Navigating challenges in the supervisory relationship

If you encounter any difficulties in your working relationship, students and supervisors should both:

• Raise issues early: don’t wait—address issues as soon as they arise.
• Try to resolve it first: open, honest conversation can often help. Use our key tools for supervision to structure your discussion.
• Seek support: talk to peers, or a trusted person in a pastoral or support role if you need advice.
• Discuss the situation with your School PGR Director. If they may be considered to have a conflict of interest raise it with your Faculty Academic Director (PGR).
• Remember, you're not alone—support is available at every stage.

Who to go to for support 

Your School PGR Director is a good starting point for guidance on navigating issues. You can find details of who this is via your Faculty PGR Director or Bristol Doctoral College if you are unsure.

Look up relevant contact details for PGR support

PGR students can also contact:

• Bristol SU's Academic Advice Team for support and advice
• Wellbeing Services if you feel issues are impacting your wellbeing.

If you are a supervisor, read about who can support you in your role

Change of supervisor

In cases where issues cannot be resolved, your Head of School may appoint a new supervisor or explore other options. However, it is expected that efforts have been made to resolve this prior to a request being made.

Any changes in supervision will need to consider:

• funder requirements a
• student's needs
• the replacement's ability to effectively supervise the project.

Find out more about a change of supervisor.