In three words or phrases: Laid-back, supportive, understanding.
Provision of Training
I prefer to take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later. It is good to try to find solutions to things yourself, but I encourage my students to discuss things and ask for help when needed.
Progression Monitoring and Management
I expect to be kept up to date more regularly in the early stages, where we might set priorities on a weekly/monthly basis. In the later stages I will expect you to take full ownership of your progression but come to me when you need help troubleshooting. I know that the rate of progression can vary and that learning a new technique can take time.
Communication
I value collegiality and my door is always open. I often have chats with student about broader issues in the field (e.g. current controversies) or non-work topics, but I’m open to establishing a mode of communication that suits us both.
I like to think that my students feel comfortable discussing pastoral issues with me and I will support them as much as I am able.
I try to avoid sending emails out-of-hours so as not to set an expectation that you should always be working. I am fairly laid back and don’t expect immediate replies to non-urgent emails (which is most of them!).
PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:
In a group meeting
At least once per fortnight
In year 1 of PhD study
At least once per fortnight
In year 2 of PhD study
At least once per fortnight
In year 3 of PhD study
At least once per fortnight
These meetings will be a mixture of face to face, via video chat or telephone, and I am usually contactable for an instant response (if required) on every working day.
Working Pattern
The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings), I expect students to manage their own time.
Notice Period for Feedback
I need at least 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.
