In three words or phrases: Collaborative, guiding, inclusive.
Provision of Training
I tend to be fairly prescriptive and hands on at the start of the PhD and then transition over to more independent working later. We are very collaborative at Warwick Crop Centre and there are always lots of people to give advice on technical issues.
Progression Monitoring and Management
I think it’s important for students to take ownership of their work and progression as part of the PhD training process and to enable the student to realise their potential: but this is only effective when it’s done with proper support and guidance from the supervisor. The objectives for the project will be set out in the project plan and these will be used for monitoring and managing progress. I am very approachable and I have an open door policy, and I encourage my students to show me progress with experiments and to ask for advice when they think it’s required. I don’t like hierarchies and I think that the student and supervisor work best as a team, with the student eventually taking over from the supervisor as the expert in their particular area of study. The nature of research and problem solving means there are inevitably times when things don’t go as planned, and that’s when the team approach is essential. This only works when the student feels valued, doesn’t feel intimidated, and knows that they have the support of the supervisors and others around them.
Communication
We have a group catch up meeting every week and also a formal one to one meeting every month. On top of this, I like to speak with my students every day, usually to touch base, see how the work is going and to help sort out any issues. As I explained above, I have an open door policy, so generally my students will pop in to the office during the day to say hello, but if they need an extended chat then we’ll book a slot in the diary for that day or as soon as we can. We have a group WhatsApp and I always say to my PhD students that if they message me on my phone then I will get back ASAP – I find this a lot faster and more efficient than email. I don’t like the “always on” culture that is commonplace these days, and I think it’s important for everyone to have a proper work/life balance. So I won’t be hassling you at all hours. I want all my students to achieve their potential, and I am always available to discuss any pastoral support issues that arise alongside the excellent systems that are run by the postgraduate research support team. We try to create a supportive, inclusive and welcoming atmosphere where people can really feel at home. My own PhD (a long time ago now) was very difficult, in a lab with poor management, support and communication, and I have tried to use lessons from that time in a positive way to provide a good study environment for my students.
In a group meeting
At least once per week
In year 1 of PhD study
At least once per week
In year 2 of PhD study
At least once per fortnight
In year 3 of PhD study
At least once per fortnight
The meetings will be a mixture of face to face, via video chat or telephone and I am usually contactable for an instant response (if required) on every working day.
Working Pattern
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 5000 words.
