Changing supervisors or IPC
A change can be considered when circumstances require it, but it needs formal authorisation. Examples include staff departure, prolonged illness or a substantial change of research focus.
If a supervisor is leaving or unavailable
The School Research Degrees Leader should arrange a timely handover or alternative supervision as soon as an unexpected absence is known. A departing supervisor may remain an external supervisor but cannot remain DoS. The team must continue to meet the requirements in Supervisory team and meeting expectations.
If you want a change
Discuss it openly with the team where appropriate. If your request is contrary to the supervisors’ wishes, the framework says the process can proceed only through a formal complaint. Discuss the situation with your Independent Panel Chair and see Complaints, appeals and conduct. A preferred replacement is not guaranteed to be available.
Formal paperwork
| Change | Form | Authorisation described in the main text |
|---|---|---|
| Supervisory team | RD11 | SRDL, after new members are identified and all parties, including you, consent |
| IPC | RD11-IPC | SRDL |
| Temporary specialist adviser | RD11b | School process |
Appendix 2 records School RDC approval for these forms, while the main text specifies SRDL authorisation. Ask the School administrator to route the paperwork correctly. Downloads: Forms directory.
Sources: Framework §§4.6, 4.10; Appendix 2, pp. 45–47, 50–51, 102. Read the source.