Please help me with my Motivation Letter for PhD

Question

Hi Guys,I am writing this motivation letter to approach a supervisor to accept me in his/her research group as PhD candidate. This is my first draft. Please help me to improve this letter. Thank you.Dear Dr. D,I am writing to apply for Ph.D. in XYZ at the ABC University, xxxx.I had keen interest in the field of Biotechnology and biochemistry, so after completing my schooling I took admission in one of the best institutes having international fame, Kishinchand Chellaram College, which is affiliated to the Mumbai University. I opted for a three year degree course in Life – Sciences & Biochemistry with Environmental Sciences as the Applied Component. Along with my degree course I also opted for three year Add-on Diploma course in Biotechnology at same college. During my three year Bachelor of Science study I was exposed to a wide range of courses, which demand a profound knowledge of biological sciences and its application to various technical & research related problems. During my course, I underwent training at the “Pathology Department of Bombay Hospital” for a period of one month.I completed Masters in Biotechnology from RMIT University, Melbourne. The curriculum of my course modules has covered a wide range of topics in molecular biology and protein technologies. My research project focused on study of interaction between Fasciola hepatica Cathepsin B protease which is involved in parasite’s nutrition, protection and host invasion and type I cystatin, a cysteine protease inhibitor. This research project not only helped me master my lab skills and in silico methods pertaining to protein –protein interactions, but also gave me an insight into how labs and experiments work in professional environment. It also heightened my passion for research.During under graduation studies I was involved in various extra-curricular activities like the culture club and intercollegiate festival ‘Kiran’. Due to my dedication and hard work I was appointed as the Vice – President of the K. C. College Nature Club (K.C.N.C) and the President for the following year which allowed me to organize various public awareness and welfare programs, rallies and Exhibition. Was also active participant of National Service Scheme (NSS) were we had organized public awareness and literacy program in remote villages of Maharashtra. Overtime, I have assumed the roles of a team member, assistant manager and most recently Tutor. These experiences not only improved my interpersonal skills but also taught me to function at a peak level while operating in chaos, all the while working harmoniously with my fellow teammates. At RMIT, my interaction with people from different countries with diverse traditions and cultures has certainly fortified those skills.I want to study at ABC because your active research going on at your university on xxxxxxxxxx.I am certain that, if given the opportunity, I will enjoy working on the research project in your group. Furthermore, because of personal passion for research, I will do my best to exceed your expectations. In addition to my academic qualifications, I am confident that my international background and interdisciplinary education will add more diversity to your program.Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to your acceptance.Sincerely yours,Umang Shah

MountainHiker · Accepted Answer

Hi,

You caught me at an extremely busy time (1). So I am unable to commit to helping you. If I can help you, I will. However, you should be prepared to do your own work or find others to assist you.

(1) OP contacted me offline.

I had a quick look at your letter. I will give you a "boilerplate" response and some comments.

MH

Here are some posts you should review. These posts will give you some ideas on the structure of your letter.

(part i has a link to part ii)

Here are some comments:

1) You're telling me a "Once upon a time story." Don't do that. Instead, tell me what I need to know. In other words, what special attributes do you possess that makes you an ideal candidate?

2) Did you run your letter through MS Word grammar checker? Do that. You'll find errors. Also, make sure you look at the readability statistics. Your letter is hard to read.

3) Whenever you say your learned something or gained something, SHOW ME. Don't just tell me something and expect me to believe you. Instead, show me through words.

>>Was also active participant of National Service Scheme (NSS) were we had organized public awareness and literacy program in remote villages of Maharashtra.

Sounds odd to me...should be: "I was also an active..."?

4) I like that your letter is reasonably brief.

5) Focus on your accomplishments.

6) Also tell me about you. Who are you? What motivates you? What are your passions?

7) Omit obvious stuff.

>>During my three year Bachelor of Science study I was exposed to a wide range of courses, which demand a profound knowledge of biological sciences and its application to various technical & research related problems.

I would expect that, no? I would be surprised if you wrote...

During my three year B.Sc. program, I didn't do much. I sat around, drank beer, and watched tv.

So omit obvious stuff. Really focus on the key essential information.

Again, because I am so busy right now, I might not be able to assist you. You are free to post a revised version. I hope the links I provided help you. If I have the time, I will check and suggest further changes.

Good luck.

UmangShah · Answer

Hi MountainHiker,

Thank you for your feedback, I will review all the post you mentioned. I will make suggested changes and post the revised letter. I hope you might be able to assist me. Once again thaks alot.

Umang.

UmangShah · Answer

Hi MH,

I have reviewed the links you advised me to read and have posted the revised version of my motivation letter. Hope you can review it and suggest any further changes.

Thank you,

Umang

Dear Prof. ***,

I am writing to apply for Ph.D. in Structural Biology at the xxxx University, ***.

I had keen interest in the field of Biotechnology and Biochemistry. Therefore, after completing my schooling I took admission in one of the best institute having international fame, K. C. College, affiliated to the University of Mumbai. I opted for a three-year degree course in Life Sciences & Biochemistry. Along with my degree course, I also opted for three-year Add-on Diploma course in Biotechnology at the same college. During my course, I underwent training at the “Pathology Department of Bombay Hospital” for a period of one month. It heightened my passion for biotechnology.

I completed Masters of Biotechnology from RMIT University, Melbourne. The curriculum of my course modules has covered a wide range of topics in molecular biology, protein technologies and computation biology. I was one of the seven applicants selected for research project. My research project focused on study of interactions between Fasciola hepatica Cathepsin B protease and type I cystatin, a cysteine protease inhibitor. For successful completion of my research project, application of various biochemical assays and in silico techniques were required. This research project not only helped me master my lab skills and in silico methods pertaining to protein –protein interactions, but also gave me an insight into how labs and experiments work in professional environment.

Apart from academics, I was interested in event management and community work. Hence, during my under graduation I joined the culture club and was part of organizing committee of intercollegiate festival ‘Kiran’. Due to my dedication and hard work, I became the Vice President of the K. C. College Nature Club (K.C.N.C) and the President for the following year, which allowed me to organize various public awareness and welfare programs, rallies and exhibitions. I was also an active participant of National Service Scheme (NSS) were we had organized public awareness and literacy program in remote villages of Maharashtra. This helped me sharpen my time management skills.

Overtime, I have assumed the roles of a team member, assistant manager and most recently Tutor. My time at Wipro BPO as Tech support agent, I received number of awards for top member satisfaction, sales and ‘PRAGATI’ for my initiative in making interactive presentation of new operating system and security software, which improved site productivity by seven percent. These experiences not only improved my interpersonal skills but also taught me to function at a peak level while operating in chaos, all the while working harmoniously with my fellow teammates. At RMIT, my interactions with people from different countries with diverse traditions and cultures have certainly fortified those skills.

My thesis work led me to become interested in study of three-dimensional structures of protein as they form the basis of their functions and interaction. I want to study at *** because your active research in study of structure/function relationship of biomolecules and interdisciplinary cooperation. Moreover, this project would strengthen my background in structural biology to pursue my career in the same.

I am certain that, if given the opportunity, I will enjoy working on the research project. Furthermore, because of personal passion for structural biology, I will do my best to exceed your expectations. In addition to my academic qualifications, I am confident that my international background and interdisciplinary education will add diversity to your program.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to your acceptance.

Sincerely yours,

Umang Shah

MountainHiker · Answer

My time is short, so I will make some comments and corrections throughout. You will need to compare versions.

Dear Prof. ***,

I am writing to apply for Ph.D. in Structural Biology at the xx University, ***. (good)

I had ~a~ keen interest in the field of Biotechnology and Biochemistry (but no longer do?). Therefore, after completing my schooling I took admission in one of the best institute having international fame, K. C. College, affiliated to the University of Mumbai (overly wordy and flowery. Just state the facts without the b.s.). I opted for a three-year degree course in Life Sciences & Biochemistry. Along with my degree course, I also opted for three-year Add-on Diploma course in Biotechnology at the same college. During my course, I underwent training at the “Pathology Department of Bombay Hospital” for a period of one month. It heightened my passion for biotechnology. (you have a lot of one short staccato sentences back to back. Read it out loud. Besides, you are enclosing your resume/cv, so why are you telling me something I already know?)

I completed Masters of Biotechnology from RMIT University, Melbourne. The curriculum of my course modules has covered a wide range of topics in molecular biology, protein technologies and computation biology (rather obvious, no?). I was one of the seven applicants selected for research project.(why were you chosen?) My research project focused on study of interactions between Fasciola hepatica Cathepsin B protease and type I cystatin, a cysteine protease inhibitor. For successful completion of my research project, application of various biochemical assays and in silico techniques were required.(stay away from passive sentences.) This research project not only helped me master my lab skills and in silico methods pertaining to protein –protein interactions, but also gave me an insight into how labs and experiments work in professional environment.

Apart from academics, I was interested in event management and community work (again, you are no longer interested?). Hence, during my under graduate studies (changed stuff) I joined the culture club and was part of organizing committee of intercollegiate festival ‘Kiran’. Due to (google "start sentence due to grammar") my dedication and hard work, I became the Vice President of the K. C. College Nature Club (K.C.N.C) and the President for the following year, which allowed me to organize various public awareness and welfare programs, rallies and exhibitions. I was also an active participant of National Service Scheme (NSS) were we had organized public awareness and literacy program in remote villages of Maharashtra. This helped me sharpen my time management skills. (That's it? That's all you learned? All those hours of volunteer activities and you just improved your time management skills?)

Overtime, I have assumed the roles of a team member, assistant manager and most recently Tutor (capitalized?). My time at Wipro BPO as Tech support agent, I received number of awards for top member satisfaction, sales and ‘PRAGATI’ for my initiative in making interactive presentation of new operating system and security software, which improved site productivity by seven percent. These experiences not only improved my interpersonal skills but also taught me to function at a peak level while operating in chaos, all the while working harmoniously with my fellow teammates. At RMIT (?), my interactions with people from different countries with diverse traditions and cultures have certainly fortified those skills.

My thesis work led me to become interested in study of three-dimensional structures of protein as they form the basis of their functions and interaction. I want to study at *** because your active research in study of structure/function (stay away from shorthand slashes) relationship of biomolecules and interdisciplinary cooperation. Moreover, this project would strengthen my background in structural biology to pursue my career in the same. (Your organization leaves a lot to be desired. I start off your letter with objective, then academics, then extracurricular, then jobs or something, now back to proteins. I am lost.)

I am certain that, if given the opportunity, I will enjoy working on the research project. Furthermore, because of personal passion for structural biology, I will do my best to exceed your expectations. In addition to my academic qualifications, I am confident that my international background and interdisciplinary education will add diversity to your program.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to your acceptance.

Sincerely yours,

(You've got the background and smarts. Your letter lacks organization, structure, and marketing of your attributes. If someone asked me to identify your key strengths, I would say something about proteins and biology and time management skills. You need to put more effort into your letter.)

UmangShah · Answer

Hi MH,

Thank you so much for your hints to improve the quality of letter. Based on your suggestions I have revised the letter, I am looking forward for yoour feedback.

Once again thank you. I really appreciated your help.

Umang Shah

Dear Prof. ***,

I am writing to apply for Ph.D. in Structural Biology at the xx University, ***.

To pursue my interest in the field of Biotechnology and Biochemistry I took admission in K. C. College, affiliated to the University of Mumbai. The three-year degree course heightened my passion for biotechnology. I completed Masters of Biotechnology from RMIT University, Melbourne. During my post-graduate studies, Bioinformatics and its application in solving various research related problems fascinated me, this led me to develop interest in homology modelling and 3D structure analysis of proteins as they form basis of their functions.

Based on academic performance and aptitude for computational and wet lab techniques, supervisor selected me for research project. My research project focused on study of interactions between Fasciola hepatica Cathepsin B protease and type I cystatin, a cysteine protease inhibitor. Successful completion of my research project required application of various biochemical assays and in silico techniques like homology modelling and structure analysis, protein-protein docking, etc. This project not only helped me master my lab skills and in silico methods pertaining to protein –protein interactions, but also gave me an insight into how labs and experiments work in professional environment. My thesis work led me to decision of becoming structural biologist.

Apart from academics, I am interested in event management and community work. Hence, during my under graduate studies I joined the culture club and was part of organizing committee of intercollegiate festival ‘Kiran’. Because of my dedication and hard work, I became the Vice President of the K. C. College Nature Club (K.C.N.C) and the President for the following year, which allowed me to organize various public awareness and welfare programs, rallies and exhibitions. I was also an active participant of National Service Scheme (NSS) were we had organized public awareness and literacy program in remote villages of Maharashtra. This helped me sharpen my organizational and time management skills. It also improved my leadership skills.

Overtime, I have assumed the roles of a team member, assistant manager and most recently tutor. My time at Wipro BPO as Tech support agent, I received number of awards for top member satisfaction, sales and ‘PRAGATI’ for my initiative in making interactive presentation of new operating system and security software, which improved site productivity by seven percent. These experiences not only improved my interpersonal skills but also taught me to function at a peak level while operating in chaos, all the while working harmoniously with my fellow teammates. During my post-graduation studies at RMIT, my interactions with people from different countries with diverse traditions and cultures have certainly fortified those skills.

I want to study at *** because your active research in study of structure-function relationship of biomolecules and interdisciplinary cooperation. Moreover, this project would strengthen my background in structural biology to pursue my career in the same.

I am certain that, if given the opportunity, I will enjoy working on the research project. Furthermore, because of personal passion for structural biology, I will do my best to exceed your expectations. In addition to my academic qualifications, I am confident that my international background and interdisciplinary education will add diversity to your program.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to your acceptance.

Sincerely yours,

UmangShah · Answer

Hi MH,

Thank you so much for your hints to improve the quality of letter. Based on your suggestions I have revised the letter, I am looking forward for yoour feedback.

Once again thank you. I really appreciated your help.

Umang Shah

Dear Prof. ***,

I am writing to apply for Ph.D. in Structural Biology at the xx University, ***.

To pursue my interest in the field of Biotechnology and Biochemistry I took admission in K. C. College, affiliated to the University of Mumbai. The three-year degree course heightened my passion for biotechnology. I completed Masters of Biotechnology from RMIT University, Melbourne. During my post-graduate studies, Bioinformatics and its application in solving various research related problems fascinated me, this led me to develop interest in homology modelling and 3D structure analysis of proteins as they form basis of their functions.

Based on academic performance and aptitude for computational and wet lab techniques, supervisor selected me for research project. My research project focused on study of interactions between Fasciola hepatica Cathepsin B protease and type I cystatin, a cysteine protease inhibitor. Successful completion of my research project required application of various biochemical assays and in silico techniques like homology modelling and structure analysis, protein-protein docking, etc. This project not only helped me master my lab skills and in silico methods pertaining to protein –protein interactions, but also gave me an insight into how labs and experiments work in professional environment. My thesis work led me to decision of becoming structural biologist.

Apart from academics, I am interested in event management and community work. Hence, during my under graduate studies I joined the culture club and was part of organizing committee of intercollegiate festival ‘Kiran’. Because of my dedication and hard work, I became the Vice President of the K. C. College Nature Club (K.C.N.C) and the President for the following year, which allowed me to organize various public awareness and welfare programs, rallies and exhibitions. I was also an active participant of National Service Scheme (NSS) were we had organized public awareness and literacy program in remote villages of Maharashtra. This helped me sharpen my organizational and time management skills. It also improved my leadership skills.

Overtime, I have assumed the roles of a team member, assistant manager and most recently tutor. My time at Wipro BPO as Tech support agent, I received number of awards for top member satisfaction, sales and ‘PRAGATI’ for my initiative in making interactive presentation of new operating system and security software, which improved site productivity by seven percent. These experiences not only improved my interpersonal skills but also taught me to function at a peak level while operating in chaos, all the while working harmoniously with my fellow teammates. During my post-graduation studies at RMIT, my interactions with people from different countries with diverse traditions and cultures have certainly fortified those skills.

I want to study at *** because your active research in study of structure-function relationship of biomolecules and interdisciplinary cooperation. Moreover, this project would strengthen my background in structural biology to pursue my career in the same.

I am certain that, if given the opportunity, I will enjoy working on the research project. Furthermore, because of personal passion for structural biology, I will do my best to exceed your expectations. In addition to my academic qualifications, I am confident that my international background and interdisciplinary education will add diversity to your program.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to your acceptance.

Sincerely yours,

UmangShah · Answer

Hi MH,

Thank you so much for your hints to improve the quality of letter. Based on your suggestions I have revised the letter, I am looking forward for yoour feedback.

Once again thank you. I really appreciated your help.

Umang Shah

Dear Prof. ***,

I am writing to apply for Ph.D. in Structural Biology at the xx University, ***.

To pursue my interest in the field of Biotechnology and Biochemistry I took admission in K. C. College, affiliated to the University of Mumbai. The three-year degree course heightened my passion for biotechnology. I completed Masters of Biotechnology from RMIT University, Melbourne. During my post-graduate studies, Bioinformatics and its application in solving various research related problems fascinated me, this led me to develop interest in homology modelling and 3D structure analysis of proteins as they form basis of their functions.

Based on academic performance and aptitude for computational and wet lab techniques, supervisor selected me for research project. My research project focused on study of interactions between Fasciola hepatica Cathepsin B protease and type I cystatin, a cysteine protease inhibitor. Successful completion of my research project required application of various biochemical assays and in silico techniques like homology modelling and structure analysis, protein-protein docking, etc. This project not only helped me master my lab skills and in silico methods pertaining to protein –protein interactions, but also gave me an insight into how labs and experiments work in professional environment. My thesis work led me to decision of becoming structural biologist.

Apart from academics, I am interested in event management and community work. Hence, during my under graduate studies I joined the culture club and was part of organizing committee of intercollegiate festival ‘Kiran’. Because of my dedication and hard work, I became the Vice President of the K. C. College Nature Club (K.C.N.C) and the President for the following year, which allowed me to organize various public awareness and welfare programs, rallies and exhibitions. I was also an active participant of National Service Scheme (NSS) were we had organized public awareness and literacy program in remote villages of Maharashtra. This helped me sharpen my organizational and time management skills. It also improved my leadership skills.

Overtime, I have assumed the roles of a team member, assistant manager and most recently tutor. My time at Wipro BPO as Tech support agent, I received number of awards for top member satisfaction, sales and ‘PRAGATI’ for my initiative in making interactive presentation of new operating system and security software, which improved site productivity by seven percent. These experiences not only improved my interpersonal skills but also taught me to function at a peak level while operating in chaos, all the while working harmoniously with my fellow teammates. During my post-graduation studies at RMIT, my interactions with people from different countries with diverse traditions and cultures have certainly fortified those skills.

I want to study at *** because your active research in study of structure-function relationship of biomolecules and interdisciplinary cooperation. Moreover, this project would strengthen my background in structural biology to pursue my career in the same.

I am certain that, if given the opportunity, I will enjoy working on the research project. Furthermore, because of personal passion for structural biology, I will do my best to exceed your expectations. In addition to my academic qualifications, I am confident that my international background and interdisciplinary education will add diversity to your program.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to your acceptance.

Sincerely yours,

MountainHiker · Answer

Your letter is better, but not great. You are definitely smart enough. And you know English. It's not as though English is your second language. Your letter, however, still leaves me cold. Have a read through my comments in your letter.

MH

Dear Prof. ***,

I am writing to apply (to) Ph.D. (program) in Structural Biology at the xx University, ***.

To pursue my interest in the field of Biotechnology and Biochemistry I took admission in K. C. College, affiliated to the University of Mumbai. The three-year degree course heightened my passion for biotechnology. I completed Masters of Biotechnology from RMIT University, Melbourne. During my post-graduate studies, Bioinformatics and its application in solving various research related problems fascinated me, this led me to develop interest in homology modelling and 3D structure analysis of proteins as they form basis of their functions.(read this last sentence out loud. Isn't it a run-on?)

To pursue my interest in the field of Biotechnology and Biochemistry I earned X degree at K. C. College, affiliated to the University of Mumbai. I then completed Masters of Biotechnology from RMIT University, Melbourne. During my post-graduate studies, I became fascinated by bioinformatics and its application in solving various research related problems fascinated me. This fascination led to my interest in homology modelling and 3D structure analysis of proteins as they form basis of their functions. (I don't understand the technical stuff. Not sure that you need to state all the technical stuff either.)

Based on academic performance and aptitude for computational and wet lab techniques, (my) supervisor selected me for research project. My research project focused on study of interactions between Fasciola hepatica Cathepsin B protease and type I cystatin, a cysteine protease inhibitor. Successful completion of my research project required application of (advanced) biochemical assays and in silico techniques (such as) homology modelling and structure analysis, protein-protein docking, etc. (Never ever use "etc." in a formal letter. Etc. means that you don't know any more. You have exhausted your limited knowledge.) This project not only helped me master my lab skills and in silico methods pertaining to protein –protein interactions, but also gave me an insight into how labs and experiments work in professional environment. My thesis work led me to decision of becoming structural biologist. (You have lots of "leds". It's repetitive.)

Apart from academics, I am interested in event management and community work. Hence, during my under graduate studies I joined the culture club and was part of organizing committee of intercollegiate festival ("Kiran"). Because of my dedication and hard work, I became the Vice President of the K. C. College Nature Club (K.C.N.C) and the President for the following year, which allowed me to organize various public awareness and welfare programs, rallies and exhibitions. I was also an active participant of National Service Scheme (NSS) were we had organized public awareness and literacy program in remote villages of Maharashtra. This helped me sharpen my organizational and time management skills. It also improved my leadership skills. (Rather than just stating what you gained, demonstrate. I organized x, a major festival on time and on budget.)

Overtime (one word or two, are you working beyond your normal schedule overtime or is it a passage of time over time), I have assumed the roles of a team member, assistant manager and most recently tutor. My time at Wipro BPO as Tech support agent, I received number of awards for top member satisfaction, sales and ‘PRAGATI’ for my initiative in making interactive presentation of new operating system and security software, which improved site productivity by seven percent. These experiences not only improved my interpersonal skills but also taught me to function at a peak level while operating in chaos, all the while working harmoniously with my fellow teammates. During my post-graduation studies at RMIT, my interactions with people from different countries with diverse traditions and cultures have certainly fortified those skills.

I want to study at *** because your active research in study of structure-function relationship of biomolecules and interdisciplinary cooperation. Moreover, this project would strengthen my background in structural biology to pursue my career in the same.

I am certain that, if given the opportunity, I will enjoy working on the research project. Furthermore, because of personal passion for structural biology, I will do my best to exceed your expectations. In addition to my academic qualifications, I am confident that my international background and interdisciplinary education will add diversity to your program. (good)

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to your acceptance.

Sincerely yours,

Overall your letter is not bad. It just lacks some magic. Show some personality, some drive and ambition. Right now, it seems as though it was written by a computer. I hope that helps.

UmangShah · Answer

Hi MH,

Thank you so so much for your immediate response and helpful comments. Based on your suggestions I have revised the letter, I am looking forward for your feedback.

Once again thank you. I really appreciate your help.

Umang Shah

Dear Prof. ***,

I am writing to apply to Ph.D. program in Structural Biology at the xx University, ***. This is a concrete step towards my goal of becoming structural biologist.

To pursue my interest in the field of Biotechnology and Biochemistry I earned X degree at K. C. College, affiliated to the University of Mumbai. I then completed Masters of Biotechnology from RMIT University, Melbourne. During my post-graduate studies, I became fascinated by bioinformatics and its application in solving various research related problems. This fascination led to my interest in homology modelling and 3D structure analysis of proteins as they form basis of their functions.

Based on academic performance and aptitude for computational and wet lab techniques, my supervisor selected me for research project. My research project focused on study of interactions between Fasciola hepatica Cathepsin B protease and type I cystatin, a cysteine protease inhibitor. Successful completion of my research project required application of advanced biochemical assays and in silico techniques such as homology modelling and structure analysis, protein-protein docking. This project not only helped me master my lab skills and in silico methods pertaining to protein –protein interactions, but also gave me an insight into how labs and experiments work in professional environment. My thesis work and discussion with my supervisor and with visiting faculty members from industry, Dr. David Chalmers and Mike Kuiper motivated me to the decision of becoming structural biologist.

Apart from academics, I am interested in event management and community work. Hence, during my under graduate studies I joined the culture club and was part of organizing committee of intercollegiate festival ("Kiran"). Because of my dedication and hard work, I became the Vice President of the K. C. College Nature Club (K.C.N.C) and the President for the following year, which allowed me to organize various public awareness and welfare programs, rallies and exhibitions. I was also an active participant of National Service Scheme (NSS) were we had organized public awareness and literacy program in remote villages of Maharashtra. I organized ‘NatureFest’, a major festival on budget and on time. This helped me sharpen my organizational and time management skills. It also improved my leadership skills.

Over time, I have assumed the roles of a team member, assistant manager and most recently tutor. My time at Wipro BPO as Tech support agent, I received number of awards for top member satisfaction, sales and ‘PRAGATI’ for my initiative in making interactive presentation of new operating system and security software, which improved site productivity by seven percent. These experiences not only improved my interpersonal skills but also taught me to function at a peak level while operating in chaos, all the while working harmoniously with my fellow teammates. During my post-graduation studies at RMIT, my interactions with people from different countries with diverse traditions and cultures have certainly fortified those skills.

I want to study at *** because your active research in study of structure-function relationship of biomolecules and interdisciplinary cooperation. Moreover, this project would strengthen my background in structural biology to pursue my career in the same.

I am certain that, if given the opportunity, I will enjoy working on the research project. Furthermore, because of personal passion for structural biology, I will do my best to exceed your expectations. In addition to my academic qualifications, I am confident that my international background and interdisciplinary education will add diversity to your program.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to your acceptance.

Sincerely yours,

Anonymous · Answer

Hi MH,

I have made few changes to my previous draft, if you could review it and give me a feedback. I am really thankful for all you help and guidance.

I am looking forward to your feedback. Hope you are doing well.

Thank you,

Umang

Dear Prof. ***,

I am writing to apply to Ph.D. program in Structural Biology at the xx University, ***. This is a concrete step towards my goal of becoming structural biologist.

To pursue my interest in the field of Biotechnology and Biochemistry I earned Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences and biochemistry at K. C. College, affiliated to the University of Mumbai. I then completed Masters of Biotechnology from RMIT University, Melbourne. During my post-graduate studies, I became fascinated by bioinformatics and its application in solving various research related problems. This fascination led to my interest in homology modelling and 3D structure analysis of proteins as they form basis of their functions.

Based on academic performance and aptitude for computational and wet lab techniques, my supervisor selected me for research project. My research project focused on study of interactions between Fasciola hepatica Cathepsin B protease and type I cystatin, a cysteine protease inhibitor. Successful completion of my research project required application of advanced biochemical assays and in silico techniques such as homology modelling and structure analysis, protein-protein docking. This project not only helped me master my lab skills and in silico methods pertaining to protein –protein interactions, but also gave me an insight into how labs and experiments work in professional environment. My thesis work and discussion with my supervisor and with visiting faculty members from industry, Dr. David Chalmers and Mike Kuiper motivated me to the decision of becoming structural biologist.

Apart from academics, I am interested in event management and community work. Hence, during my under graduate studies I joined the culture club and was part of organizing committee of intercollegiate festival ("Kiran"). Because of my dedication and hard work, I became the Vice President of the K. C. College Nature Club (K.C.N.C) and the President for the following year, which allowed me to organize various public awareness and welfare programs, rallies and exhibitions. I was also an active participant of National Service Scheme (NSS) were we had organized public awareness and literacy program in remote villages of Maharashtra. In 2005-06, as president of K.C.N.C, I organized ‘NatureFest’, an intercollegiate festival, theme based on nature and environment. It was a success with 72 colleges participating, events on schedule and sponsorship of three times the actual budget. Due to the success of the festival and enthusiasm of participants and volunteers, it is included in college’s yearly events. This helped me sharpen my organizational and time management skills. It also improved my leadership skills.

Over time, I have assumed the roles of a team member, assistant manager and most recently tutor. My time at Wipro BPO as Tech support agent, I received number of awards for top member satisfaction, sales and ‘PRAGATI’ for my initiative in making interactive presentation of new operating system and security software, which improved site productivity by seven percent. These experiences not only improved my interpersonal skills but also taught me to function at a peak level while operating in chaos, all the while working harmoniously with my fellow teammates. During my post-graduation studies at RMIT, my interactions with people from different countries with diverse traditions and cultures have certainly fortified those skills.

I want to study at *** because your active research in study of structure-function relationship of biomolecules and interdisciplinary cooperation. Moreover, this program will give me an opportunity to work on molecular modelling for which I have developed a passion.

I am certain that, if given the opportunity, I will enjoy working on the research project. Furthermore, because of personal passion for structural biology, I will do my best to exceed your expectations. In addition to my academic qualifications, I am confident that my international background and interdisciplinary education will add diversity to your program.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to your acceptance.

Sincerely yours,

Please help me with my Motivation Letter for PhD

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