# Seeking Advice: Navigating PhD Applications in Gravitational Wave Research Without Publications

**URL:** <https://ask.igwn.org/t/seeking-advice-navigating-phd-applications-in-gravitational-wave-research-without-publications/1394>\
**Category:** Careers and Conferences\
**Created:** [October 16, 2025, 11:00am UTC](https://ask.igwn.org/t/seeking-advice-navigating-phd-applications-in-gravitational-wave-research-without-publications/1394 "2025-10-16T11:00:03Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![Anwesha](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/a/3da27b/32.png) [@Anwesha](https://ask.igwn.org/u/Anwesha)\
**Post date:** [October 16, 2025, 11:00am UTC](https://ask.igwn.org/t/seeking-advice-navigating-phd-applications-in-gravitational-wave-research-without-publications/1394/1 "2025-10-16T11:00:04Z")

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Here’s a concise version you can post in the **GW forum (Career category):**

> Hi!
> 
> I recently completed my MSc in Astrophysics at the University of Glasgow with a dissertation on ‘Laser interferometry for gravitational wave detection’, involving modelling (pygwinc, FINESSE 3) and tabletop interferometer experiments. I’m now looking for PhD opportunities in gravitational wave instrumentation and/or data analysis, but many programs cite funding or lack of publications as reasons for rejection—how can I best navigate this and find someone willing to give me a chance?