Research supervision is one of the most important aspects of a successful postgraduate research experience.
UC's supervisors are leaders in their fields, with expertise across a wide range of disciplines. From award-winning researchers to internationally renowned academics, our supervisors are deeply committed to advancing knowledge and fostering student growth. You will be mentored by people who are not only experts but passionate about helping you succeed.
What Sets UC Supervisors Apart:
Expertise: UC has over 1000 research-active staff across diverse disciplines.
Global Connections: UC supervisors are globally connected and often collaborate with researchers from around the world.
Industry Links: Many supervisors are involved in projects with industry partners, giving students access to real-world applications for their research.
How Our Supervisors Support You:
Initial Support: From the moment you choose your research topic, you’ll work closely with your supervisor to refine your ideas and create a clear research plan.
Ongoing Mentorship: Throughout your research, your supervisor will offer regular feedback and guidance, ensuring you’re on track and overcoming challenges.
Professional Development: UC supervisors don’t just help with your research – they help you build skills that will enhance your academic and professional future, such as presenting at conferences, publishing papers, and networking.
How to Find a Research Supervisor
Explore UC Research profiles to identify academics who are experts in your research area and who may be able to become your research supervisor.
Once you’ve found a potential supervisor, contact the staff member to discuss your research interests and to see if they are able to take you on as their research student.
Supervisors by Faculty
The Supervision Process at UC
At UC we offer a structured process that ensures you receive all the support you need at each stage of your research journey and maximises your research potential.
Initial Research Stage:
Research Proposal Development: Your supervisor will guide you through developing your research proposal, ensuring it meets academic standards.
Supervisor Selection: While developing your research proposal you will work with your supervisor to engage a supervisory team whose research expertise aligns with your project.
During Your Research:
Regular Meetings: UC encourages regular one-on-one meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and ideas. These meetings provide personalised advice and ongoing mentorship.
Feedback and Evaluation: Supervisors provide constructive feedback on drafts, helping you refine your research methodology, analysis, and writing.
Post-Research Support:
Preparing for Publication: Supervisors help you write and refine papers for publication in academic journals, a key milestone in your research journey.
Postgraduate Career Advice: UC supervisors help prepare you for your career post-study, whether it’s in academia, industry, or beyond.
A Supportive Research Community
Research is not just an individual pursuit. Supervisors encourage collaboration with other researchers, including PhD candidates, Master’s students, and faculty. This collaborative environment creates a rich, supportive community where you can share ideas, get feedback, and develop as a researcher.
Research Seminars and Workshops provide opportunities for students to present their work, receive peer feedback, and network with academics from various fields.
We understand the emotional and mental demands of research. UC offers wellbeing services and dedicated support to help students manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance throughout their research journey.
Hear from our Supervisors
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Associate Professor Hazel Chapman
Faculty of Science | School of Biological Sciences
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Associate Professor Hazel Chapman
Faculty of Science | School of Biological Sciences
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Associate Professor Hazel Chapman
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Associate Professor Dr. Jaanik Haas
Faculty of Engineering | Civil and Environmental Engineering
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Associate Professor Dr. Jaanik Haas
Faculty of Engineering | Civil and Environmental Engineering
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Associate Professor Dr. Jaanik Haas
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Dr. Jennifer Hoi Ki Wong
Senior Lecturer, School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing
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Dr. Jennifer Hoi Ki Wong
Senior Lecturer, School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing
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Dr. Jennifer Hoi Ki Wong
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Professor Laurie McLay
Deputy Director, Child Wellbeing Research Institute
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Professor Laurie McLay
Deputy Director, Child Wellbeing Research Institute
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Professor Laurie McLay
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Distinguished Professor Steven Ratuva
Director, Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies
Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific | University of Canterbury
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Distinguished Professor Steven Ratuva
Director, Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies
Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific | University of Canterbury
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Distinguished Professor Steven Ratuva
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Professor Philip Vermeulen
Faculty of Business | Department of Economics and Finance
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Professor Philip Vermeulen
Faculty of Business | Department of Economics and Finance
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Professor Philip Vermeulen
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Associate Professor Richard Bullen
Faculty of Arts | Art History
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Associate Professor Richard Bullen
Faculty of Arts | Art History
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Associate Professor Richard Bullen
Explore Postgraduate Research Degrees at UC
Discover how a research master’s or doctoral degree at the University of Canterbury can advance your future.
