Dr Bruno Martins
University of Warwick

Who is your scientific inspiration and why?

My scientific inspirations are François Jacob and Jacques Monod. For a few amazing years, they joined forces to create a new paradigm in both molecular and quantitative biology, by essentially discovering and creating a framework to explore the process of gene regulation. Their experiments and interpretation were highly creative and blended theoretical intuitions with solid empirical data. Throughout their lives, both also maintained and upheld strong humanist convictions.

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

I am a laid-back and flexible supervisor. I think everyone is different and so each student may require a different supervision style from me. I will work with you to find the style that works the best, in order to maximise your chances of success and of enjoying your PhD.

My lab is an inclusive lab where we all strive to support one another without compromising our goals and standards of research.

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

Provision of training:

At the beginning of your PhD, I expect that I will be closely involved in your technical training and helping in setting up goals. As you progress, I expect you to become more independent and initiative taking. In a figurative sense, the PhD is a process of acquiring a licence to become an independent scientist. My role is to help you get it, but only you can get it.

Progression monitoring and management:

We will meet once per week. In these meetings we will agree and review progress on both short and longer term goals. Biology can happen slowly, so I do not expect that there will be decisive progress every single week, but I believe it is important to maintain regular meetings.

Over time, I expect you to take ownership of the project and of your progress, but I will be available and expect you to come to me for troubleshooting. I have an open door policy and you can approach me at any time to discuss concerns, plans of action and experimental results.

Communication:

Email is my preferred mode of written communication. WhatsApp chats and related apps are fine for short and quick communication, but communication by email stays on the record more easily.

Occasionally, I may email you outside working hours, but I do *not* expect you to reply until the next working day. I fully respect your right to a healthy work-life balance.

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?

At least once per week

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

At least once per week

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

At least once per week

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?

Certain tasks in my lab need to occur at set times, and students need to be able to commit to a rota/timetable shared with other members of the team.

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

I need at least 2 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.