Maintain a good relationship with your supervisor

Clear communication, setting achievable goals, and agreeing on mutual expectations and responsibilities with your supervisors are essential components of your research journey.

Setting expectations with your supervisor

Setting clear, mutual expectations with your supervisors is important to maintaining a good relationship with them and avoiding misunderstandings during your research journey.

Early in your candidature, you should meet with your supervisors to discuss:

  • some achievable short-term goals
  • expectations on the way the supervisors/research team work together
  • how the team will record research decisions and maintain contact for feedback
  • financial expenditure for equipment, conferences etc.
  • publication/co-publication strategies

You may consider using the MQ Graduate Research Setting Expectations Checklist to record your decisions.

As part of your Annual Progress Review meeting, you should review your mutual expectations and ensure they are still relevant and working for your both.

Note: The formal expectations of supervisors are outlined in the Graduate Research Supervision Procedure.

Maintaining a good relationship with your supervisor

Maintaining a good relationship with your supervisor is important to your academic success and personal growth. The following tips can help foster a positive and productive relationship with your supervisor:

  • keep open and regular communication with your supervisor - schedule meetings, provide updates on your progress, and discuss any challenges you're facing
  • respect your supervisor’s time and expertise - be punctual for meetings, meet deadlines, and be prepared with any required materials or questions
  • take the initiative in your research and academic activities - propose ideas, seek out additional resources, and demonstrate your commitment to your project
  • ensure your mutual expectations, roles, and responsibilities remain clear and continue to work for you both

What if things go wrong?

Sometimes you may find yourself at odds with your supervisor about your research progress or their supervision style. Your supervisor may not be aware that an issue exists until it is brought directly to their attention, so it is important to address your concerns informally with them as soon as possible - before they escalate.

If you are not comfortable having a conversation with your supervisor, or are not satisfied with the outcome of your discussion with them, you can:

  • raise your concerns directly with your School/Department Director of Research Training, MRes Advisor or Head of Department/School; or
  • book a meeting for an informal, confidential chat with one of our mediators.

What is a mediator?

A mediator is a neutral person who can support you to work through your concerns with your supervisor.  Meeting with a mediator:

  • offers you a neutral, safe space where you can express your concerns and feelings without fear of judgment or finding fault
  • provides you with impartial support to work through issues in an attempt to find a solution
  • is entirely voluntary – you can cease engagement at any time
  • is confidential – nothing is shared with the Graduate Research Academy or the University

To organise a meeting with a mediator, contact: gr.mediation@mq.edu.au.

NOTE: Incidents involving sexual harassment and/or assault must be reported in accordance with the Student Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Response Procedure. If your safety is threatened, report this using the Inappropriate and Unwanted Behaviour form and consult Level 2 of the Complaints Resolution Procedure for Students and Members of the Public.

Need further help?

If you are unable to resolve your issues through the avenues outlined above, you may consider escalating them via the Graduate Research Grievance Resolution process.