Advice on doing a bio sciences phd?

[RobinHobb]

Looking for some advice from anyone who has done a PhD in sciences, biological sciences specifically.

I work in a completely different (better paying field) for the last 10 years or so. I have an undergrad in mathematics from a top university, but always interested in biology - never got the chance to study it and switch undergrad.

After 10 years in finance, on mat leave 1+2, I did an undergrad in biology from OU. Now finishing a MSc in London in cell biology/molecular pathology next year (doing it part time around work and kids). I absolutely love it. I find it so interesting. Really want to do a (full time) PhD.

The question is: how hard is it to get a funded PhD in bio sciences? I'm looking at a few places close to me, and don't want a long commute so I feel options are limited.

Any advice for me? I have an average of 85% in my MSc so far and completing my research project early next year. Insights, opinions and tips are all very welcome. Thank you!

@MedSchoolRat
Thank you for replying. It's good to hear a different perspective on academia, I will definitely not rule it out. I think at the end it will boil down to where I get offered a job, contract etc and so many other factors. I'll worry about it post phd! At the moment my focus is figuring how to get funding.
The RA position sounds ideal. I had no idea. Research starting ASAP :-)
Thanks again

@Stanleyrainbow
Thank you - those areas sounds pretty much exactly where I would like to work, I don't know how I'll get there but that's the ultimate end point - my MSc degree is focused in molecular pathology and cancer. I had thought there was no other way to work in this sort of field unless I got a PhD first. I'd still love to do a PhD but a collaborative one would be great. A RA position with a PhD is the gold standard here if I can find anything.

I will definitely look into this - thanks so much!

Not sure what happened there...