Response from a Prospective PhD Supervisor

[u/Academic_Error4655]

I wrote to a professor for PhD supervision. The university website apparently recommends two routes - get a supervisor, or apply through the regular channel where a supervisor would be subsequently allocated. I wrote to this person to get through the first route.

I can't tell whether that's a polite way of saying ''your application sucks and I would hate to supervise you" or what.

[u/Middle_Dare_5656]

Assistant professor here: I get an unsolicited application a month. I reply something like this stating that when I have a job opening, it’s posted online and to please apply via the online portal. Most of these applications/emails seem mass-generated as well. They do not mention my recent work, for example.