Professor Gary Bending
University of Warwick

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

Collaborative, supportive, outcome-oriented

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

Provision of training:

Your laboratory training will be supervised predominantly by my experienced post docs/PhD students.

I will encourage you to be independent, including adapting and devising methodologies, experimental design and data analysis/interpretation

Progression monitoring and management:

I like to be kept up to date, and will expect to see evidence of method development/data generation results on a monthly basis.

We will discuss your progression on a monthly basis. If these progression criteria are not met we will always discuss a plan of action together.

I have high expectations and will push you to your full potential.

I am here for advice and guidance to help you reach the goals we agree

Communication:

I am known to email my team/PhD students at all hours of the day and night, however I will not expect you to do the same.

The team meets weekly to discuss general lab issues

I am 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?

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?

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

Open door policy?

Yes, I am usually contactable for an instant response 3 or 4 days per week.

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