This masterclass provides starting PhD students with an approach, procedures and tools for making an effective start with their PhD project in order to prevent problems and delays later on. A key element is the further operationalization, discussion and presentation of the PhD proposal.

The masterclass covers the basics of what you need to make a good start with your PhD project and consists of mini-lectures combined with practical training directly applied to participant work.  It is offered as in company training in 4 sessions of 3 hours each over a period of 4 months.

Session by session

1) A good start: getting to know the way

•  welcome to the new PhD students from the graduate school / research school
  • organizational and practical information to help you find your way and place at the university
  • expectations of the PhD candidates and supervisors: rights and obligations, different types of PhD in the Dutch system, monitoring, evaluations & supervision PhD candidates, go/no-go decisions, etc.
• know your peers and the projects you are involved with: present your (preliminary) research proposal
• round table discussion about the nature of doing a PhD

2) Project management

• overview of the stages of a PhD project & work plan & planning
• develop your own project plan in relation to this: project management
• develop your research proposal & prepare your training and education plan

3) Working effectively

• time management
• work – life balance
• evaluate, refine and adjust work plan according to progress of the project

4) Qualities & motivation

• motivation and professional development
• be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
• know your own goals & inspiration in your project
• communicate successfully with your supervisor and other faculty and support staff
• effectively receive and provide feedback