Research Mentor
The IHP PhD program has a one-on-one mentorship model of training. Each student must identify and receive a formal commitment from a Research Mentor prior to starting the program. The Research Mentor is an experienced/active investigator who is engaged in well-established programs of research that roughly align with the interests of the student. The Research Mentor may be an IHP Faculty member or may hold a position at an outside institution. This mentor must formally commit to providing the time, training and mentorship necessary for the student to develop as a scientist, complete program requirements, and execute a successful dissertation (see 3.1.6 Dissertation), including ongoing active involvement in all aspects of the PhD Program that pertain to the student’s performance/progress in the research realm. Research mentor responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Overall supervision and guidance of student training and research activities and career development
-
Attending weekly or biweekly meetings with student to provide guidance and feedback
-
Attending student’s annual Interdisciplinary Seminar presentation
-
Working with the student and the Academic Advisor to devise a supplemental course plan (see section 3.1.2)
-
Supervising the student’s summer mentored researches experiences, and providing a grade of pass or fail to the Associate Director
-
Providing or helping the student secure research fellowships and resources for the dissertation projects
-
Supporting the student in meeting program milestones (e.g., helping prepare for the qualifying exam, prospectus meeting, dissertation defense) (See sections 3.1.4. to 3.1.6)
-
Working with the student to create a career development plan
- Meeting on a regular (ie, quarterly) basis to evaluate progress and provide feedback in regards to the career development plan
- Ensuring that the three manuscripts that make up the dissertation are submitted to a journal prior to graduation
The Research Mentor must be approved by the program’s Executive Committee as part of the admissions process.