Choosing your research supervisor

Are you thinking of enrolling in a research-based master’s or doctoral program?

First, you need to fill out an application: paper-based or online (in French only).

You do not need to choose a research supervisor to guide you in your studies and research work before you submit your application. However, it is preferable to undertake the process quickly, because a professor (your future research supervisor) must necessarily endorse your application in order for you to be admitted.

• Have you already contacted a professor in your field of interest? Write his or her name in your application. This does not mean, however, that the professor will commit to accepting your application sight unseen.
• If you did not write the name of a research supervisor on your application, it will be passed around the department. A professor who is interested in your profile and in your research interests may then contact you or accept your application.

 

skills to look for in your future research supervisor

• Established expertise in the discipline (content, methodology, international contact networks, etc.);
• A genuine interest in your research topic;
• A desire to guide you in your work (availability, feedback, help in defining your research topic, support in planning the various stages of your project, etc.);
• Encouragement for you to publish the results of your research.

 

Procedure

To identify a research supervisor, you have three options:

• Consulting the directory of professors by research expertise to identify a research supervisor working in your area of interest.
• Discussion with the professors who have taught you, if you are in your preparatory semester with a view to entering a master’s program.
• Discussion with the department’s graduate program co-ordinator to learn about the programs of study related to your field of research.

You can then contact one or more professors in person or by e-mail. Introduce yourself, list the strong points in your CV, specify the program that interests you, and discuss the following points with the professor:

• How do the subjects the professor works with interest you? Show that you have done your homework.
• Is the professor available to work with you?
• Can the professor provide financial aid, and if so, what kind? If you have a bursary, mention it.
• Can the professor give you contact information for a member of his/her research team so that you can speak with that person and tour the laboratories?
• What is his/her preferred supervisory approach?
• Any other questions that seem relevant to you.

In response, the professor will let you know whether your profile is of interest to him/her, and as needed may suggest other professors whose work is a closer fit with your interests.

It is possible to request a change in research supervisor while you are in the program using the appropriate form (*).You can also contact the graduate student association (AÉCSP) for information about student life for graduate students.