PhD Supervision Lifecycle Programme

Welcome to the UL Doctoral College PhD Supervision Lifecycle Programme! This series of workshops is designed to equip UL PhD supervisors with the essential knowledge, skills, and strategies you need to navigate the complex and rewarding journey of supervising postgraduate researchers (PGRs). 

In their role, research supervisors are instrumental in guiding and supporting the next generation of scholars through their doctoral studies; this programme has been created to enhance the effectiveness and impact of doctoral supervisors. 

Effective PhD supervision is a collaborative process that significantly influences the academic and professional trajectories of both PhD candidates and supervisors. For PhD candidates, effective supervision offers critical guidance, support, and feedback, all of which are vital for developing research skills and successfully completing projects. A strong supervisory relationship supports academic growth, motivation, and overall satisfaction with the doctoral journey. Recent studies highlight the importance of clear communication, well-managed expectations, and constructive feedback in fostering a positive supervisory environment. 

For supervisors, effective PhD supervision is equally impactful. It allows them to mentor emerging researchers, directly contributing to the advancement of their field. Effective supervision enhances a supervisor’s professional reputation and career satisfaction as they witness their researchers’ achievements and contributions to both academia and society. In addition, effective supervision cultivates a collaborative and productive research environment, benefitting the supervisor and the wider academic institution.

Throughout this PhD supervision lifecycle series, PhD supervisors at UL will explore a diverse range of topics, including the following: empowering PGRs with varying learning needs; adapting supervisory styles; navigating funding opportunities; and preparing for PhD submission. 

Each workshop is specifically designed to address distinct aspects of the supervision lifecycle, equipping our supervisors with practical insights, tools, and resources to help them excel further in their supervisory role.