Introduction

So, you’re thinking about pursuing a PhD! But before you dive in, you have probably heard those horror stories about bad PhD supervisors ruining their student’s PhD experience. Don’t let that scare you off! A PhD has the potential to be the most rewarding years of your life! However, it is important to pick the right supervisor, as they can make or break your PhD. Some might say for 3-4 years while undertaking your PhD, your supervisor is the most important person in your life! So, how do you go about making the right choice? Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process to ensure finding the right PhD supervisor!

What is their area of expertise?

First and foremost, when making your PhD application, make sure their interests align with yours. It is your PhD, and you can research whatever you want. However, it must be in the supervisor’s area of interest.

How to find out their focus:

• Read their most recent papers (search databases like PubMed or Google Scholar)

• Check if they’ve given any recent TED Talks or university-sponsored talks

• Look for interviews or articles about their work

• Find their formal PhD students’ theses to see what kind of projects have come under their supervision. (Use databases such as ProQuest or Google Scholar using the supervisor’s name as a search term and filtering for “thesis” or “dissertation.”

Arrange to meet the supervisor

Once you’ve gathered enough information about their work, it is time to set up a meeting! An in-person or virtual meeting can help you assess not only their research focus but their working style and expectations. First, write a formal email, in many ways like an application cover letter. (Blog on how to contact supervisors coming soon!).  Some things to consider while in your meeting with your potential supervisor:

• Research topic and focus:
  • Clarify the research question, methodology and potential outcomes of your project
• Supervisory style:
  • Understand whether they are a hands-on supervisor, or they prefer you to be more independent
  • Ask questions about their availability for meetings, feedback frequency and communication expectations
• Project details and feasibility:
  • Discuss potential research questions, methodologies, and expected outcomes for your project
• Research group dynamics
  • Learn the size and composition of the research group, including other PhD students and postdocs
• Personal compatibly
  • Assess your comfort level with the supervisor’s personality and communication style

Get an Unbiased Opinion

Be careful! Even if you have met your potential supervisor and you like their vibe, anyone can make a good impression for an hour! It is important to talk to current or past members of the lab so you can get an unbiased opinion on their personalities.

How to get feedback:

• Look up current or past members on the university’s website

• Find authors on the supervisor’s published papers and reach out to them on via email or LinkedIn. Ask about their experience with the supervisor and working environment

• Keep your message professional but direct. Ask about work-life balance, the supervisor’s mentoring style, and how supportive they found the lab

Remember the qualities of a good supervisor

• Effective communicator: Can they explain concepts clearly and provide useful feedback?
• Knowledgeable: Are they up to date in the latest research in your field?
• Supportive: Do they encourage your latest development and support your long-term goals?
• Engage: Are they actively involved in research and mentoring, rather than being busy or distant?
• Passionate: Do they seem genuinely invested in your project and excited about your success?

Conclusion

Finding the right PhD supervisor is a vital step. This ensures the success and enjoyment of your doctoral journey. While a supervisor’s expertise is essential, their mentoring style, research group dynamics and personal compatibility are equally important! Don’t rush your decision, take your time to meet with potential supervisors, speak to their students and assess whether their visions align with yours. Remember, the right supervisor can guide and inspire you, making your PhD a transformative and rewarding experience!

Here are some more blog posts about PhD Application Success!

CV for PhD applications

How to write a successful PhD personal statement