funded by the supervisor writing a grant for a specific project and then advertising for that project. Applying for a PhD that way is much like applying for a job and no research proposal required but you don't choose the project. I would say most PhDs are funded this way (I may be wrong and hopefully someone corrects me).
Alternatively, you can get funding yourself through a research council. It is a lot more competitive but you can write your own proposal on your own idea. You will need the support of a university but most lecturers are more than happy to accept you. You can email lecturers directly saying you want to work in their filed/area, a vague of general direction. After which (if they reply) you can send them a draft proposal and talk with them about it. They would not appreciate a list of random ideas, they want to see some enthusiasm and effort. The first email should be about showing an interest followed by a serious conversation.
Having a publication is very good on your application! The 2:1 doesn't matter as you have 10 years experience and should make you a strong candidate on paper. I hope I have answered the right question and goodluck.
