Postgraduate profile: PhD digital copyright infringement

Nick Scharf studied a PhD in digital copyright infringement after realising that he enjoyed the academic environment.

I enjoyed my masters course, particularly the research element, and was pleased with the support I received from the faculty. Getting a good result inspired me to go on to complete a PhD as I had decided that I didn't want to practice law and preferred the academic lifestyle.

A different style of work

A PhD is very different from an undergraduate degree or taught masters. I set my own agenda, rather than having work set by a tutor, finding my own sources and coming up with my own ideas. This requires a lot of self discipline as I have to be quite ruthless in choosing which angles to pursue. There's never anything scheduled or set in stone so there's a lot more flexibility, but this means I have to be self motivated. I work from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm or 10.00 am to 6.00 pm, working from home or going on to the campus if I need to use the library. The facilities are good and there's a quiet work area, which allows me to get plenty done, though some days are more productive than others. I meet with my supervisor every few weeks to go over what I've been working on and have a chat about things. The life is different from my undergraduate days. There's not the same party scene, but I still have evenings free and get to have some fun and catch up with my friends.

Time management is essential

To get on well it's important to get into a routine. I think treating it as a job is a good idea. Time and project management skills are essential, as is having a long-term view. Three years might seem like a long time but I've found my first six months have flown by.

Nick studied an MA in commercial and business law and a PhD in digital copyright infringementat the University of East Anglia.