This session focuses on practical techniques for supporting candidates to become confident, independent researchers. It will consider how to set and revisit expectations, respond to candidate self-doubt and uncertainty and keep doctoral projects on track through effective planning and review.

Who is it for?

Doctoral supervisors aiming to develop the foundational skills and knowledge to supervise effectively, including those who:

• are early in their supervisory careers
• are supervising a PhD candidate for the first time or have recently joined a supervisory team
• are assistant supervisors or have an ‘informal’ supervisory role within a supervisory team (e.g. postdoctoral and research staff, research technical professionals and professional services)

The Foundations in Doctoral Supervision series supports supervisors in developing the knowledge, skills and confidence for effective doctoral supervision through practical tools, structured reflection, peer discussion, and exploration of supervisory relationships, expectations and boundaries. Participants are welcome to attend as many sessions as are relevant to their supervisory needs and interests.