Thesis Committee

Primary supervisors interact with candidates to direct student research and usually represent the most important external influences in the development that occurs during doctoral training. Complete training of the candidate to meet international standards normally requires a team-based approach that combines the abilities of more than one person. Typically other academics with experience in research and supervision in related or complementary fields contribute importantly as members of the student’s thesis committee.

The doctoral School Molecular Biology and Biochemistry encourages students to assemble a thesis committee of at least 3 supervisors who will meet at least once a year. Meetings of the committee give students opportunities to present and defend their research plans, to discuss their results and interpretations, to evaluate and comment on the work of others, and to participate in discussions on technical and scientific issues.The committee broadens the scope of the learning environment and helps direct, trouble shoot and reprogram the research project as it develops.

The supervisory team not only monitors student progress but also the quality of research being done. The committee also makes the primary supervisors accountable and identifies and resolves problems or inappropriate conduct.

The student is asked at registration to nominate a mentor. This person is typically a member of the thesis committee who agrees to advise the student in a personal capacity, particularly in human aspects of the supervisor-student relationship.

• Thesis Committee- Nomination
• Thesis Committee- Report