Dr Felicity de Cogan
University of Birmingham

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

Supportive, collaborative and training focused.

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

Provision of training:

I prefer to provide supportive training at first with more independence being gained throughout the PhD.

Progression monitoring and management:

I will set out my expectations of your progression on a weekly/monthly basis. If these progression criteria are not met we will always discuss a plan of action together.

Communication:

I feel work-life balance is important. We do have a group chat on slack and I take queries from group members whenever required on slack, whats app, text or email I do not expect group members to respond outside of their working hours and especially not at weekends. I like to provide a supporting environment and will be happy to discuss any issues that are impacting your ability to fulfil your potential.

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 fortnight

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 fortnight

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

A mixture of face to face or via video chat or telephone.

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.