Professor Steve Smerdon
University of Birmingham

Contact Details

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

Relaxed, supportive, inclusive

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

Provision of training:

Our research is multi-disciplinary in nature and so we draw from the experience of existing lab members and available expertise locally and in collaborating laboratories to provide the input and support necessary for development of a broadly based skill set relevant to modern structural molecular biology and biomedicine.

Progression monitoring and management:

Whilst I take responsibility for overall management of the programme, I see research as a collective effort and expect all lab members to take a critical interest in all of our areas of interest.

Communication:

Flexibility is key for good communication. I try to work around the students’ needs whilst ensuring that there are regular opportunities to provide guidance and, more importantly, to help the student develop their own ideas for progression of the project.

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 fortnight

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 3 or 4 days per week.

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.