Dear Solutions Lab, I’m feeling lost and unsure about how to navigate my PhD supervision. I have two supervisors, but they’re rarely available, and when I do manage to meet them, they don’t seem to remember what we’re working on. Each time, they suggest completely different directions, leaving me confused about what I should actually be focusing on. I try to be independent, but I feel like I’m constantly shifting gears with no real progress.
I know there’s a postdoc in the lab who might be able to help, but they always seem so busy, and I don’t want to be a burden. How can I get some clarity and direction without feeling like I’m pestering people who already have too much on their plates?
— Feeling Adrift
It’s absolutely okay to approach the postdoc, but first, make sure they’re willing and will receive proper credit for their time and contribution. It sounds like you need a supervisor who can offer both focus and regular availability. If your current supervisors aren’t able to provide this, it might be time to consider bringing in a third supervisor. Ideally, this should be discussed openly with your existing supervisors, highlighting the need for more consistent contact and guidance.
My recommendation would be to invite the postdoc to become your third supervisor, aiming for regular meetings—perhaps weekly or fortnightly. Alongside this, organise meetings with your original two supervisors together every four to six weeks. It’s crucial that everyone meets collectively to maintain clarity and alignment. Be transparent about feeling adrift; your honesty can strengthen your case for a more engaged third supervisor.
It definitely sounds like you’re in need of a third, more accessible supervisor. Ideally, your current supervisors will welcome this idea and support you in formally establishing the postdoc as your third supervisor, ensuring they receive full credit for their role. This recognition is essential for the postdoc’s career progression and should be clearly outlined from the start.
Practically speaking, meeting monthly with two supervisors who are rarely available might be ambitious. If you successfully appoint a third supervisor who can provide consistent guidance, meetings with your original supervisors could then realistically occur once or twice per academic term.
If your supervisors aren’t receptive to this suggestion, you’ll need extra support. I recommend involving your Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) to help mediate and facilitate the arrangement of a third supervisor.
Additionally, regardless of which option you pursue, taking detailed notes during every supervision meeting is invaluable. Keep these notes accessible to all supervisors—even if they don’t routinely check them. This practice provides clear documentation of decisions and can help manage changing expectations and directions. I’ve personally seen this approach work exceptionally well for students managing multiple supervisors, and I believe it’s beneficial for every PhD candidate.
Dr Yvonne Couch
Dr Becky Carlyle
Emily Spencer
