Dr Kristen Panfilio
University of Warwick

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

• Supportive, fostering interdisciplinarity and developing new skills/approaches
• Tailored to the project and to the interests and expertise of the team member
• Responsive, with an expectation of team members’ own initiative and active communication

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

Provision of training:

At first I prefer to take responsibility for your training in advanced techniques and developing experimental design, leading to more independence later. Throughout, day-to-day support is also provided by my experienced team members (post docs/ senior research technician).

Progression monitoring and management:

I expect you to take full ownership for your progression and prefer to be as available as needed while giving you space to develop (“supportive hands-off” approach: I am a resource for you to actively consult in ensuring your own timely project progression!). If I do not hear from you often, I will check in and request updates, but the frequency will vary, depending on the individual and the current experimental phase of the project.

Communication:

I am known to email my team at all hours of the day and night, depending on my ever-changing schedule. However I will not expect you to do the same and do not expect instantaneous communication in either direction.

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 fortnight

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 month

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 month

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 1 or 2 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 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words. [quick impressions if things are on the right track]

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