Professor Andrew McAinsh
University of Warwick

In three words or phrases how would you describe your supervision style?

I would like to hope that I am a supportive supervisor who wants to really try help all students reach their full potential by guiding you and trying to keep us both focused on the key experiment.

In one or two sentences please describe your strategies regarding the following.

Provision of training:

I would expect you to take responsibility for your initial training by taking advantage of expertise in the lab while asking for help whenever you need. This is especially important at the start of your PhD as you find your feet.

Progression monitoring and management:

I will expect you to work hard and update on progress in our lab meetings every month or so. You should also be prepared to discuss you work on an adhoc basis and flag any issues with me so that we can find a solution together – science can be challenging and we need to work together to make good progress. We also use electronic lab notebooks to help keep track of progress and allow us to share our results across the lab.

Communication:

Our lab has a WhatsApp group chat with which we regularly communicate during the week and weekends. Whilst I expect you to keep up with communications it is crucial that you also maintain a good work/life balance. I always happy to discuss any issues that are impacting your ability to fulfil your potential or my/our expectations.

How often do your PhD students see you in a timetabled group meeting?

At least once per week

In year 1 of PhD study, how often do your PhD students have a scheduled >30 minute 1:1 meeting with you?

Once per month, with informal chats in between

In year 2 of PhD study, how often do your PhD students have a scheduled >30 minute 1:1 meeting with you?

Once per month, with informal chats in between

In year 3 of PhD study, how often do your PhD students have a scheduled >30 minute 1:1 meeting with you?

Once per month, with informal chats in between

What form do your 1:1 meetings with PhD students take?

Face to face (if allowed under current health and safety advice)

Open door policy?

Yes, I am usually contactable for an instant response (if required) on every working day.

My expectation of PhD student working patterns?

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings), I expect students to manage their own time.

Notice for feedback (e.g. on reports, manuscript drafts, thesis chapters)?

I need at least 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.