Dr Rebecca Drummond
University of Birmingham

Contact Details

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In three words or phrases how would you describe your supervision style?

Supportive, organised, ambitious

In one or two sentences please describe your strategies regarding the following.

Provision of training:

I prefer to take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later. All training with mice will be done directly with me. Day to day techniques in lab will be further supported by our post-docs and senior PhD students.

Progression monitoring and management:

I like to be kept up to date, and will expect to see evidence of what you’ve been working on (whether it be lab work, writing or data analysis) at our fortnightly meetings. I aim to help my students reach their full potential by providing ambitious targets, but these can be adjusted based on personal circumstance and your level of working.

Communication:

I prefer email communication for most work-related questions, but I am easily reachable via WhatsApp. The team has a group WhatsApp chat for day-to-day lab queries and social gatherings. I typically do not email at weekends or evenings and expect my students to have a healthy work-life balance. I am happy to discuss any issues that are impacting your ability to fulfil your potential or my/your expectations.

How often do your PhD students see you in a timetabled group meeting?

At least once per fortnight

In year 1 of PhD study, how often do your PhD students have a scheduled >30 minute 1:1 meeting with you?

At least once per week

In year 2 of PhD study, how often do your PhD students have a scheduled >30 minute 1:1 meeting with you?

At least once per fortnight

In year 3 of PhD study, how often do your PhD students have a scheduled >30 minute 1:1 meeting with you?

At least once per fortnight

What form do your 1:1 meetings with PhD students take?

Face to face (if allowed under current health and safety advice)

Open door policy?

Yes, I am usually contactable for an instant response (if required) on every working day.

My expectation of PhD student working patterns?

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 for feedback (e.g. on reports, manuscript drafts, thesis chapters)?

I need at least 2 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.