Finding a supervisor

Choosing the right supervisor is one of the most important steps in your research journey.

As a research candidate, you’ll be supported by a panel of supervisors who will help shape your research, monitor your progress, and provide advice, feedback and guidance throughout your HDR journey. This begins with identifying an academic researcher to be your Primary Supervisor.

At UC, it’s a requirement — before you submit your Expression of Interest (EOI), you must independently identify and contact a potential Primary Supervisor to discuss your proposed project. You will need to include evidence of the Supervisor’s willingness to supervise with your EOI, as submissions received without it will not proceed to Faculty review.

A well-matched supervisor can help you refine your research direction, guide your development as a researcher, and connect you to valuable academic and industry networks. The right partnership can accelerate your progress, strengthen your work, and increase the real-world impact of your research.

• Address the academic by name
• Include a brief CV or resume, with an outline of your academic background, achievements, qualifications
• Describe any relevant research and professional experience
• Provide a concise outline of what you want to research and your motivations
• Explain why you want them to supervise your research project
• Include your ideal start date
• Get the subject line right – ensure you clearly capture what the email is about in your subject line

Once the supervisor has confirmed their preliminary support to supervise you, include evidence of this with your EOI. Without this evidence EOI’s will be marked as unsuccessful.