Dr Sarah Gordon

In three words or phrases: Adaptable based on student need, supportive, collaborative.

Provision of Training

Hands-on technical training will be provided by myself, members of my group or collaborators, as appropriate to give you the best training for your needs. Over time the expectation would be that you would become increasingly independent in the lab as well as in terms of designing experiments and discovering/developing methods, however with support and training always available if/when needed - training needs will be a standing discussion point within our regular meetings.

Progression Monitoring and Management

Initially we’ll meet on a weekly basis to discuss progress in terms of method/experimental development, data collection and analysis, as well as any issues or challenges, and to agree together on targets for the next week. I also think it’s important and helpful to set longer term goals together within these meetings to help us keep your project on track. We can meet on a more regular basis if needed, and can reduce the frequency of meetings if required as you progress in your project – I like for us to figure out together what particular monitoring and management style works best for you, and to adapt this accordingly as your project progresses to help you thrive and achieve your potential.

Communication

I think that open, clear communication is incredibly important to achieving satisfaction and success in a PhD. In addition to our regular meetings I am contactable by email and via Teams, and am also happy for you to stop by my office! While I am of course here to support and advise on your project work, I am also more than willing to discuss and provide support on any issues impacting on progress or wellbeing. Establishing (and maintaining!) a healthy work-life balance is incredibly important, and as such I don’t expect anyone to respond to communications outside normal/core working hours.

Meetings

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me at least once per month. These meetings will be face-to-face. I am usually contactable for an instant response 3 or 4 days per week.

Work 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 Period for Feedback

I need at least 1 week's notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5,000 words.