Swiss Chem PhD

[duplication_cube]

Ahoy,

This is my first post ever. I recently left the chemistry PhD program at Johns Hopkins with a master's and now I don't know what to do with my life. Finding a job has turned out to be much harder than I thought it would be. I applied to one PhD program in the US (northwestern) and I probably didn't get in (long story). So I am thinking about going to Europe to get a PhD since it only take 3 or 4 years instead of having to start over in the US. I am kind of confused about how admissions procedures work there and I am hoping someone here will have some advice since any time I email someone at these schools it takes at least 3 weeks to get a response.

I recently sent a feeler email to a professor who is advertising a PhD position online. It's been two weeks since I sent it and he hasn't responded. The supposed deadline is the end of February. Should I just send him my application? If so, should I include my GRE scores? He asks for "CV, certificates, transcripts and references" in the application. What does he mean by certificates? He doesn't ask for GRE scores and it seems like most european schools don't require the GRE (at least for chemistry). I really wish they did require the GRE because that's my strong suit. I have mediocre grades but 2 publications, and pretty good GRE scores (790Q, 570V, 95 percentile on the Chemistry GRE). I'm probably going to wait a few more days and then send my application to him. If anyone thinks that's a bad idea, please tell me.

[aberrant]

take what I said with a grain of salt if you find it makes no sense.

Certificates probably mean some sort of proof (e.g. photocopy) of your degree(s)? GRE doesn't require in most countries other than the U.S., so it isn't necessary for your application overseas. However, I don't think it will hurt you by providing your scores with your application, or mentioned it in your CV with your 95% in Chem GRE.

My understanding is that you typically want to contact a faculty advisor / POI to see if s/he is taking any students for the next academic year, and see if one can consider your application. If one wants to take you, they will recommend your application to the program, and you may be accepted.

On the other hand, I have been told that a master degree in Chemistry hurts your chances to get a job in the industry... so I hope you'll get into Northwestern or somewhere to continue your career.