In three words or phrases: Supportive, goal-orientated and guiding.
Provision of Training
I prefer to take responsibility for your training at first, although this would lead to more independence as your confidence improves and you begin to drive forward the underlying methodologies/hypotheses. I respect that every student is different in terms of their initial starting point, and so this process varies according to what the student feels comfortable with.
Progression Monitoring and Management
I expect progression monitoring and management to vary from one student to another depending upon their requirements. If you would like to take charge of your own progression, and set your own milestones, but come to me when you need help troubleshooting, I am happy to support that. Alternatively, if you’d like help with more structured progression plans, both short- and long-term, I am also happy facilitate that approach.
Communication
I have an open-door policy, and I like students to stop by for coffee/tea/snacks and let me know how things are going. I have been known to email my team/PhD students at all hours of the day and night, however I will not expect you to do the same. This is just so that I can reply quickly when teaching or away during normal working hours.
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 fortnight
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, via video chat or telephone, and I am usually contactable for an instant response every working day.
Working Patterns
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.
