Step 2: Finding a Supervisor
Purpose:
Identifying a suitable academic supervisor is crucial to the success of a PhD. A good supervisor provides guidance, expertise in your research area, and supports your academic and professional development.
What to Consider When Finding a Supervisor:
- Research Alignment:
- Look for academics whose research interests match your topic.
- Read their recent publications to assess alignment and methodological fit.
- Consider their past supervision experience (e.g., how many students they’ve supervised and in what topics).
- Institutional Fit:
- Check if they are affiliated with a department or research center aligned with your topic.
- Verify if they are accepting new PhD students.
- Reputation & Supervision Style:
- Talk to their current or former students to learn about their availability, supportiveness, and supervision style.
- Search for feedback in academic forums or ask informally during conferences.
- Contacting Potential Supervisors:
- Write a clear, concise email introducing yourself, your academic background, and your proposed research.
- Attach a short research proposal or concept note (1-2 pages).
- Mention why you are interested in working with them specifically.