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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

10. Thank you!