Choosing the Right Supervisor & Their Impact on PhD Students

1. Academic Fit

Your supervisor should have expertise that aligns with your research interests and the methods you want to use. Review their recent publications, grants, and projects to ensure a good match.

2. Supervision Style & Expectations

• How often do they expect to meet with students?
• Do they provide detailed feedback or prefer independence?
• What are their expectations around working hours and availability?

Clarifying these questions early reduces misunderstandings later in the PhD.

3. Impact on Progress & Wellbeing

Supportive supervisors help students publish, finish on time, and build confidence. Poor supervision can lead to delays, confusion, or even attrition. Pay attention to how current students describe their experience.

4. Power, Ethics & Academic Integrity

Supervisors have power over your progression and references. Ethical supervisors respect boundaries, acknowledge contributions fairly, and avoid pressuring students into questionable practices or academic dishonesty.

5. Building a Supervision Team

Co‑supervisors and informal mentors can balance different strengths. Whenever possible, create a small network of advisors so that you are not dependent on a single person for all decisions and support.