Research student checklist

The top questions for new research students

1. Have I done any research on this particular supervisor?
2. Have I spoken to the supervisor's other students?       
3. Why am I interested in this particular proposed research area?
4. What am I hoping that this supervisor will contribute to the project?
5. Have I considered the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion implications of undertaking this project and if I require any reasonable accommodations which I should discuss with my Supervisor?
6. Have I registered for my programme online? / paid appropriate fees? 
7. Have I discussed my expectations of the Doctorate / Masters by Research with my supervisor?
8. Have I agreed a schedule for meetings with my supervisor?    
9. Am I aware of the role of each of the following in my research?                                                             
   • Principal Supervisor
   • Co-Supervisor
   • Research Studies Panel
   • Research & Professional Development Plan (RPDP)
   • Transfer Assessment
   • Skills training and credit requirements for Doctorate
   • Research Ethics & GDPR                                                               
10. Have I identified my training needs?    
11. Is my Research Studies Panel in place? When is the first meeting??   
12. Have I discussed with my supervisor how we will work together?
    • Planning of meetings
    • Responsibilities / Roles
    • Monitoring and assessment
13. Have I discussed with my supervisor the University requirements for successfully completing a Doctorate?
14. Do I know who the Governing Board Representative is for my School?
15. Who is the Graduate Adviser for my School/College?
16. Have I met peers, colleagues, professional staff in the School?            
17. Do I know who to approach if I find myself struggling?
18. Have I accessed all relevant policies, procedures and guidelines pertaining to graduate research in UCD?