Supervision
Most researchers will supervise research trainees, such as Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates, Honours students or research assistants. Many researchers find that supervision is one of the most rewarding parts of their work, allowing them to expand their research portfolio and to pass on their knowledge and expertise. In doing so, supervisors play an important role in promoting quality research that is conducted with integrity.
UQ researchers act in accordance with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research (2018) and the University’s Responsible Research Management Framework Policy, which include the following responsibilities related to supervision:
Provide guidance and mentorship on responsible research conduct to other researchers or research trainees under their supervision and, where appropriate, monitor their conduct
Supervisors will promote responsible practices in all areas of research including ethics compliance, management of data and materials, authorship, and publication and dissemination of research outputs. Supervisors will also ensure that all trainees receive education in discipline-based research methods and related skills. Supervisors must have competency to fulfil these obligations and seek support where required. Supervisors should familiarise themselves with the Higher Degree by Research Candidate Charter Procedure or Student Code of Conduct Policy and related UQ policies and procedures.
Training for HDR advisors
Good supervision begins with a clear understanding of the roles, responsibilities and expectations of all parties. The University offers online and face-to-face courses to help HDR supervisors understand their responsibilities and to equip them with the essential knowledge needed for good supervision. Development opportunities can be found on the Graduate School Intranet (staff login required) and the Staff Development website.