PhD Supervisors
PhD supervision is one of the most rewarding - and complex - roles of an academic. As a supervisor, you are at once a content expert, co-researcher, coach, and assessor. The quality of your supervision is a key factor in the success and well-being of your PhD candidates.
To support you in this important role, the HR Learning and Development team, in collaboration with the Groningen Graduate Schools, has created a flexible, hybrid training programme. This course will help strengthen your knowledge, skills, and confidence, so that you can grow as a more and effective and inspiring supervisor."
(Are you new to supervision at the University of Groningen? Join the event "Introduction for new PhD supervisors at RUG/UMCG")
The Qualification: Supervision Excellence at the University of Groningen
Earning the qualification is simple and structured in three steps:
- Register by completing the intake form (see below).
- Complete the online course “Successful PhD Supervision: A Shared Journey” . You can register with your @rug.nl email and follow this independently, at your own pace.
- Attend at least three workshops of your choice. Ideally, choose one from each of the three thematic blocks (see below).
After completing these steps, you’ll be asked to fill in a short questionnaire. This will start the process of issuing your official certificate.
Workshops
Each workshop is offered multiple times a year and takes place in or near the Academy Building in Groningen. In these sessions, you will:
- Explore topics from the online course in greater depth
- Apply insights directly to your own supervision practice
- Exchange experiences with colleagues from across all UG faculties
- Learn with the guidance of an experienced trainer
You may register for workshops at any time—even if you are not pursuing the qualification. In fact, we encourage supervisors to keep joining workshops regularly, as ongoing professional development strengthens both your practice and the PhD community.
How to Get Started
- Complete the intake form
- Sign up for the online course
- Register for at least three workshops below (ideally one from each block)
Questions?
If you have any questions about the programme or experience issues with registration, please contact Anna Salzano (a.salzano rug.nl) or HR-Experts rug.nl.
Block 1: “The PhD journey”
Workshops related to the first part of the online course
Select at least one workshop from the options below to complement the first part of the online course and qualify for "Supervision excellence":
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Dates: |
More information and register: |
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1.1. PhD selection and interviewing techniques |
October 8, 2025 |
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1.2. Key aspects of supervisory success throughout the PhD trajectory |
October 7, 2025 |
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1.3. Aligning Supervision of Interfaculty PhD projects |
November 11, 2025 |
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1.4. Supervising the PhD Thesis Writing Process
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October 9, 2025 |
Block 2. “A person-centred and growth-oriented approach”
Workshops related to the second part of the online course
Select at least one workshop from the options below to complement the second part of the online course and qualify for "Supervision excellence":
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Dates: |
More information and register: |
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2.1. Effective feedback techniques for PhD supervision |
Nov 13, 2025 |
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2.2. Coaching techniques for development |
November 13, 2025 |
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2.3. What to do with a Stressed PhD |
February 19, 2026 |
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2.4. Supervision across the neurodiverse spectrum |
October 15, 2025 |
Block 3. “Supervision in context: developing a reflective attitude”
Workshops related to the third part of the online course
Select at least one workshop from the options below to complement the third part of the online course and qualify for "Supervision excellence":
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Dates: |
More information and register: |
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3.1. Supervision across cultures (workshop series) |
Workshop 1: |
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3.2. Social Safety in PhD supervision |
November 18, 2025 |
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3.3. Intervision (peer advising groups) and individual coaching |
On-going registration |
| Last modified: | 10 September 2025 3.40 p.m. |