In three words or phrases: Student-centred development through discussion; collaboration; guidance and demonstration.

Provision of Training

Training is always available and provided by the most appropriate, skilled colleague. In practice this includes training from me, post-docs and experienced PhD students as well as collaborators within our local labs. As time progresses, you will take more responsibility for the development of methods but always with discussion and support. In the early days of your PhD, this training will mean that you are around in the lab during the day but as you become more experienced, you have the freedom to organise your work schedule as appropriate to the needs of the experiment and other commitments.

Progression Monitoring and Management

Through weekly timetabled meeting and additional informal meetings, we will discuss progress and project management. In the early days, this will involve more input from me but as your experience and skills increase, you will take more and more responsibility for project management. However, I will always be there for support, discussion and additional guidance.

Communication

Work-Life balance is important, and I will support you in trying to achieve this. Our communications will mostly be face to face, in person through an Open Door policy and through regular meetings. We use a TEAMs channel for routine communications within the group. I’m also available and happy for additional support as required and developing early career scientists is a responsibility I take seriously.

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:

These meetings will be mainly face to face, and I am usually contactable for an instant response on every working day.

Working Pattern

Certain tasks in my lab need to occur at set times, and students need to be able to commit to a rota/timetable shared with other members of the team.

Notice Period for Feedback

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