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How to Write a Motivation Letter For Masters, PhD and Postdoc

Motivation Letter examples

A well-written motivation letter can help the admissions committee or professor to assess outstanding students against outstanding ones. With the help of a motivation letter, they are able to succeed in securing the most qualified research students. But admissions committees will definitely consider this as a method to find the most suitable candidate for their research group. The way you present yourself is contingent on the content you write however, it is the way you write your writing, specifically your tone and the amount of attention you get from your writing. It’s significantly.

When applying for the position of a Ph.D. or Postdoc or any research job You will have to submit the research proposal as well as an Motivation Letter. Particularly, a motivational letter is required to Ph.D. candidates. This explains the reason you’d like to pursue that job and also why you are suitable for the program. But what is the most important thing to consider into this and what tone would be appropriate to convey this? We’ll give you some suggestions Today, we’re going to share the most important motivation letters, so that you know what you need to include in your motivational letter to be filled in or change.

How to Write a Motivation Letter For Masters, PhD and Postdoc

A motivation letter shares numerous similarities to an application letter or a personal statement. Institutions are not obligated to provide all of them. It is, however, distinct and must treat it accordingly. For supporting an PhD request, this distinction is not as clear and all three documents are designed to demonstrate your eligibility to be considered for PhD studies. In contrast the cover letter or personal statements, a motivational statement is more focused on your motivation to pursue the specific PhD job you’re applying for.

Cover letters for academics are much more popular at UK universities, whereas motivational letters tend to be more prevalent at home.

For admissions staff, academic credentials alone aren’t enough to tell if students will succeed in their doctoral studies. In this way an encouraging letter can help them evaluate your passion for the subject dedication to research, and your suitability to the program and allows them to assess your potential.

Check Also: Fully Funded Swedish Institute Scholarships 2023-2024 | Details

Writing a motivation letter

1. The first step to write an effective motivational note is to study the job advertisement carefully
2. The next step is to to understand the research team and the type of research they conduct.
3. The final step is to read an earlier motivation letter and attempt to figure out why the motivation letter was successful.
4. Step 4 is be sure you send the letter to the appropriate people.
5. Fifth step: describe the reasons why you are applying for this job and the lab.
6. Sixth step: describe how your interests in research are aligned with the research conducted by the lab.
7. Seventh step: discuss what your prior research background connects to the job
8. The final step is to state the reason you’re seeking the position.

 Start of a Motivation Letter

Introduction Begin with a short introduction that will clearly outline your desire to apply for a specific program. Imagine this as a description of what your document says to someone who is not familiar with the document.

education: State what you have studied and when. Your post-secondary education is the most significant educational experience you have therefore, you should concentrate on this. Include any relevant courses you completed as part of your studies that relate to the program which you have been applying to. Also, you should be sure to mention how your research has contributed to your decision to pursue the PhD project, particularly when it’s related to the field that you’re currently applying to.

Work experience: Next summarize your professional work experience. Be aware that you may be required to submit your academic CV as well as your motivational letter. Therefore, make this section concise to avoid unnecessary repetition. Incorporate any relevant experience like teaching positions and non-academic work experience. volunteering that shows your abilities or demonstrates your potential for the research project , and when you are preparing to become a PhD student.

Main Body of Motivation Letter

Key skills: Outline your key skills. Remember that the admissions committee will be looking at your qualifications for the particular program you’re applying for So, make sure you list skills that relate to the PhD program.

Motivation to apply: Show your enthusiasm and enthusiasm for the field and outline your goals for the future. Beginning with the reason you first began to become interested in this field, and then how your curiosity has increased over time. Include anything else that can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the research subject you are considering such as:

  • Have you participated in any of the seminars or workshops?
  • Are you a researcher? Do you have experience in research?
  • Have you mastered something about the discipline?
  • Did you have a chance to read books on research?
  • Also, tell us what motivated you to dedicate the next three to four years (assuming you’re able to pursue your studies all the time) in your lifetime to studying.

 End of a Motivation Letter

In the end in your Motivation Letter, you should include two or three sentences about the impact of your research on your personal life, research area, and your experience in general. It will assist you in demonstrating the significance of your research within an overall larger picture. In general, show how the research community as well as the college will benefit by having you as a student.

Last but not least, thank the person who reads your application.

Motivational letter for PhD, Postdoc, Scholarship 

It is important to note that a motivation letter in the European style concentrates on the academic background and research without revealing the need to include too much personal information. Personal statements in the US, in contrast is much more focused on life experiences. In this case, we will concentrate on the European style.

(01) Motivation letter Sample Ph.D. Molecular Modeling

 

Dear Prof. XXXX

This letter is to announce my interest in applying for the PhD post available in the XXXX group within the program “Molecular modeling study of the activation of transmembrane receptors involved in chemical senses” at the University of XXXX.

In 2009 I received my degree from University of XXX in XXX with a five-year degree of Pharmaceutical Chemistry. In the course of my studies I was fascinated by the field of research in Computational

Chemistry and the techniques used can be applied to the creation of molecules that could have biological properties. That’s why during my final three years of bachelor’s study, I was a member of a research group and was a part of various research projects in the research lines. Within the projects I completed with this team, I think the one that was the most important one for me was the bachelor’s thesis, titled “Theoretical Study of morphine derivatives using molecular modeling” in which I scored an impressive grade of 4,8/5 and an award of Meritorious.

This Molecular modelling study that studies of transmembrane receptors that are involved in chemical senses drew my attention right away since it provides me with the opportunity to apply computational methods to biological systems, which is what I love and love the most. Apart from that, studying physiological phenomena that are related to the intersensoriality of the senses of smell and taste is a fascinating subject which has great potential applications within the realm of innovative molecules. I’d like to be chosen for this PhD job because I believe this project offers me the chance to grow and enhance my research in a area that is part of my professional ambitions. I believe this PhD job offers me the chance to receive the full instruction in computational chemistry and its application to biological systems, as well as an opportunity for working in an inter-disciplinary setting, with the highest academic quality.

I’m aware of the determination and persistence required to attain the highest level of success in this field. I am confident that my knowledge will enable me to achieve it. I consider it to be a an ideal opportunity to show my capabilities and develop new skills and I am hoping to be considered for this PhD post.

I am available to provide any further information you require and I thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

 

 

 

( (02) Motivation letter Sample Biology

 

Dear xxxxxxx,

It is my intention to submit an application for the PhD job at the The xxxx Institute (Paris, France), to study What factors shape the biodiversity hotspots of the open ocean?>

In 2008 I completed my studies at the University of Padova in Italy with the Master of Science degree in Biology as well as a program that included Marine Biology. After my first graduation, I attended the same school, and I am scheduled to earn a Master’s Degree with a focus on Evolutionary Biology. In my time of study I fell in love with the marine environments and marine ecology, particularly. I remember with great excitement my first boat excursion to the lake of Chioggia (VE) in which we were taught the process of conducting an oceanographic mission as well as how to collect measurements of oceanographic physical and chemical data and biological samples as well as how to utilize technological tools aboard. In my university days I was also given the chance to get a diving licence and, thanks to that, I discovered to the very first time the stunning underwater world I only saw in documentaries on marine subjects. Living in such an anthropogenically-modified environment, what I most like about marine world is the fact that, in spite of his often-dramatic effects, man has not already managed to put his “footprint”. As a child, the marine environment and its protection was my primary goal.

In the meantime, I was enrolled in an two-year Master’s Program of science Communication in the ISAS (International School for Advanced Study), Trieste. This course not only offered me with the opportunity to work on various forms that communicate scientifically (newspapers radio, radio, multimedia museums) and also to be able to handle the entire spectrum of scientific disciplines and issues, but also helped me develop my ability to interact with different people: journalists, scientists, public scientists, and government institutions.

I am currently participating in the Erasmus programme of exchange at University of Paris XI, where I have chosen to pursue my master thesis in the area of ecological modellingin the Department of Ecology, Biodiversity and Evolution. The department offered me the chance to work with fascinating individuals from across Europe with different research backgrounds. They fueled my desire to pursue my studies in an international setting. Additionally, I was able to develop new abilities in statistical analysis as well as software programming. I am primarily working in the R software environment, which is based on an uninominal binomial model changing the model’s parameters through optimization search for equation parameters using the maximum likelihood method. I can’t say that it was simple at first because I didn’t know the language and could not even begin to do nothing. But with a bit of assistance to begin learning the language, I started studying on my own and found classes to
learn, and then be adept at manipulating scripts to take action on it , and then provide an new improvements.

I decided to pursue a profession by earning a doctorate in a non- UE country in order to build a global image. Working in collaboration with three of the most prestigious universities such as University Pierre et Marie Curie, Ecole Normale Superieur and MIT very challenging, and an further motivator for me. Furthermore, this collaboration will give me the unique opportunity to work in two different research fields: on the one hand the marine environment, that continue to remains my main area of interest. On the other hand statistical ecological modeling an approach to science that is, although it’s difficult and difficult to comprehend is something I find extremely satisfying for a discipline such as biology that is looking for a rigorous approach to address the complex nature of living systems.

My education in the academic field has provided me with an understanding of various theoretical topics that are part of this research program: chemical and physical ocean dynamic processes, ecological processes and marine organisms physiology are among the topics I was interested in and where I achieved the best. My research was characterized by a wide range of subjects, however it is not an issue I believe it to be my highest quality. A project that is aiming to integrate and compare satellite data virtual simulation molecular and field data within a vast international collaboration, someone who is accustomed to switching between various subjects and interact with different experts could certainly of assistance. Even though I can’t claim that I am an expert in software programming right now my master’s degree proved my passion and perseverance, which enabled me to gain the ability to work independently as well as the determination to continue learning.

Based on my history of excellent academic performance and a keen enthusiasm for this research-oriented program I’m certain that, given the chance, I will take pleasure in working on the areas which spark my interest most. Apart from my academic credentials I am certain that my international and interdisciplinary experience will be able to meet the requirements of your research school.

Thank you for your consideration of my application.

Yours forever,

(03) Motivational Letter Example

 

Dear Sir/ Madam,

Let me introduce myself. I have been in the field for over a year …………and I recently (August 2007) I graduated with an M.Sc on Telecommunication Engineering from Technical University of Denmark (DTU). I was drawn to the Radioplanlaegningenior opening at SONOFON, Denmark by my strong interest and skills in GSM Radio Frequency planning, optimization, link budgeting, nominal planning , drive test, interference calculation, site survey for site selections and command on using Radio Frequency planning tool like TEMS and NetAct Planner.

I completed the M.Sc Telecommunication thesis project “Modeling Long Term Evolution (LTE) of 3G Mobile Networks” in collaboration with CommWyse A/S Denmark and Research Center COM at DTU. For my M.Sc thesis, I’ve developed an operating model for LTE applications that are mission-critical to obtain the precise performance evaluation required by 3GPP that includes the maximum data rates (100 Mbps downlink and 50 Mbps for uplink) and the latency of networks (user as well as control plane) as well as mobility management as well as radio resource management. It covers fundamentals of all interfaces, protocols heavy programming abilities and UMTS, OFDM and HSPA. Through this degree program, I acquired a deep understanding about WCDMA, UMTS and HSPA at the radio access and the radio access network.

I have done my M.Sc in Engineering Management and Bachelor of Electronics/Electrical Engineering (4 years degree program) degrees from University of Engineering and Technology Taxila, (…..Link…. ) The university is considered to be one of the top Engineering University in Canada.

I was employed in an GSM Mobile Communication operator engineering company Pakistan Mobile Communication Ltd, Islamabad, Pakistan, as BSS and RF Planning Engineer for over one year. My duties included installation and commissioning of BSS component and planning and optimizing RF to support the GSM network. The project I worked on was in relation to RF optimization and planning for offering the greatest coverage capacity, QoS and capacity. I also resolved issues that arise from interference. I also worked on fiber optics-based DXX as well as wireless communications system at PakDataCom (PVT) Ltd, Islamabad, Pakistan for about one year.

This is a great opportunity to put into practice my GSM/3G mobile communication knowledge I’ve gained in planning RF in my academic and professional life to date. I would like to take this opportunity to apply for the  position in your prestigious organization.

I’m awaiting your thoughtful and positive response. I appreciate your consideration and time. I”ll gladly happy to supply any additional information or documentation should you require it.

Notification: I would like you to refer to my CV with the application.

Sincerely,
………………..
Skodsborgvej 190, 1, 2408
2850 Nearum
Denmark

(04) Motivation Letter Example of Biology Physiology

 

Dear XXX,

I am writing this letter to apply to the Institute for the Ph.D. project on (topic).In 2010 I completed my studies at Universita of Padova degli Studi (Italy) with an undergraduate degree in Biology. After my first degree, I was at the same school which I will graduate from in October the Master’s( I don’t know if you Compare with my original) degree from Evolutionary Biology.

Through my time of study I became interested in the environment and ecology. After obtaining my diploma from high school in the summer of 2004, I was a volunteer at Riserva Naturale Isola di Lampedusa to assist the local team to protect sea turtles during the reproductive season. I also helped educate tourists about the environmental issues. At a camp for applied eco-ethology in the Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi I researched the effect of the establishment of natural reserves on the local populations. Through these experiences I developed a passion for our environment and the preservation of it.

I finished my Bachelor’s dissertation on animal pshysiology. It focused on the adaptations of a sea water crustacean (Upogebia pusilla) to environments with lower oxygen levels. I enjoyed my three month period of fieldwork at the lagoon in Chioggia (Venezia, Italy). (prior sentence is in need of improvement) While completing my master’s degree I did well in animal ethology, where I was taught (xxx). (They will have transcripts of your studies, and will look at your marks. The letter must be self-contained.)

In the meantime, I completed an two-year Master’s Program for Sciences Communication in ISAS (International School for Advanced Study), Trieste (Italy). This course not only gave me with the opportunity to experience different types for scientific communications ***, however, it also helped me develop my ability to interact with the general public and journalists, scientists, and government institutions. In my study, I have learned how to to write and promote articles (need more details here to help make this flow easily) Animation, multimedia for science festivals, the organising of exhibitions, organising scientific events.

Presently I am enrolled in the Erasmus programme of exchange at Universite Paris Sud XI. I am completing my Master thesis on the subject of ecological modeling at Department Ecologie, Biodiversite et Evolution. Within this structure (framework? is that a word? Doesn’t seem right) I was able to collaborate with students and researchers from across Europe which sparked my desire to pursue (nobody is pursuing your studies…doesn’t seem reasonable?) my studies through an international research experience and gave me an understanding of the diverse perspectives of ecological research. (You tend to creating sentences that are long by adding unnecessary, non-valued information in the last sentence. Try to reduce your sentences by focusing on the essentials.) In addition, I improved my analytical and critical thinking as well as acquiring new skills and methods. (prior phrase is untrue since you don’t agree with it.) I’m currently working in an R software environment to develop an analytical model of the patterns of reproduction in sea turtles changing it with the help for new parameters through optimization. Through classes that I took outside of my regular schedule I have learned to use the R language for the analysis of ecological and biological data (this entire paragraph requires some work. I’m not sure of the primary purpose of this paragraph. Perhaps you’re studying abroad? Have you become more enthusiastic about your studies? Perhaps you’re using a statistical program like Soem? Help your reader understand what she should be able to read and comprehend. Anything else, get rid of.)

I discovered a lot of interest in this particular area of study due to the fact that it brings together some of my most loved areas: ecology, animal biology, and the study of ethology. Additionally, I have the chance to work at an institution of repute like the Universite Pierre et Marie curie. This makes my job very challenging, and serves as an additional incentive for me. (This subject is a favorite of mine. I’m not sure what you’re trying to convey here.)

The diverse curriculum of my academics gave me with a thorough understanding of the diverse subjects that are involved within the project. I also learned a lot in communication for science, which can make it easier for me to communicate research findings in scientific contexts, such as workshops, journals and conferences, and also public ones, such as newspapers or expositions, magazines and newspapers. (Hasn’t your media material already been distributed? Why do you need to repeat it? With your focus on communicating, a person who reads your work expects higher standards from you. She is looking for concise, clear prose. If not, she’ll question your previous studies in communication.)

With my history of solid academic performance and an intense desire to participate in the research you conduct, I’m sure that, given the chance, I’ll take pleasure in the ***excel. (You want to leave the impression that you will excel at the entire program) In addition to my academic qualifications, I am confident that my interdisciplinary and international background will ***strengthen your ***class/students/something.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I am looking for your approval.

Sincerely,
ABC

 (05) Motivation letter Sample

 

Dear Sir or Madam:

It is my intention to make an application to be considered for my place in the Master in Finance and Accounting at the London School of Economics and Political Science which will begin in fall of 2022. The diploma from the one of London’s most renowned and highly regarded business schools will allow me to make significant progress in my career and help in Ukrainian economic growth.

Ukrainian economy is a developing market that is heavily dependent upon investments. I began my research into investment valuation during my time in the university. I realized that a low sovereign risk was one of the main elements for the successful development of investment within emerging market. My research focused on the creation of an econometric model quantifying the risk of a sovereign in Ukraine. The model enabled me not only to get a quantifiable assessment of Ukrainian sovereign risk, but also to determine the macroeconomic factors that influenced it most. My findings were widely praised through Emly Mann’s, and Ivan Puluy’s Foundations in which I received two scholarships. My studies in Cambridge School of Economics and Political Science Cambridge School of Economics and Political Science will enable me to acquire the necessary abilities and expertise of investment valuation and analysis in order to pursue my research and ensure that my model is popular among both investors from both the US and abroad.

Additionally having a Master’s degree obtained from LSE is essential for my professional growth. I’ve already made significant career advancement from an internship position to a position as a senior analyst in Metinvest Holding, the largest mining and steel firm in Ukraine. It took me less than two years to develop and demonstrate to my coworkers that my skills and knowledge could be used in an extremely competitive and challenging business environment. My career prospects in the future are contingent on my educational advancement because my directors and managers already hold diplomas from foreign institutions which allow them to communicate with overseas partners in a single foreign language, both in financial and business terms.

In my role as a Senior Analyst in the Strategy & Business Development department I looked at potential opportunities for the sectors that consume steel expansion in Ukraine. A very appealing alternatives is in the wind energy industry that is extremely steel-intensive. While working on the project, I had the an opportunity to attend the international conference dedicated to the evaluation of factors that have been successful in helping build renewable energy initiatives in Ukraine. The participants, which including foreign wind turbine producers along with investment banks, the international banks, emphasized they needed trustworthy partners to establish a operations in Ukraine. As a representative for Metinvest Holding I experienced lack of world-class valuation of investments and expert practice that could assure foreign investors that we can be a trustworthy partner in this difficult and multi-industrial industry. Diversification of sources of energy is among the major priorities in the future energy policy of the country. That is the reason why achieving success with the wind power sector is crucial for the energy independence for Ukraine.

I’m fairly certain that having a solid understanding of the top investment valuations and risk assessment processes will allow me to achieve significant career advancement. As a Master in Science in Finance & Accounting I will oversee complex investment projects in the steel industry and other related sectors, such as for instance, wind energy that attracts foreign investment in Ukraine. I will be able to also assure foreign investors that the risk of sovereigns can be measured easily and we can determine what variables determine the risk.

Since I began my studies at the university I’ve been continuously developing my interpersonal communication as well as presentation abilities. I was a part of more than ten regional and international student-led scientific conferences both in Ukraine and around the world. There was not a single conference where I didn’t win an award. My skills in presenting were greatly improved during my time for Metinvest Holding as I was required to present the rationale behind various investment along with market-based strategies the company’s upper management. When I was at the university I also demonstrated the potential for leadership. I was leader of the team that took part in student business competitions. Our team achieved excellent results in the regional competition and was selected to compete on the last stage. I greatly appreciate this experience since it marked my very first success in management.

To summarize I’m currently just beginning my career, but I have made significant advancement in this field. I would like to attend the London School of Economics and Political Science to acquire the necessary investment analysis and valuation capabilities to continue to advance in my personal career. My academic performance along with my communication and leadership skills show that I am well-prepared to enter this Master in Finance & Accounting program.

 

Yours loyally,
ABC

(06) Motivation letter for Biology.

 

Dear ———,

I am writing this letter to apply to the ——— Institute for a Ph.D. project on the —(topic )—- —.

In 2009 I received my degree from Oxford University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. After my first degree, I was at the same school which is where I’m about receiving a Master’s degree with a focus on Evolutionary Biology, in October. Through my studies I was captivated by the environment and ecology. After obtaining the high school degree in the summer of 2004, I became a volunteer in Riserva Naturale Isola di Lampedusa to help the local outfite to protect sea turtles in the reproductive season, and to conduct environmental education to tourists. I also participated in the Eco-Ethology Camp for Applied located at Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi in order to research the effects of the establishment of natural reserves on the local populations. I realized how much use my studies could make towards conservation and environmental protection was satisfying to me.

I completed my Bachelor’s thesis on animal pshysiology. It focused on adaptations of a marine water crustacean (Upogebia pusilla) to low oxygen environments. In the course of this three-month period I participated in field work on the lake in Chioggia (Venezia, Italy) with a great deal of enthusiasm. In my master’s program, through tests such as Ethology as well as Organisms Interaction, as well as informative lectures I gained a deep passion for animal ethology which is evident by the excellent results I obtained in these topics.
In between, I took the two-year Master’s Program on science Communication in the ISAS (International School for Advanced Study), Trieste (Italy). This course not only offered me with the chance to learn different types of scientific communication, and deal with the entire spectrum of scientific disciplines as well as enhancing my ability to interact with the public, as well as journalists, scientists, and government institutions, by putting together videos, articles, and work on scientific festivals, organising exhibitions, and the organisation of scientific events.
I am currently participating in the Erasmus programme of exchange at Universite Paris-SudXI, where I’ve decided to pursue my master thesis within the field of ecological modeling, in the Department Ecologie, Biodiversite et Evolution. In this context, I had the chance to work alongside students and researchers from across Europe which rekindled my desire to pursue my studies and provided me with the opportunity to conduct research internationally, and gave me an understanding of the various perspectives on ecological science. Additionally, I honed my analytical and critical thinking and also acquired new techniques and skills. I’m currently working in the R software to develop the statistical model of patterns of reproductive activity of sea turtles. I am adjusting it by searching for new parameters using optimization. Through classes that I took outside of school I was able to use the R language to analyze of ecological and biological data.

I have discovered a huge interest in this particular area of research due to the fact that it brings together my favorite subjects: animal ecology, physiological science and ethics. Additionally, I have the chance to work at an eminent institution such as the Universite Pierre and Marie Curie. It is which is extremely challenging, and an additional incentive for me.

My diverse academic program gave me with a deep understanding of the diverse subjects that are involved by the study. I also gained expertise in communication about science, which can help me communicate research findings in scientific contexts, such as conferences, workshops and journals and public ones such as newspapers publications, expositions, and magazines.
With my track record of high academic performance and a keen curiosity about the research programs you offer, I’m certain that, granted the chance I’ll enjoy working on topics that spark my interest the most. Alongside my academic credentials I am sure that my international and interdisciplinary experience will be able to meet the requirements of your research school.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my application.

Thank you very much,
ABC

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