In three words or phrases: Supportive, goal-driven and collaborative.
Provision of Training
I will support and advise you throughout your PhD. I will take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later. Training from other members of the laboratory will also be available. Training for professional skills and data interpretation/management are already in place, and further help and advice will always be available.
Progression Monitoring and Management
At beginning I will set out my expectations of your progression on a weekly or monthly basis, then I will lead you to gradually take full ownership of the project as you progress, becoming more independent. I will formally meet with you at least once in 1-2 weeks. I would also like you to develop your own thinking in research goals and written work. I will always be available to you for advice or guidance on your professional goals in the role and offer help as required.
Communication
A good communication is important to optimizing the effectiveness of the student-supervisor teamwork. I am happy to make myself available to you as required. We communicate both formally through regular meetings face-to-face or online conference call as appropriate, and informally via WhatsApp, e-mails or popping into my office. The team has a WhatsApp group chat with which we regularly communicate during the week and weekends.
PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:
In a group meeting
At least once per fortnight
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 month
These meetings will be a mixture of face to face and via video chat or telephone, and I am usually contactable for an instant response on every working day.
Working Pattern
The timing of work in my lab is normally flexible, (other than attending pre-arranged meetings), I expect students to manage their own time depending on the experiments.
Notice Period for Feedback
I need at least 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.