Dr Sarah L. Horswell
University of Birmingham

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

Supportive, rigorous, enthusiastic

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

Provision of training:

I prefer to take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later.

Progression monitoring and management:

At first I will discuss with you to set goals for 2-4 week periods. We'll review these and discuss any changes that need to be made to the plans. As time progresses and experience grows, we'll set monthly goals together. I am comfortable with both providing weekly or monthly guidance and with supporting those who like to devise and manage their own goals over a longer period (but I do like to be kept up-to-date if there are problems or something interesting happens!). I am also usually available to help with trouble-shooting if it is needed (you don't have to wait for a scheduled meeting to ask for help or to talk something over).

Communication:

I'll sometimes I sometimes email my team at strange hours. I do not expect you to do the same but if I have asked for information I'll need a reply. I'll sometimes try to catch you in person for quick things or discussion to avoid sending many emails.

I am happy to discuss any issues that are affecting your ability to fulfil your potential or our expectations and to suggest sources of help and support where appropriate.

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

At least once a month

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 month

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?

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

Open door policy?

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

My expectation of PhD student working patterns?

The timing of work in my lab is flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings), I expect students to manage their own time but there may be a rota for some items of equipment.

A small number of experiments is carried out at major facilities (e.g. Diamond/ISIS) and students may need to work longer hours than usual/shifts/weekends at these experiments but are encouraged to take days off in lieu.

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.