For PhD & MSc researchers
Research is hard — not just technically. The parts nobody prepares you for: direction, confidence, supervision relationships, knowing what you're allowed to ask for. I support postgraduate researchers with all of it.
You're working hard. You're showing up. And somehow it still feels like you're on the outside of something — like everyone else got a handbook you never received.
You didn't miss anything. The handbook doesn't exist. But someone should have given you one. That's what I'm here for.
Who I am
I wrote my entire PhD in my second language. I navigated supervision relationships nobody trained me for. I said yes when I meant no, lost focus, and figured out — too late, and mostly alone — the things I wish someone had told me at the start.
I'm a postdoctoral researcher in bioinformatics at CERI, Stellenbosch University. I've supported students at every stage — from choosing a PhD to surviving the final year — and I design and run postgraduate support programmes for research institutions.
I come back to this work because I think the silence around it is optional. And because honesty and a bit of humour will get you further than any amount of polished advice.
"The hardest parts of a PhD aren't technical. They're the things nobody prepares you for — not knowing what you're allowed to ask for, not knowing if what you're feeling is normal, not knowing how to say no to the person who holds your future in their hands."
Anna Gatseva · Postdoctoral researcher in bioinformatics · University of Glasgow PhD (C. elegans genetics) · CERI, Stellenbosch University · Postgraduate support practitioner
Work with me
All sessions are one-to-one, tailored to your specific situation. No scripts, no generic advice.
Diagnostic Session
£45 / 45 min
Not sure what's going wrong or where to start? We look at where you are together — your writing, your progress, your supervision situation, whatever feels most stuck.
Feedback Pattern Review
£65 / 60 min
Bring everything you've had feedback on — chapters, drafts, supervisor comments, marked work. I read across all of it and tell you what the pattern is. Not what's wrong with one piece. What keeps coming up across everything.
Thesis Writing Support
£195 / full journey
For researchers who know their science but struggle to get it onto the page. Particularly effective for those writing in a second language — I've done it myself.
Group Workshop
£55 / person
Small groups of 4–8 on a specific challenge. You'll learn from each other as much as from me. Built around real scenarios drawn from actual PhD and master's experiences.
What people say
"Anna was always very good at breaking down complex multistep problems into bite sized understandable chunks. By paying attention to my understanding of an issue she was able to pinpoint problems I was not aware of. Anna's support and advice was instrumental for preparing me for my PhD position at Oxford University."
"Anna eased us into practical work by explaining the protocol and theory of experiments. Most importantly, Anna encouraged us to critically think and evaluate our results as a good scientist should. Each day had a well-outlined schedule, learning outcomes, and experiment aims. I can't recommend Anna enough."
"Apart from very valuable advice and mentorship regarding postgraduate studies, Anna helped me with my CV and personal statement. Anna explained various concepts in genetics and was available whenever I had questions. I highly recommend her — her approachable manner and expertise makes understanding easy."
"Anna helped me with my molecular biology experiments and gave me good career advice and tips. She is such a great person — I highly recommend her!"
"Anna is super reliable and always on time. She is also a great teacher and takes the time to explain difficult concepts thoroughly, always making sure you fully understand."
Start here — no cost
No sales pitch. Just an honest conversation about what postgraduate research actually feels like — and what helps. Topics rotate: thesis structure, supervisor communication, confidence, writing blocks, knowing when you have enough.
Reserve your spotBook a session
Not sure which session is right for you? Start with a Diagnostic — we'll figure it out together.
Stay in the loop
For postgraduate researchers who want the real version of how this works — not tips, not polish. Just honest things from someone who went through it.