In three words or phrases: Supportive, Flexible, Ideas-led.
Provision of Training
I prefer to take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later. I encourage collaboration with other members of the team and department to maximise skills transfer.
Progression Monitoring and Management
We will meet regularly, with the frequency determined by you, depending on the level of support/guidance required at each stage of the project. We will agree goals/next steps at the meeting. I have an expectation that you will you lead and set the direction of the project, with supervision used to provide guidance/support/input. I encourage the use of weekly/fortnightly update-emails to ensure your supervisors are always aware of your current progress between meetings.
Communication
I am happy to discuss any issues that are impacting your ability to fulfil your potential or my/our expectations. I will signpost relevant student support services as and when necessary. We have a lab Slack (chat) channel which you can use to contact me with any ad-hoc questions. This can also be used to chat with other team members or for group announcements. More formal updates and questions are done using University email. We will aim to meet in-person at least once a month, and have regular lab-team meetings.
PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:
In a group meeting
At least once a month
In year 1 of PhD study
At least once a fortnight
In year 2 of PhD study
At least once a month
In year 3 of PhD study
At least once a month
These meetings will be a mixture of face to face, via video chat or telephone. I am usually contactable for an instant response 3 or 4 days per week.
Working Patterns
The timing of work in my lab is flexible, and other than attending pre-arranged meetings, I expect students to manage their own time.
Notice Period for Feedback
I need at least 2 weeks' notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.