One of the keys to successful research studies is the supervision team as they can bring experience and expertise to the table

A key component of success in doctoral or research studies is the supervision team. It is common for several experienced academics to work together to supervise each research candidate along their research journey. Supervisors often bring a range of methodological and research methods expertise, and/or diverse disciplinary perspectives or experiences with the subject matter. The ideal combination of supervisors involves a blend of key research skills and subject matter experience to support the specific project.

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Generally, one supervisor is designated as the primary supervisor and takes overall responsibility for the study. This involves undertaking administration related to the study and student, leading final decision-making about the project and managing the project, student and supervisor panel.

‘The best supervision teams are those that work together collaboratively to support the research student’

While institutions will have their individual requirements, the primary supervisor is usually an experienced researcher with previous supervision experience.

Adding research project expertise to methodology, methods and subject matter

Beyond the primary supervisor, co-supervisors play a vital role in supporting the student. Co-supervisors bring additional expertise to the methodology, methods and/or subject matter to support the conduct of the project and student learning. However, they also play a vital role in providing additional checks and balances beyond the primary supervisors to ensure the research is well-designed and conducted in line with acceptable practices and research integrity guidelines.

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Co-supervisors must actively participate in the supervision process and be actively engaged in all aspects of the project. They must speak up if things are not going well and work together to find solutions to challenges faced.

The best supervision teams are those that work together collaboratively to support the research student. This involves open and honest communication between supervisors and the candidate to establish shared goals, equitable workload distribution and well-defined ways of working.

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It also involves all supervisors working together to raise issues and address concerns to ensure that all research is conducted ethically, appropriately and offers good learning opportunities for the candidate.

Elizabeth Halcomb is professor of primary healthcare nursing, School of Nursing, University of Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia and editor of Nurse Researcher