Dr Thomas Schalch
University of Leicester

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

Supportive, goal-oriented

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

Provision of training:

I will provide the necessary training to get you started. In the course of your PhD I expect you to develop the skills to find approaches yourself and validate them critically.

Progression monitoring and management:

I will provide guidance and advice for setting your goals and milestones. I like to be kept up to date and we will discuss method development, data generation, analysis, and results on a regular basis.

Communication:

I like to be in regular contact through email, face-to-face meetings or videoconference. I may send emails out of regular lab hours, but I do not expect immediate replies in these cases.

 

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 fortnight

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