Professor Liam Marnane Head School of Engineering Structured PhD Professor Liam Marnane Head School of Engineering

Changing Nature of PhD Can we help students prepare for research better? Can we broaden the areas they learn about? What do they do afterwards and how can we prepare them for this? EU Principles for Innovative Doctoral Training National Framework

UCC Structured PhD Pillar 1: High quality research experience Pillar 2: Modules for Credit & other training opportunities Pillar 3: Annual Review Pillar 4: Co-Supervision or Supervisor & Advisor

Pillar 2: Coursework and Training 15 credit minimum level of training Typical expected level up to 30 credits Maximum 90 Credits Postgraduate Training Modules Disciplinary Training Modules Up to 10 credits can be awarded for external modules

Transferable Skills Training Research skills and awareness Ethics and social understanding Communication skills Personal effectiveness/development Team working and leadership Career management Entrepreneurship & innovation

Factors in Choosing Modules Training Needs Analysis – what do you need help with? Consider your workload Consider the relevance (note how these are judged by others, e.g., IRCHSS) Check timing of delivery and how to apply What are the benefits? What about intellectual satisfaction/ stimulation How can you accelerate your completion? Don’t sign up for everything that is available

Pillar 3 Annual Reviews For your Benefit 3 Years is a long time Run by Local Graduate Studies Committee Report Presentation Poster NOT an EXAM

Pillar 4 Supervision Supervisory team Sole supervisor + PhD advisor 2 or more staff members with significant responsibility for the direction of the student’s research Sole supervisor + PhD advisor

Advisor Model of Supervision Pastoral care and student support Procedural issues Induction and integration with School / Dept Contact: supervisor/student relationship break down Does not offer specialist academic support Expected to meet the student twice per year Safety net Not expected to play a role in the progress review process

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