Contacting a potential supervisor is usually the first step you’ll take after you decide on your PhD project or topic area.
If you know the subject area you want to work in but do not have a particular supervisor in mind, you can explore our PhD topic areas.
Contact the supervisor you want to work with by searching for their profile. Each profile indicates if the person is currently accepting PhD applications.
Once you've decided on your research area and have considered your proposal, draw up a shortlist 2 to 3 supervisors that match your research interests.
Your PhD supervisor could be someone:
You can learn about their research by reading their publications, books, reports and work in the community. You'll usually find this information on:
Some potential supervisors will list their current and previous PhD students, with links to their profiles. Their experience may be useful in helping you to make your decision.
Your supervisor will be someone you regularly work and interact with. It's important to feel you could build a relationship with them. You both need to feel you make a good match.
Email is usually the best way to contact a potential supervisor. You will find a supervisor’s contact email on their staff profile.
When sending your first email, it’s a good idea to:
Allow 2 to 3 weeks for an initial response. If you haven't received a response in that time, you can contact the faculty graduate school office.
Please contact our faculty graduate schools by email if you need further guidance.
For more general advice on contacting a potential supervisor, visit FindaPhD.