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This section provides guidance to help you聽![](/surgicalandinterventionalsciences/files/surgicalandinterventionalsciences/styles/wysiwyg_large/public/finding_supervisor.png?itok=Z9XvLkpg)
Research supervisors are not like university professors who teach classes of people who are simply registered. They are not obliged to supervise you, even if they have the funds and you are qualified. It is a personal decision, just as selecting a supervisor is a choice that belongs to you. Therefore, the process you follow to find and choose a supervisor is important.
There are two main pathways to enter a PhD or Research master鈥檚
Selecting the right graduate supervisor is a critical step to your future success in thesis-based graduate studies. It is important for an MSc, but critical for a PhD. During a PhD you will be spending several years with the same team at least 30, 40, 50 or more hours per week. You are likely to see your supervisor(s) more frequently than friends and family members, so it is essential that you communicate well and trust completely.
Taught MSc |
Based on our experience, this is one of the most effective paths. It is relatively easy to find a supervisor willing to supervise you in a non-thesis research project, and through this mechanism you can see if the project is a good fit. This relates to your passion for the subject, your aptitude in the research methodology and whether your personality is compatible with the supervisor. If you don't align well, you can explore a different project with another supervisor once you've finished the first project. And if neither works for you, you'll at least understand two types of research you don't want to pursue. Then again if something clicks and you find you and your supervisor are enjoying the process, both of you will be discussing familiar concepts and agreeing to terms and conditions that you both understand. |
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Direct to PhD/Research MSc | It is becoming increasingly rare that students or supervisors pursue this option, but if you feel this path is for you, we welcome your application. Examples might include:
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Research MSc to PhD Fast track |
For aspiring PhD candidates, the typical pathway often involves initially enrolling in a Research Master's program. Your performance during this first year will determine whether your supervisor recommends your progression to a full PhD track in the subsequent academic year. As explained, PhD supervision is not only a big commitment from you, but also from your PhD supervisor. Rushing into multi-year commitments can lead to mismatches in mutual expectation. If this is the path you feel is right for you, you need to take some time to prepare to find a supervisor. These people are extremely busy and are overloaded by constant unsolicited email. Sending half-hearted, unprepared, or unprofessional mass emails will harm your chances. Similarly, frequently resending emails and demanding a reply will work against you. Take some time to reflect on what you have to offer and why you are worth the time investment. Don't take a lack of response personally and avoid trying to read into the absence of a reply. |