CPD type
Facilitator resource
Supervisor experience
New supervisors
Intervention lead author
Dr Eleanor Loughlin, University of Nottingham
1
Released as part of
Phase 1
Piloting feedback deadline
31 March 2026
Page last updated
23 September 2025
This modular resource offers a flexible framework for designing or refreshing supervisor induction, aligning local policies with national expectations and encouraging reflection, discussion, and professional development. It can be delivered as a standalone two-to-three-hour induction or adapted into shorter, topic-specific sessions that integrate into onboarding or ongoing continuing professional development programmes.
Learning objectives
By the end of this intervention, participants will:
understand the purpose and scope of supervisor induction, and how it links to onboarding and continuing professional development.
be familiar with key institutional processes, policies, and structures that underpin doctoral supervision (e.g. governance, admissions, progress monitoring).
recognise the value of expectation setting, skills development, and research culture engagement in supporting PGR success.
reflect on their own experiences of supervision and identify strategies for building inclusive and supportive practices.
be signposted to further resources, colleagues, and opportunities for ongoing development as a doctoral supervisor.
Delivery format & timings
This modular resource can be delivered as a standalone two-to-three-hour induction or adapted into shorter, topic-specific sessions that integrate into onboarding or ongoing professional development programmes
Theme(s)
Getting supervisors started
Resource pack format
All resource packs are in the form of a compressed zip folder. To unzip and access all the contents of the zipped folder, press and hold (or right-click) the folder, select "Extract All" and then follow the on-screen instructions.