Responsibilities

Members of the supervisory panel will seek to impart knowledge of research methods to the candidates under their supervision and guide them in acquiring research experience.

The test of the success of that training is assessed through the thesis or major work which, in the case of a PhD, is expected to provide clear evidence of originality and thereby make some significant contribution to knowledge. At least some of this work should be of a level suitable for publication in a recognised journal of the field.

A Masters (Honours) thesis should demonstrate the candidate's competence in research methodology and its critical application in the chosen field of study.

Appointment of Examiners, Thesis Lodgement, Examiners Reports

See Examinations.

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Publications

Agreement should be reached between the candidate and members of the supervisory panel concerning authorship of publications and acknowledgment of contributions during and after candidature. There should be open and mutual recognition of the candidate's and any supervisor's contribution on all published work arising from the project. Candidates should be encouraged to publish during their candidature.

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Problems

Difficulties of one sort or another may arise during candidatures, and candidates and members of the supervisory panel should be aware of the problem solving mechanisms and the support services which exist within the University, and to ensure that the College Research Management and Training Director is kept informed as necessary.

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Responsibilities

The responsibility of the supervisory panel over the initial phase of candidature extends to (i) ensuring access to resources, as specified in UWS and College policies; (ii) encouraging the candidate to participate in the research culture within UWS; and (iii) ensuring that commitments made in respect of availability and contact are met by the candidate and the supervisory panel. The supervisory panel has a responsibility to provide timely feedback to the candidate on progress.

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Monitoring Progress

See Measures of Achievement, Annual Reports.

As the candidature progresses, different contact arrangements may be appropriate, but the candidate and members of the supervisory panel must be clear on what they expect of the others. The panel Principal Supervisor and the candidate should monitor progress made within the context of the overall research plan. When the time comes for writing the thesis, supervisors should be ready to advise on the requirements on style etc., and should give prompt feedback on drafts submitted.

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Administrative Requirements

The Principal Supervisor should know where to find out the various degree and other administrative requirements and advise the candidate as necessary. He or she should ensure that the candidate seeks necessary approvals for absences from the University, and that the candidate receives any due entitlement within the College.

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Time

An important part of research training is the completion of a project within a particular time frame. In this regard, a critical early phase is when the supervisory panel assists the candidate in drawing up a research proposal.

UWS has introduced "Measures of Achievement" in the first year of candidature to assist this process. The Principal Supervisor must pay particular attention to the likely time scale of the project, bearing in mind that a three-year PhD candidature should be an objective.

The Principal Supervisor should ensure that the candidate is aware of the standards expected of the degree concerned, and identify with the candidate the particular research skills that will need to be agreed indicators of progress being made. It will take note of known periods of leave. The Principal Supervisor should ensure that sufficient time is left for writing up the thesis.

For more information, please see Completion Times.

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