Doctoral Supervision at EUI

Doctoral supervision is a core activity of the European University Institute. Of course, the excellence of the EUI as a whole depends on the excellence of its core activity – the preparation of the doctoral thesis.

Doctoral supervision at the EUI is regulated by Article 4.2 in the Academic Rules and Regulations and guided by a Code of Practice that sets out a basic framework for the relationship between the supervisor and the supervisee. The quality of doctoral supervision among doctoral candidates is assessed during the third term of each academic year by means of a written questionnaire , that fully respects the anonymity of respondents.

A positive and functional relationship between researcher and supervisor is indispensable for the achievement of their academic and career objectives. In order to facilitate the assessment of the quality of the supervisory relationship in the earlier stages and reduce potential communication barriers, researchers are strongly encouraged to contemplate their relationship with their supervisors and are invited to discuss their concerns with the Director of Graduate Studies in their academic department or with the Dean of Graduate Studies .

If you feel that the quality of your supervisory relationship is below average in the following key questions, feel free to discuss your concerns with the Director of Graduate Studies in your Department or the Dean of Graduate Studies

Generally speaking, are you satisfied with your supervisor?
Generally speaking, do you find your supervisor approachable?

How satisfied are you with the contribution of your supervisor in providing . . .

Academic guidance on the development of your thesis?
Useful feedback on your written work?
A timely response to your written work?
Appropriate methodological guidance for your thesis?
General guidance on the structure and style of your thesis?
Guidance and advice on courses and seminars in the EUI and elsewhere?
Guidance and advice on the planning and the timetabling of your work?
General support, motivation and encouragement in the development of your work?
General advice and assistance in your pursuit of an academic (or where relevant, non-academic) career?
Support and advice (if and) when you have approached him/her with a problem and not related to your thesis (i.e. a problem concerning your personal welfare)?