Dealing with problems that may arrise during research candidature

Candidates in higher degree by research programs may encounter difficulties of various kinds during study towards the degree. Most concerns will be addressed through ongoing discussions with the chair (primary supervisor) and members of your supervisory panel. Other University staff are available to advise on academic and administrative matters. You and your supervisor may deal with issues through the annual progress reporting process. The confidential UC Higher Degree by Research Survey is another opportunity for candidates to draw attention to issues affecting their research experience at UC.

There may, however, be difficulties relating to progress in your research program that you are unable or unwilling to raise directly with the supervisor or in the confidential survey or the annual progress report. Such problems may relate to supervision or the supervisor-candidate relationship. To address these issues the University has established formal and informal procedures that candidates may follow if they believe that their work is not proceeding satisfactorily for reasons outside their control.

Informal pathways for resolving problems include discussion with the chair of your supervisory panel (normally the first step), another panel member, a suitable member of academic staff (such as the Associate Dean Research), or the Dean in your Faculty.  You can also call on support services such as the Students' Association, Dean of Students, International Students Adviser or the University Counselling Service.

If the issue is still unresolved, a research candidate may make formal representations, first (and if appropriate) to the chair of the supervisory panel, then to the Associate Dean Research, and finally the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research).

The Dean of Students may be consulted for confidential advice and guidance at any stage. All UC students have access to Student Grievance Resolution Procedures.

For further information as well as general advice on managing the supervisor-candidate relationship, please refer to the Supervision of Higher Degrees by Research Candidates Policy, found in Part 4 of the Gold Book: http://www.canberra.edu.au/research-students/goldbook