PhD progress panels
FMS postgraduate training workshop
Monday 7 March 2011
Professor Dianne Ford
Director of PhD Studies, FMS
PhD supervisor/progress panel member
Overview
• Preparation
– Research report/literature review
– (Presentation)
– Student’s report to panel
• During the interview
• After the interview
Preparation
• Research report/review
– Read guidelines.
• First review – literature review, aims, preliminary results (7,500
words)
• Second (and third) review – shorter report (3/4 pages; maximum
10): summary of data, detailed analysis of some data; strengths
and weaknesses; “to do” list; appendix
• Final review – detailed breakdown of structure of thesis;
identify research to complete
– Provide sufficient information to “bring your panel up to speed”.
– Ask your supervisor for feedback.
• Check he/she will be available and agree a deadline for
submission of a draft, giving you sufficient time to
make any changes
– Pay attention to presentation.
– Submit in good time, including a hard copy if required.
Preparation
• Presentation
– Stick to rules/guidelines
– Make sure the presentation helps you to communicate
effectively
• Show key “visual” information, avoid use of lots of text
etc.
– Ask for input from supervisor
Preparation
• Student’s report to the panel
– Be honest and reflective
• Discuss in advance with your supervisor/supervisory
team/institute PG Research Student Coordinator any
issues raised?
Preparation
• Know your panel
• Read your report
• Lab books/research diaries and
information on training attended
Preparation
• Know your panel
• Read your report
• Lab books/research diaries and
information on training attended
• Be organised
– Arrange date and time well in advance and as convenients for
panel members, book room (and inform panel), get key, set up
PC and projector etc.
During the interview
• Don’t assume the panel has expert knowledge of every
aspect of your project.
– Provide reminders/clarification where you think helpful.
• Don’t be afraid to defend your research, but be
receptive to panel’s suggestions.
• Take the opportunity raise any concerns you may have
– E.g. completion of research, attendance at training courses and access to
other activities important to your training and future career
• Remember, it’s a “progress review” rather than an
“assessment”
After the interview
• Reflect
• On receipt of panel report
– Discuss recommendations etc. with supervisor/supervisory
team.
– Be proactive in engaging in any activities/practices
recommended or required by the Head of Institute
(Institute PG Research Student Coordinator).
Finally....
• Bear in mind that the review process is
for YOUR benefit