appreciation thank you message to phd supervisor

Guide: How to Say Thank You to Your PhD Supervisor

Completing a doctoral degree is an incredible achievement, and your PhD supervisor has played a crucial role in guiding you through this challenging journey. Expressing your gratitude towards your supervisor is not only polite but also helps nurture a long-lasting professional relationship. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say thank you to your PhD supervisor, both formally and informally. Let’s dive in!

Formal Ways to Say Thank You

Sending a formal thank you message or letter to your PhD supervisor is a thoughtful gesture that shows your gratitude for their guidance and support. Here are some tips for writing a formal thank you:

• Be sincere: Start by expressing your genuine appreciation for their help and insights during your doctoral journey.
• Highlight specific contributions: Mention the specific ways your supervisor aided your research, whether it was through funding, advice, or reviewing your work.
• Mention personal growth: Reflect upon how their mentorship has contributed to your personal growth as a researcher and professional in your field.
• Show gratitude for their time and effort: Acknowledge the countless hours spent providing feedback, attending meetings, and supporting your research.
• Offer to stay in touch: Convey your interest in maintaining a professional relationship and using their continued guidance in the future.

Example of a formal thank you email:

Dear [Supervisor’s Name], I am writing to express my sincerest gratitude for your invaluable guidance and unwavering support throughout my doctoral journey. Your expertise and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping my research and helping me achieve this significant milestone. I greatly appreciate the time and effort you devoted to providing constructive feedback on my work, attending numerous meetings, and offering invaluable insights that significantly enhanced the quality of my research. Not only have you fostered my academic growth, but your guidance has also influenced my personal development as a researcher. Your dedication to nurturing young scholars like myself is truly inspiring. I would love to stay connected and continue learning from your expertise in the future, as I believe your mentorship will be invaluable as I embark on the next phase of my career. Again, thank you for your exceptional guidance and support throughout. It has been an honor to be your student. Wishing you good health and continued success. Warm regards, [Your Name]

Informal Ways to Say Thank You

While formal messages are appreciated, expressing your gratitude in an informal manner can create a more personal connection with your PhD supervisor. Here are some tips for conveying your thanks in a less formal manner:

• Engage in a face-to-face conversation: Arrange a meeting with your supervisor to express your gratitude in person. This can be an opportunity for a heartfelt conversation.
• Express genuine emotions: Be authentic and express how grateful you are for their guidance and mentorship. Share anecdotes or specific moments that made a significant impact on your research journey.
• Offer a personal token of appreciation: Consider small gestures like a handwritten note, a meaningful book, or a personalized gift that reflects your supervisor’s interests or hobbies.
• Invite them to celebratory events: If appropriate, extend an invitation to any graduation ceremony or other events that mark the completion of your doctoral degree.

Example of an informal thank you conversation:

[Student]: Hey, [Supervisor’s Name]! I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks for everything you’ve done throughout my PhD journey. Your guidance and support have made a tremendous difference, and I cannot thank you enough. [Supervisor]: Thank you, [Your Name]. It’s been a pleasure mentoring you. Is there anything specific that you found particularly helpful? [Student]: Definitely! I truly appreciate the valuable feedback you provided during our weekly meetings. Your insights and expertise always pushed me to think outside the box, resulting in a research project that I am incredibly proud of. [Supervisor]: I’m glad to hear that. It was a pleasure working with you, and your dedication to your research made a significant impact. I have no doubt that you will achieve great things in your future endeavors. [Student]: Thank you for believing in me and for your continuous support. Your mentorship has not only shaped my academic journey but also inspired me to become a better researcher. I am forever grateful. [Supervisor]: You’re most welcome, [Your Name]. It’s been a pleasure being your supervisor. Remember, I’m here to support you even after you complete your PhD. Let’s keep in touch and continue this professional relationship. [Student]: Absolutely! I would love to stay connected. Thanks again, [Supervisor’s Name]. You’re the best!

Final Thoughts

Expressing your gratitude towards your PhD supervisor is essential in recognizing their efforts and maintaining a positive professional relationship. Whether you choose a formal written message or an informal heartfelt conversation, remember to be sincere, specific, and appreciative of their time and guidance. Your kind words and gratitude will undoubtedly be cherished by your supervisor for years to come.

Remember, completing a PhD is just the beginning of your journey, and your PhD supervisor’s mentorship can prove invaluable as you navigate future academic or professional milestones. So, take a moment to say thank you in a way that resonates with you and, most importantly, makes your supervisor feel appreciated.

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How to Say Thank You for a Thank You Note

Receiving a thank you note is a heartwarming gesture that shows someone appreciates you. Whether you've received a thank you note for a kind act, a gift, or a simple act of support, responding with gratitude is the perfect way to reciprocate the sentiment. In this guide, we'll explore different ways to say thank you for a thank you note, both formally and informally. Here you'll find numerous tips, examples, and variations to express your gratitude!

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Writing a thank you note to dissertation committee members, published by steve tippins on june 25, 2020 june 25, 2020.

Last Updated on: 2nd February 2024, 02:37 am

As much as your dissertation may have been a battle, and as much as members of your committee may have seemed unreasonable at times, their ultimate goal was to help you be a better researcher and finish your degree. They were your allies. So when you do finish, a strong thank you is important.

You may even dislike members of your committee, but remember that after you finish your dissertation , your committee members don’t just disappear. You will be working in a related field to them and having a good relationship with them may be important for your career later on. For example…

• You may need a recommendation from them
• They may be able to introduce you to potential data sources for research
• They may know people that ask them about you
• You may do joint research with some of them in the future

Or, maybe you’ve received a ton of support from your committee members and feel nothing but gratitude for how they’ve guided you. In that case, all the more reason to express your gratitude!

Either way, an academic field is a small world. Maintaining good relationships with members of the field is important for your career. And saying “thank you” is just good manners, after all.

Here’s how to write a thank-you note to dissertation committee members who’ve helped you along the way.

Thank Them in the Acknowledgments Section

It’s important to include a thank you note for your dissertation committee members in the acknowledgments section of your dissertation . It doesn’t have to be very long–one or two sentences is enough. It’s vital to do this because it’s expected, and not doing so may seem like an intentional snub. 

Thank Your Committee Members Personally

It’s also kind to thank your committee members personally as well. Even the person who’s been hardest on you has helped you get to where you are. A personal thank-you often feels more genuine, personal, and real than what can be communicated by written words. Even if it’s as simple as looking them in the eye, shaking their hand, and saying “thank you for everything,” it matters.

Write a Thank You Note for Dissertation Committee Members

Even if you’ve already done everything above, it’s best to write a separate thank you note for your dissertation committee members as well. There are a couple of reasons to send an additional thank you note. First, they may never look at the acknowledgments section of your dissertation. And secondly, it shows that you went just a little above and beyond. 

With handwriting being what it is today, I’d say it’s acceptable to write it on a computer. Print it out, sign it, and deliver it (slide it under their door, put it in their mailbox, mail it to them).

Tips for Writing a Thank You Note for Your Dissertation Committee 

Be specific. Show them that you paid attention by thanking them for the specific roles that they played and the specific ways that they helped you get to the end. Saying something like, “thank you for being on my committee, without you I would have had to have somebody else on my committee,” isn’t going to endear you to them.

Address them properly. Even though you’re technically a doctor now too, still say, “Thank you Dr. ___” Unless they’ve explicitly asked you to call them by their first name, default to calling them “doctor” until they tell you otherwise.

Be genuine. It’s important not to have your letter sound like a form letter. While it should still be professional, it shouldn’t be sanitized of any personal touch. If you have funny memories of your time working with them, it would be appropriate to recount these with a tone of appreciation.

Example Thank You Note for Dissertation Committee 

Dear Dr. ___,

Saying thank you just doesn’t seem to be enough now that you’ve helped me complete this journey. You were an integral part of me being able to make it to the end.

Without the help that you gave me in developing my methodology and the emotional support you gave me, I wouldn’t have made it.

I hope that I can “pay forward” what you’ve done for me by helping other people. I will use your selfless support as a model as I move forward.

Best wishes,

Dear Dr. ____

I’m writing to offer my deepest gratitude for the guidance you provided me as part of my dissertation committee.  From the time I took your History of Education in the Progressive Era course, I knew you would be the one to help me sort out my thinking on my topic.  Your suggestions brought in threads of thought that made my research so much richer, and my dissertation something I can be proud of having written.  You’ve also inspired me with your own body of research and the gift of helping me visualize a similar trajectory for myself.  I feel confident that I can succeed, standing on your shoulders.

I look forward to working with you again in the future, as our research interests will undoubtedly invite future collaboration.  No doubt, we’ll be at the same conferences year after year!  May you continue to inspire and enrich your students.  I will miss being among them!

With Deepest Gratitude, Me

Final Thoughts

Now that you have your degree and are moving into the world of an academic career, you will be met with a host of new challenges. If you’re looking for someone who knows the territory, feel free to take a look at my Academic Career Coaching services and reach out for a free 30-minute consultation .

Steve Tippins

Steve Tippins, PhD, has thrived in academia for over thirty years. He continues to love teaching in addition to coaching recent PhD graduates as well as students writing their dissertations. Learn more about his dissertation coaching and career coaching services. Book a Free Consultation with Steve Tippins

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• Graduate School
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• Great Supervisor Week

Between 2017-2019 G+PS organized Great Supervisor Week in May of each year during which graduate students were encouraged to give kudos to their supervisors through social media and our website.

May 8-14, 2017, was the inaugural #GreatSupervisor week at UBC

May 7-13, 2018, was the second annual #GreatSupervisor week at UBC.

May 6-12, 2019, was the third annual #GreatSupervisor week at UBC.

#GreatSupervisor week started at the University of Calgary in 2014, and we are grateful to them for their inspiration and support in this initiative.

I am very grateful for all the support that you have extended to me during my time here at UBC. I deeply appreciate how you have been continuously encouraging and guiding me in the last two years, and also how you have always been so friendly and supportive of all of my efforts and struggles. Working under your supervision has been very enjoyable and I have learned and grown a lot. Thanks Ben!

I am so grateful to have Dr.Mohamed Bedaiwy as my supervisor. He is like a candle who has lit up my career path, so I can achieve my goals. He is my role model. He appreciates me on my every little progress/achievement. He does the best he can to make learning easier for me from his own experiences as a clinician. This is my last year but I really wish if I could get this wonderful opportunity to thank him every year for all the hard work he does not only for his students but also for his patients. My success is your blessing, Dr.Bedaiwy. I would always be thankful to you.

Mary de Vera has been a great supervisor! She has the talent to motivate her students while providing them with the scientific tools to achieve their goals. Thank you so much, Mary de Vera, for your supervision and dedication!

Thank you, Dr. Lester, for your friendly supervision and your dedication during the last years!

One of the smartest people I've had the privilege to work with, Konrad is also a gem of a person who is always ready to provide whatever support a student seeks/needs. All this embedded in an ever-smiling personality!

Thank you so much, Mohsen Sadatsafavi, for your supervision and dedication in the last years!

Thank you so much, Adam, for your friendly supervision during the last years!!

Mohsen is a fantastic supervisor. He pushes you to succeed and is supportive at those inevitable times when you don't. He has been instrumental in my development as a scientist and has created a wonderful lab environment for developing as a person. I truly have #GreatSupervisor!

Thank you so much, Dr. FitzGerald, for your dedication and friendly supervision during the last years!

My sincere and heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to a wonderful supervisor for providing me with the guidance and counsel I need to succeed in the PhD program. She has been a great mentor in mapping my PhD journey, advising on a research topic, connecting me with the resources I need, being available and responding to my emails and questions. My supervisor is a doyen in my area of research interest and her wealth of experience has been the main driver of my program.

Even before being my supervisor he was an exceptional role model in work ethics and research methods. Most importantly, he was very supportive and enthusiastic about my progress academically and professionally. He made sure that I'm being supported through each step of the way and to regain my self worth and confidence. He is truly a remarkable supervisor.

Kai is a great supervisor who helps me think outside the box and expand my understanding of complex social ecological systems. He has guided me to think critically about my research questions and inspired me via his novel work with IPBES and many interdisciplinary scholars who are also committed to making transformational changes in global ecosystem management. I feel extremely fortunate to be part of his lab and contribute to sharing ideas and creating knowledge and environmental solutions under his guidance.

Dr. MacPhee is a #GreatSupervisor because she is my cheerleader. Dr. MacPhee is a #GreatSupervisor because she motivates me, inspires me, and creates an encouraging environment for me to grow. Dr. MacPhee is a #GreatSupervisor because she is very passionate about empowering the nursing profession through education and leadership to make a difference. #GreatSupervisor #cheerleader #rolemodel #UBCMSNjourney #UBCNursing

Prof. Dreisinger is always kind and supportive to students and the students' future career developments. For Prof. Dreisinger, the graduate students are not the employees to finish the tasks but more like the "life children". He is knowledgeable with abundant engineering experience. However, he is always nice and behaves equally to students without showing the absolute authority. When students have trouble, no matter if it is related to their studies or life, once he knows, he is always there to provide help and support as much as he can in the first time. He always supports, helps and guides the students to be good for the world and to keep innovating in scientific research. From him, it can be clearly seen that the perfect combination of teacher, researcher, supervisor, and wise, kind and humorous elder! It is great luck for me to be one of his students!

Corey Nislow has been a very great supervisor and mentor. From my first day in UBC till now, he has always supported me. He provided an enabling and supportive environment for me to succeed in my PhD study and research. Importantly, he believes in me and answers whenever I needed his attention and/or support. In fact, I never regretted having him as my supervisor. He's the best!

Meghan is great because she is supportive, patient, helpful and understanding. She is available to answer my questions and offer guidance whenever I seek out her mentorship. She has a good sense of humour, is grounded and realistic, and makes me feel like the work I'm doing matters. I appreciate our conversations about academia as a system and what our roles within it are as researchers and educators. She has made me feel like I am on the right path with my choice to pursue a Master's degree. I am very grateful for the insights and critical lens she offers as well as the time she takes to make me feel fully supported. I'm learning a lot from my interactions with her and feel that I am becoming a better academic as a result of working with her. I'm lucky!

I am privileged to be coming to know such an amazing person like Dr. Bonny Norton. She is not only a #GreatSupervisor, but she is also a great human being who is always dedicated to supporting her students in every possible way. I will forever be grateful to her for her incredible support when I lost my most beloved person, my mom. Bonny's belief in me greatly inspired me to move forward and to continue pursuing my dream. She challenges me to reach new heights and supports me whenever I need any guidance. Her scholarly knowledge, inspirational leadership, invaluable experience, and innovative ideas never cease to amaze me. I am truly fortunate to have such a #GreatSupervisor.

I am so grateful to have Dr.Mohamed Bedaiwy as my supervisor. He is like a candle who has lit up my career path so I can achieve my goals. He is my role model. He appreciates me on my every little progress/achievement. He does the best he can to make learning easier for me from his own experiences as a clinician. This is my last year but I really wish if I could get this wonderful opportunity to thank him every year for all the hard work he does not only for his students but also for his patients. My success is your blessing, Dr.Bedaiwy. I would always be thankful to you.

My supervisors are extremely supportive. Natalia is a wonderful supervisor as she has a level of emotional intelligence that I have not seen in most people. Both her and Harry have always put my goals at the forefront and helped me achieve them. Their doors have always been open to me and they have been extremely generous with their time and their advice. I have learned so much from working with them throughout my time in my master's program. It has been an immense pleasure and I look forward to having an opportunity to collaborate with them in the future.

Very knowledgeable in his field of autonomic function and spinal cord injury. Busy in dedicating his time to research and clinical work. In between his time spent presenting at conferences and maintaining his various responsibilities, including as president of the American Spinal Injury Association, he makes time for his students, post-docs, and staff providing various levels of guidance in their pre-clinical and clinical work.

Sinikka is a #GreatSupervisor because she really cares about her students' ideas about their scholarly work. She generously leads the way and also gives a great space for self-discovery and development. Sinikka is a #GreatSupervisor because she has always been available whenever I needed her feedback and support. I am sincerely grateful!

Everyone who has gone through the difficult journey of completing doctoral studies knows how important good supervision and support are. Dr. Susan Cox is not my primary supervisor. She is a member of my supervisory committee but she has inspired and encouraged my research. She has guided me into the fascinating world of qualitative research illuminating my pathway to dissertation and helping me in every stage of it. I will be thankful to Dr. Cox forever!

I am very grateful for all the support that you have extended to me during my time here at UBC. I deeply appreciate how you have been continuously encouraging and guiding me in the last two years, and also how you have always been so friendly and supportive of all of my efforts and struggles. Working under your supervision has been very enjoyable and I have learned and grown a lot. Thanks, Ben!

He has been very supportive through the master's process, as well as helping guide the process of writing the capstone paper. His patience to listen to all my rambling ideas and willingness to give suggestions in developing this paper have been very important through this process. Finally, his encouragement has helped keep me going, even when it has felt like a long and slow endeavor.

Kosta is such a selfless person! He puts so much effort into making sure his students grow and thrive not just as researchers but as individuals. Kudos to you @Kosta! It has been an incredible experience working with you! #GreatSupervisor

Thank you for your expert guidance, encouragement, and support. Thank you for challenging me to think further, work harder and opportunities for growth.

Dr. Rysanek is an exceptional supervisor and a wonderful human being. He is not only my supervisor but also my mentor, friend and role model! He is brilliant, highly knowledgeable, very enthusiastic about his research field and always has creative and cool research ideas. He is supportive and caring and he is always there for his students and willing to help.

He is kind, respectful and patient with his students. He has such a positive attitude and his critiques are always constructive and helpful. He is approachable, friendly and fun to be with. He cares about the wellbeing of his students and always makes his students feel confident.

He absolutely has an amazing inspiring personality! I am grateful and lucky to have Dr. Rysanek as my supervisor and love working with him! He is definitely a #GreatSupervisor!

Jiaying is a dedicated, caring, and open-minded supervisor who sets a high standard for my PhD and guides me to think critically about human psychology, sustainability, and research design. She is generous with her time to discuss and brainstorm ideas with students and actively supports interdisciplinary collaboration. Her enthusiasm about and commitment with her students' research (not to mention her novel and interesting work) make her an exceptional supervisor and continue to inspire me in my PhD journey. I am glad to have such a great supervisor.

It's #GreatSupervisor Week at UBC! Dr. Jean-Paul Collet- a brilliant academic, mentor and above all wonderful human being! Thank you JP for being an encouraging, enthusiastic, supportive, open-minded, thoughtful and insightful supervisor. You are the BEST SUPERVISOR and MENTOR #Grateful #GreatSupervisor

Richard is kind, caring and always available for students. He also provides numerous opportunities for us to develop as scholars. Moreover, he constantly challenges us to think more deeply and to explore different perspectives. I have grown so much under your supervision. Thanks for being a great supervisor, Richard!

She is always listening carefully to what I say, in order to work from what I am creating, and furthering me with her experience and knowledge. She is always so joyful and understanding.

Since coming to UBC this year to pursue my PhD in Educational Studies, Prof. Gleason has become a true mentor, teacher, and role model. She has taken a real interest in my work and expressed genuine concern for my well-being. Her advice has proven incredibly important and she pushes me daily to excel and challenge myself. At the same time, she allows me to have the necessary space to do my work, make mistakes, and learn from them in a safe, supportive atmosphere. I am truly grateful for her constant support.

Michael is a truly inspirational, supportive, and understanding mentor. Thank you for everything you do!

I would like to express my special gratitude to Dr. Leanne Currie for her encouragement, patience, and support. As a supervisor, she is very motivating and helpful which inspired me to give my best efforts. She is my inspiration, motivation, and source of critique. I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation for her immense support, proper guidance, encouragement, and opportunities she had provided me during my first year of the PhD program.

Sabine Ivison is smart, hilarious, insightful, caring, patient, detailed, thoughtful, and super interesting. She's full of stories, mind-blowing ideas, and out-of-this-world analogies. Sabine shows me different ways of looking at problems and how to think multiple steps ahead. She creates a nurturing, supportive, and stimulating environment which helps me believe in myself and focus on learning and improving my skills.

I am privileged to work with Professor Lee Gunderson, an amazing person, researcher, and academic! He has been extremely generous and helpful as supervisor throughout the program. He fully respected as well as supported my scholarly pursuits, which led to SSHRC Fellowship and two Faculty of Education awards. He always promptly responded to and met with me whenever I requested, even on a weekly-basis during his sabbatical. Many thanks, Lee, for being an outstanding advisor!

Dr. Bulkan has gone and above beyond to support me in my research. She's also been supportive in releasing funds for my professional development and providing references for my scholarship/internship applications as well as opportunities to develop essential research skills.

To a great supervisor, Dr. Michelle Stack, a huge "THANK YOU" for being such an amazing prof and such a wonderful person!! Your confidence in me and your kind words of encouragement have been a great source of strength for me. To Dr. Michelle Stack and to my committee members, Dr. Andre Mazawi and Dr. Wendy Carr, many thanks for always steering me in the right direction! I'm extremely fortunate to be learning from three exceptionally brilliant profs! Thank you for your gifts of knowledge and your unwavering support.

My supervisor is brilliant. His patience and humour buoy even the most floundering of minds (fact of which I am empirical proof). A good thing: there are great supervisors aplenty. A magical thing: my supervisor understands me and helps me to understand myself.

I'm grateful for my #GreatSupervisor Andre Mazawi for his persevering commitment and unwavering support during my PhD journey.

Although, not directly as a supervisor, but as the program director, you've been a wonderful mentor to me! #GreatMentor Thank you Dr. Duronio for being encouraging, supportive, open-minded and thoughtful. As I approach the end of my doctoral journey, I am grateful for your support #Grateful

Theresa Rogers is not only a great mentor, she's an unfailingly generous colleague. Over my first two years of doctoral scholarship she has connected me with multiple collaborative and dynamic scholarly communities. I never feel like a lone scholar knowing she's in my corner; she supports and encourages my engagement with others in the field. What a gift!

Jen goes out of her way to introduce me to other faculty members (at UBC and other universities) and has provided many opportunities for me to network and present my work around Canada and the US...this has introduced me to a network of support that I really appreciate and value. She has high expectations that push me to my best work, is supportive and encouraging, and is always in my corner. Thanks Jen!

Professor Pauly is an extraordinary supervisor and person. He has believed in me, guided me and mentored me since I first joined the graduate program. He is there for all his students, ready and willing to help them with any obstacles they encounter. He is exceptionally kind and understands the challenges that graduate students face daily. He has been especially supportive of international graduate students like me, who must deal with the difficulty of being far from their families and homelands. He is respectful and he is encouraging. I continue to learn from him every day, and he never ceases to surprise us (my peers and I) with his immense knowledge of most things. I could not have dreamt of a better supervisor. I will forever be grateful to Dr. Pauly for his mentorship and for his support.

Sara is a great supervisor for so many reasons! She is equally as supportive of my academic and non-academic opportunities, her feedback is actionable and aimed to help me improve, and she gives me advice on teaching, research, and giving presentations. She is present in my journey as a grad student and always takes the time to introduce me to her colleagues. I am very grateful for her positive, kind, and thoughtful presence, and I'm so lucky to have her as my supervisor!

Cesi is such a supportive supervisor. She is very encouraging of me sharing my thesis work in small conferences and other academic spaces, and has helped me so much in developing my work and pushing me to consider further avenues for research. I am grateful for her as my supervisor, and love working with her!

Sandrine always makes herself available to all students. She is sharp, strong and tough, but supportive, positive and kind. She knows students' weaknesses and strengths. She is a super hard worker!!

Cynthia embraces kindness, patience, and positivity in her supervision style, and has a great understanding of the complexities that come into play in a grad student's career. In addition to her expertise and experience, she is immensely supportive. Such a great supervisor!

Dr. Mawani has been a steadfast supporter and a source of great inspiration. It has been her encouragement that has kept me pressing on. Thank you Dr. Mawani!

Dr. Karla Williams, a great supervisor and a super great human being, is one of the most inspiring personalities I ever came across. When I started my PhD. in September 2017, the first few months were very challenging for me. Dr. Williams worked on me and helped me regain my momentum. Working under her supervision is a true blessing I cherish every day.

Bernard is a great supervisor because he always has time for his students. He pushes us to do things on our own but is there when we need him. He understands that we have lives outside of school and is very supportive. He provides opportunities to grow and develop as researchers. Also, I am lucky enough that I get to work with him in the field for my research. Few students get their supervisors in the field. I get mine to hike a mountain and carry my gear every two weeks :)

Siyun is 100% dedicated to the success of her students. She always encourages us to follow our own path and is happy to provide whatever support is needed to accomplish our goals. She is also committed to fostering a cooperative team atmosphere, which makes working in her research group a real pleasure. She is a major driving force behind many of my successes.

Jennifer has been an amazing supervisor and mentor. She truly exemplifies what it means to be a woman in academia and reach a work-life/family balance. I feel honored to have been her first PhD student and hope I can serve as an example like her in the future.

I would not have had the chance to become a scholar like me today without the support from my #GreatSupervisor, Dr. Eskelson. She always encourages me to thrive for what I am passionate about, what I need to learn to equip myself with strong technical as well as interpersonal skills. 'Thank you' is not enough to express my appreciation for all of her great support during my program at UBC.

Nina is a #GreatSupervisor because of how dedicated she is both to her students and to research. She is one of the most supportive and caring mentors I have worked with and makes sure her students have all the support they need in order to succeed and do well in their studies and in life. Nina is also a leader in her field of research and does a wonderful job guiding and instructing her students in how best to do their own research. It is inspiring to work with Nina and I feel very grateful to have her as my supervisor.

Crystal has always been extremely supportive and encouraging as a supervisor. She is very easy to talk to and I always feel comfortable to go to her with questions. I know she has my best interest in mind and genuinely cares about my success as a grad student. She is definitely a great supervisor!!!

There are many great things about my supervisors and the program that they have created. Their research program is admirable and it makes me happy and proud to be part of it. Each and every student in my program is up to solving big problems in order to improve the lives of animals and it takes great supervisors to create and then lead such a program. In addition, the program is perfectly organized. There is no competition between the students, there is always help available if needed and more importantly, it feels like a family. Though my supervisors are extremely busy, but, they still make sure that they give enough support and advice to their students in order to succeed. Regardless of it being challenging, I enjoy every day of my life in my program and I feel like I have everything I need to grow and succeed.  

I am grateful for Dr. Yong endless support. Big thanks and much appreciation. He always makes time in his busy schedule for his students.

My supervisor Dr. Amanda Giang is a #GreatSupervisor for so many reasons! She supports our mental health and well-being, always making sure that our wellness is a priority. She is inclusive and open to new ideas. She gives amazing constructive feedback that improves our work. She is always there to cheer us on when we succeed. She encourages us to make connections that will further our goals. She is approachable and friendly. I feel lucky to have her as my supervisor. 

Continuous support and encouragement. 

Candace listens and supports me in a way that respects my role as a husband, father, and member of my First Nation as well as a scholar. 

I also really appreciate her understanding as an Indigenous scholar. 

Professor Pinar inspires you both by his scholarly knowledge and by his humble attitude towards. His perceptive personality gives you a supportive and caring space to know yourself. He provides a valuable opportunity to take your time during your learning experience. I am proud of my doctoral experience at UBC mainly because of his guidelines, patience, and dedication to my learning experience. He is extraordinary!

For always supporting, encouraging, stretching, and inspiring! 

Tim Kieffer is exactly the #GreatSupervisor you hope to have. Dr. Kieffer never fails to challenge you to do better and never ceases to support you through adversity. Thank you for making the Kieffer Lab a place of creativity, productivity, and positivity. It is a privilege to recognize Tim as my mentor and I will proudly do so for my entire career ahead.

In our research group, Dr. Lester sparks innovative conversations between students from a wide range of backgrounds. From computer science students contributing to the development of a mobile health technology to public health researchers studying the implementation of this tech globally, he has a knack for translating information that serves a spectrum of interests. It really helps to bring together students who might otherwise work in silos. I've really appreciated his can-do attitude and the positive perspective he has when tackling complex problems in low-resource settings. He always makes his students feel capable and confident in their abilities and reminds us of the importance our research has in a broader context. As a student from a remote and isolated community, I value that Dr. Lester, his family, and the research group offer a sense of community I need to thrive. Thank you, Dr. Lester, for making anyone and everyone feel welcome in your lab. And I am so grateful for the accommodation of my dog as well; this helped me acclimatize to the city and make transitioning back into post-secondary an easier choice. Thank you! 

I'm so thankful for Dr. Mitchell-Foster, and all she does to support my research. She is approachable, very knowledgable and patient in helping me learn the ins and outs of academia. The way she manages her students, being a baby-saving obgyn and her adorable family is inspirational. I'm so grateful to have such a strong female role model in my life! Thanks for all you do!

Bonny Norton is not only a #GreatSupervisor, she is the #BestSupervisor. Bonny is not only my supervisor, she is a mentor, friend and role model. She cares deeply about her students and is ALWAYS willing to take the time whether it's help with a school-related task, frustration, advice or personal issues. Bonny has made me believe I am capable of more than I knew was possible; she sets the bar high and is available to help every step of the way. Bonny's brilliance is matched only by her warm and caring heart. I feel so lucky and grateful that I have the privilege of working with Bonny for she is without a doubt a #GreatSupervisor.

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10 Ways to Impress a PhD Supervisor

• By Eduardo D. S.
• August 1, 2020

So you want to find out how to impress a PhD supervisor? Maybe you’re about to contact them about a potential project, perhaps you already have a meeting scheduled with them, or maybe you’re already one of their PhD students but you want to leave a lasting impression. Whatever your reasons, learning the correct way to impress a PhD supervisor can do wonders for building a great relationship and increasing your chances of success not only in your project but also in opening doors for your future career development.

Based on my own experiences, I’m going to share 10 of the best ways to impress a supervisor – 5 for before they agree to take you on, and 5 for when you become one of their PhD students.

5 Ways to Impress a PhD Supervisor Before They Agree to Supervise You

1. communicate clearly.

PhD supervisors are busy people, they receive countless emails every day from panicked students, colleagues chasing up peer-reviews, and potential PhD candidates like yourself. When you first contact a potential supervisor, stick to sending them a brief email. Note the brief there. Specify who you are, your educational background, that you are interested in their project, why you are interested in their project, and include a copy of your resume.

You can find a good breakdown of how to structure your first email here – How to Email a Potential PhD Supervisor . Whichever approach you take, the key is to keep it concise.

2. Be Knowledgeable About Your Field

All supervisors want a research student who’s knowledgeable and well-read in their field, as they tend to produce higher-quality work and encounter fewer problems. Although no one expects you to be an expert, make sure you have at least read three of the most popular journal publications in your chosen research area.

3. Research Them

Looking up the supervisor will give you an insight into their research interests, what topics they’re currently researching, and whether they’ve made any notable contributions, be it a publication, a book or a talk at a leading conference. Your goal isn’t to flatter them, but to be able to clearly explain how your project applies to them and why you would like them to be your supervisor. For example, you might pick up on the fact that the supervisor has recently published several papers or attended a number of conferences on a particular subject. Proposing a project closely linked to this area is likely to attract their attention more than a project in a subject which they haven’t published on for several years.

4. Have a Long-Term Plan

Know what you want to research, why you want to research it, and what you want to do after having completed your research.

A PhD is an enormous commitment – it can take up to 8 years, be financially challenging and mentally exhausting. A supervisor will want to reassure themselves that you genuinely believe a PhD is for you, as having a student struggle the entire way through, or worse, drop out altogether, isn’t good for any involved. Spend some time reading up on the common challenges you can expect as a PhD student and determining what your career goals are. Being able to demonstrate an awareness for both of these will help convince the supervisor that your consideration for doing a PhD is a rational one.

5. Have a Project Plan

If you have the opportunity to discuss a project in more detail with a supervisor, keep in mind that not all first interactions will be simple introductory meetings.

Some supervisors like to jump straight in and discuss your proposed project, your methodology, how you plan to collect data, what kinds of challenges you think you may encounter, etc. Answering these questions in detail will show you’re serious about the project. You don’t necessarily need to have all the right answers here but it’s more about showing that you’ve thought about these aspects and do so from a logical standpoint. In contrast, not having well-thought-out answers will give a poor impression of your level of commitment and/or ability.

If you’ve been asked to submit a research proposal as part of your application, you can almost guarantee a large part of your meeting is going to focus on the technical aspects of the project.

5 Ways to Impress a PhD Supervisor After They Agree to Supervise You

It’s natural to want to impress your supervisor, but remember, if they’ve already agreed to supervise you, they’re already impressed with your academic background and research potential. In truth, most supervisors are never more impressed with their students than on the day they receive their doctorate, with all the years of independent research, publications, and hard word work paying off.

If you still want to take a few extra steps to impress your supervisor, here are 5 things you can do during your PhD studies that will get noticed:

6. Be Proactive

Plan your work, commit to your agreed schedule, and fulfil all your obligations. Nothing makes a supervisor happier than an active student taking full responsibility for his or her project. Being proactive assures your supervisor that your project will advance in the right direction, and when you do need support, it’s for genuine issues that warrant their time.

Being a talented researcher isn’t only about being able to conduct research, but also about being able to do so independently. Showing them that you’re capable of this won’t only keep them looking forward to their next meeting, but it will also give them a high level of confidence in your long-term potential.

7. Document, document, document

It happens occasionally – you get a little complacent, or you’re unusually tired that day – and you don’t label your samples or record your results with a high level of care. No matter the excuse, that’s poor practice and will make it harder for yourself when writing up your thesis, or for your supervisor when trying to discuss your results with them.

One of the simplest ways to impress your supervisor (or any fellow researcher for that matter) is to document everything clearly and systematically. This can range from creating a detailed spreadsheet to keeping a frequently updated LATEX file .

Regardless of how you document your work, stick to a single system and make it so detailed that anyone can pick up and continue your research without having to ask for clarification.

8. Network and Promote Your Research

For creating opportunities in the world of research, nothing is more influential than your reputation. Networking with other researchers within and outside of your university and promoting your work through conferences, events and journal publications improves not only your reputation but also that of your supervisors as a likely co-author. This will help them increase the reach of their work, secure new research grants and be considered for future collaborations.

However, it should be stressed that you mustn’t overstep your bounds – especially when it comes to unfinished work or areas of new potential research. Sharing something your supervisor hasn’t yet wanted to make public is the quickest way to go from impressing to annoying them.

9. Help Them

Supervisors are busy individuals, with a schedule full of lectures, lab sessions, department meetings, plus their own research.

You can earn the gratitude of your supervisor by helping them with some of their tasks, such as offering to host a tutorial on their behalf or setting up the lab for their next demonstration. You can also extend your help to new PhD students who join your research group by acting as a mentor and guiding them through the early challenges of doctoral studies, such as explaining how to order equipment or who to talk to for certain lab requirements.

Supervisors appreciate this type of action as it creates a friendly and collaborative environment for the research group for which they are ultimately responsible for.

10. Clean up After Yourself

You shouldn’t need to be told about this, but it’s surprising how many research students fail to clean up after themselves after having completed laboratory work. This not only goes against laboratory policy , but it gives a poor impression of your research group, which is especially important when you consider the fact you are likely sharing the facilities with staff members who are colleagues of your supervisor.

Cleaning up after yourself shows you respect your colleagues and your workplace and suggests that you have a high personal standard which is always commendable in the eyes of a supervisor. Besides, it’s not that difficult to discard your samples, wipe down your surfaces and record all perishable items that need to be refilled at the end of each day.

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So there you have it, 10 ways to build a good working relationship with your supervisor.

In the same way that a supervisor takes you on as a student, you’re also taking them on as a supervisor, so the relationship must work both ways for it to be successful. I strongly encourage you, in your first meetings with a potential supervisor, to get a sense of whether your personalities are complementary or whether you think there’s a clash. Try to find out what kind of character your supervisor has before joining their research group (e.g. whether they’re a hands-on supervisor or whether they’re a laid back one); if you do this right, most of my tips will fall into place naturally without you having to try.

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Daniel is a third year PhD student at the University of York. His research is based around self-play training in multiagent systems; training AIs on a game such that they improve overtime.

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• Condolences & What To Say

How to Write a Great Thank You Letter to a Professor

Updated 12/28/2023

Published 05/11/2020

Kate Wight, BA in English

Contributing writer

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

A good teacher will teach you the information you need to learn to pass a class but a great teacher will teach you things that will enrich your life in the long run. When someone goes above and beyond for you, it’s important to acknowledge it and express your gratitude. 

Cards and Stationery to Pair with Your Message

• Beyond Grateful Simple Thank You Cards ($14.49)
• Thank You for Helping Me Grow Card ($5.99)
• Compass Thank You Card for Professor ($6.49)
• Personalized Monogrammed Stationery ($21.95)
• Greenery Decorative Printer Paper and Stationery ($10.99)

Jump ahead to these sections:

Steps for writing the best thank you note for your professor, sample thank you letters to your professor.

What’s the best way to say, “ thank you for your support ” to a professor you enjoyed? Many professors really appreciate a heartfelt thank you letter. This kind of letter is generally longer and more formal than a quick email. 

Here, we break down how to write a great thank you letter to a professor step-by-step. We’ve also included some samples for reference. 

Follow these steps and produce an impressive thank you note to say "thank you, Professor":

• Start and end with appropriate salutations
• Open by saying thank you
• Include a quote
• Give more specific details
• Be positive
• Keep it short and sweet
• Say thank you again

Step 1: Go postal

If you’ve grown up in the modern era, you may do most of your communication digitally. Texts and emails are quick and effective ways to communicate. But there’s something special about sending correspondence through the mail. It feels more personal and intimate.

Take a little extra time to send a letter to your teacher or professor. You can mail it directly to the school to your professor’s attention or drop it off at the office. That personal touch will make your letter feel extra special. You can still type your letter if your handwriting isn’t the best.

Step 2: Start and end with appropriate salutations

When writing a formal letter, it’s important to address the recipient by his or her title. You can start it with something like, “Dear Professor Smith” or “Dear Dr. Jones.” If you’re unsure of your professor’s title, you can always check the college or university website.

When you close your letter, be sure to choose an appropriate sendoff as well. “Sincerely” is always a classic signoff before you sign your name. You can also use something like “ with gratitude ” in conclusion.   

Step 3: Open by saying thank you

When writing any kind of formal letter, it’s best to open with the general purpose of your letter. It sets up the expectation for what the rest of the correspondence will be about. 

Step 4: Include a quote 

For extra panache, you can open your letter with a quote about gratitude. Check out our list of thank you quotes for inspiration. 

Step 5: Give more specific details

In your next paragraph, you’ll want to expand on the reasons behind your thank you. Here is where you’ll give some more specific details about why you’re thanking your professor.

You could thank her for always being available to help you revise papers. You could thank your professor for being understanding when you had a personal crisis that interfered with schoolwork. You could thank her for writing you a reference letter. Just break down each idea into its own brief paragraph. 

Teachers and professors don’t always get specific feedback from students. They may get generic feedback in an end-of-year survey. But they will appreciate knowing what specifically they’ve done to make an impact on you. This section is really the heart and soul of your thank you letter. 

Step 6: Be positive

A thank you letter should be uplifting. You may be thanking your professor for helping you through some hard times.

Don’t dwell too much on the details of those difficulties. Instead, focus on the gratitude aspect of your letter. 

Step 7: Be sincere

You may feel like a formal letter has to be devoid of personality. That’s not always the case, though. A letter should show elements of your personality and character.

Y ou can best achieve this by being sincere in your appreciation.

Step 8: Keep it short and sweet

Even if you’re overflowing with gratitude for your professor, you don’t have to go overboard. If your letter is too lengthy, your gratitude may actually be buried.

They say brevity is the soul of wit. But brevity is important in many other ways, too. 

Step 9: Say thank you again

If you had to write a term paper for your professor’s class, he likely taught you to wrap up the paper by restating your thesis. The same thing applies to a formal letter. Reiterate the reason you’re writing the letter at its conclusion. 

Here are some examples of what a thank you letter might look like for a few different occasions. 

Thanking your professor for a recommendation

Dear Professor Smith,

I just wanted to send a quick note to thank you for writing me a letter of recommendation. Truthfully, I had been on the fence about applying to grad school. When you asked what my plans for the future were and offered to write me a recommendation, it gave me the push I needed.

Over the past four years, I’ve learned so much from your classes. But the most important thing I’ve appreciated is your belief in me. Because you set such high expectations for me, I tried to raise my academic level to meet them. I’m a better researcher and writer because of you.

Again, thank you for seeing something in me and encouraging me to be better. Thanks for believing in me enough to write me a letter of recommendation. Your support means more to me than I can express.

Thanking your professor for teaching you

Dear Dr. Jones, 

I wanted to take a moment to thank you for teaching me this semester. I’ve never been moved to write a thank you note to a teacher before. But that’s probably because I’ve never had an instructor like you. 

First, I want to thank you for keeping the class reading list so affordable. For so many of my classes, the reading lists cost hundreds of dollars. You did a great job keeping it affordable for students working their way through school like me. 

Second, I want to commend you for your patience with all students. You were so understanding about the fact that people have real-life issues that can interfere with schooling. I think it’s especially great that you allowed a student to come into a lecture with her child when her babysitter was sick. I know a lot of other professors wouldn’t have been so understanding. I also appreciate that you have a flexible attendance policy for students with chronic illnesses.

Finally, I want to thank you for your teaching style. You really seem engaged with the material you’re teaching, and that makes it more exciting for students. I also appreciated the supplemental videos and notes you provided. It added more to my understanding of your course.  

Your understanding and compassion for all students are really admirable qualities. Thank you for making this semester so transformative.

With gratitude,

Matt Markson

Thanking a professor for working with you

Dear Professor Buckley,

I wanted to reach out and thank you for all the support you showed me last semester.

As you know, I had many health issues as well as personal dramas in my life last year. But when I approached you about dropping your class, you were determined to help me figure things out so I could graduate on time. Not a lot of professors would have recorded their own lectures so a student could attend class remotely. You went above and beyond for me.

I also appreciate you letting me have extended deadlines for my papers. Being able to get things in on a delayed schedule made a huge difference for me.

Henry Adams said, “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” Please know that your influence on my life will affect me until the end of time. I will forever be thankful for your patience and kindness.

All the best,

Mary Lipton 

Thank Your Professor or Teacher with a Letter 

Teachers and professors can have a profound impact on our lives. When they do, it’s important to communicate what that means to you. Professors don’t gravitate toward wealth or prestige. At their core, they really want to make a difference in people’s lives.

Take some time to type or handwrite a letter to thank your professor for everything. Your professor will appreciate it more than you could know.  

Post-loss tip: If you are the executor for a deceased loved one, the emotional and technical aspects of handling their unfinished business can be overwhelming without a way to organize your process. We have a post-loss checklist  that will help you ensure that your loved one's family, estate, and other affairs are taken care of.

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10 Best Gift Ideas for PhD Research Supervisor on Completion of Your PhD

Completing a PhD is a significant accomplishment that requires years of hard work, dedication, and support. Along the way, your supervisor plays a crucial role in guiding and mentoring you, providing feedback and advice, and helping you navigate the challenges of research and academia.

When it’s time to graduate, it’s only natural to want to show your appreciation and gratitude to your supervisor for their contributions to your success. One way to do so is by giving a thoughtful and meaningful gift that reflects your appreciation and acknowledges the significance of the achievement.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore a wide range of thoughtful and unique gift ideas that are sure to make your supervisor feel valued and appreciated. From personalized stationery to a membership to a prestigious society, we’ve got you covered with practical suggestions and expert tips. So, whether you’re a student seeking inspiration or a colleague looking to express your thanks, read on for our top recommendations on the best gifts for research supervisors.

I. Personalized Gifts: A Unique Way to Show Appreciation to PhD supervisor

Ii. books: a great way to show appreciation to phd supervisor, iii. gift cards: flexibility and convenience for phd supervisor, iv. artwork: a unique and impactful gift for your phd supervisor.

• V. Handwritten "Thank You": A Heartfelt Way to Express Gratitude to PhD supervisor

VI. Personalized Stationery: A Practical and Thoughtful Gift for your PhD Supervisor

Vii. bottle of wine: a classic way to show appreciation to your phd supervisor, viii. jewellery: an elegant way to show appreciation to phd supervisor, ix. digital devices: a gift that can enhance productivity of research supervisor, x. membership to a prestigious society: one beneficial gift for a research supervisor.

• Before you Close This Post....
• Should I consider the supervisor's preferences or lifestyle when selecting a gift?

Are there any potential pitfalls or considerations to avoid when giving a gift to a supervisor?

Are there any non-material gifts or gestures that are appreciated by supervisors, is it appropriate to give a gift at the time of thesis defense or after the completion of all phd requirements, is it common to give gifts to supervisors after completing a phd, introduction.

Completing a PhD is a major accomplishment that requires dedication, hard work, and support from many people. Among these supporters is your PhD supervisor, who has likely played a pivotal role in guiding and mentoring you throughout your academic journey.

As you approach the end of your PhD program, it’s important to take the time to express your gratitude and show your appreciation for your supervisor’s contributions.

In this post, we will be sharing some thoughtful gift ideas that you can consider giving to your PhD supervisor to express your thanks.

Your PhD supervisor has likely provided you with personalized guidance throughout your academic journey, so why not return the favour with a personalized gift? Personalized gifts are a thoughtful and unique way to show your appreciation for your supervisor’s help and support.

These gifts demonstrate that you have taken the time and effort to create something special and meaningful just for them. Additionally, personalized gifts can serve as a lasting reminder of the mentor-mentee relationship that you have built during your PhD program.

Here are some examples of personalized gifts that you could consider giving to your supervisor:

• Customized Pens: A pen is a practical and useful gift that your supervisor can use daily. Consider a high-quality pen with their name or initials engraved on it.
• Personalized Mugs: A mug is a classic and versatile gift that can be customized in various ways. Consider a mug with a personalized message or photo printed on it.
• Photo Frames: A photo frame with a memorable photo of you and your supervisor can be a sentimental and meaningful gift. Choose a photo that captures a special moment or memory from your PhD program.
• Engraved Plaque: An engraved plaque with a personal message of appreciation can be a meaningful and long-lasting gift. Consider having a plaque made with your supervisor’s name and a heartfelt message thanking them for their guidance and support.
• Personalized Tote Bag : A personalized tote bag with your supervisor’s name or initials can be a stylish and practical gift. Consider a high-quality tote bag that your supervisor can use to carry their academic materials or other personal items.

By choosing a personalized gift, you can demonstrate your gratitude in a unique and meaningful way. Your supervisor will appreciate the thoughtfulness and effort that went into creating a gift that is truly one-of-a-kind.

Books are a great way to show appreciation to your PhD supervisor. Particularly if you choose a book that is related to the field of their expertise, it can demonstrate that you value the knowledge they have imparted on you throughout your studies. Additionally, books are a thoughtful and lasting gift that can be revisited over time and continue to provide value.

By choosing a book that aligns with your supervisor’s field of expertise, you can demonstrate that you value their knowledge and contributions to the field. Additionally, reading the book yourself and discussing it with your supervisor can be a great way to continue your intellectual growth and maintain your relationship beyond the completion of your PhD.

If you’re not quite sure what to get your PhD supervisor, consider a gift card. Gift cards offer flexibility and convenience, allowing your supervisor to choose a gift that is tailored to their interests and preferences. Additionally, gift cards can be a great way to show your appreciation without worrying about choosing the “perfect” gift.

Here are some suggestions for different types of gift cards that may be appropriate:

• Restaurant Gift Card : A gift card to a local restaurant or cafe can be a great way to treat your supervisor to a nice meal or coffee break. Consider a restaurant that your supervisor has mentioned enjoying in the past or a new restaurant that they may be interested in trying.
• Spa Gift Card : After the stress and hard work of completing a PhD, a spa gift card can be a great way for your supervisor to relax and unwind. Consider a spa that offers massage, facials, or other services that your supervisor may enjoy.
• Online Store Gift Card : An online store gift card can be a great option if you’re not quite sure what your supervisor would like. Consider a store that offers a wide range of products, such as Amazon or Etsy, to give your supervisor the flexibility to choose a gift that suits their interests.
• Bookstore Gift Card: If your supervisor is an avid reader, consider a gift card to a local bookstore. This allows them to choose a book that aligns with their interests and preferences.
• Experience Gift Card: Consider a gift card for a unique experience, such as a cooking class, wine tasting, or hot air balloon ride. This allows your supervisor to create a lasting memory and enjoy a new experience.

By choosing a gift card, you can give your supervisor the flexibility to choose a gift that suits their preferences and interests. This allows them to enjoy a gift that they truly value and appreciate.

Artwork can be a unique and impactful gift for your PhD supervisor, as it can serve as a visual reminder of your appreciation for years to come. When choosing artwork, consider the supervisor’s interests and tastes, as well as the decor of their home or office.

Here are some suggestions for choosing artwork that your supervisor may appreciate:

• Commission a Local Artist: Commissioning a local artist to create a custom piece of artwork can be a meaningful and personal gift. Consider choosing an artist whose style aligns with your supervisor’s tastes, and work with them to create a piece that reflects your appreciation and gratitude.
• Choose a Relevant Piece: If your supervisor has a particular area of expertise or interest, consider choosing artwork that reflects that. For example, if your supervisor is an expert in environmental science, consider a landscape painting or nature-inspired piece.
• Consider the Decor: When choosing artwork, consider the decor of your supervisor’s home or office. Choose a piece that will complement their existing decor and be a standout feature in the room.
• Think Outside the Box: Artwork doesn’t have to be limited to paintings or drawings. Consider unique or unconventional pieces, such as a sculpture or a mixed media piece, to add a unique touch to your gift.

By giving artwork as a gift, you can provide your supervisor with a meaningful and lasting reminder of your appreciation. Consider commissioning a local artist or choosing a piece that aligns with their interests and decor to make the gift even more special.

V. Handwritten “Thank You”: A Heartfelt Way to Express Gratitude to PhD supervisor

Sometimes the simplest gestures can be the most meaningful. A handwritten thank you note can be a heartfelt way to express your gratitude and appreciation for your PhD supervisor’s guidance and support throughout your academic journey. Here are some tips for writing a thoughtful note:

• Be Specific: Include specific examples of how your supervisor has helped you, such as their guidance on a particular project or their mentorship throughout your studies.
• Keep it Personal: Write the note in your own voice and use personal anecdotes to make it more meaningful.
• Express Gratitude: Make sure to express your gratitude and appreciation for your supervisor’s contributions to your success.
• Consider Including a Gift: To make the note even more special, consider including a small gift, such as a gift card or a box of chocolates.

By taking the time to write a handwritten thank you note, you can show your supervisor how much you truly value and appreciate their support. Adding a small gift can make the gesture even more special and memorable.

Personalized stationery can be a practical and thoughtful gift for your PhD supervisor, as it not only shows your appreciation but can also be useful in their professional life. Personalized stationery sets can be customized with the supervisor’s name, initials, or even their university logo, making it a unique and personalized gift.

When considering personalized stationery as a gift for your supervisor, it’s important to choose high-quality materials and designs that reflect their professional image. Here are some examples of personalized stationery sets that you could consider:

• Personalized Notepads : Notepads with your supervisor’s name or initials can be a useful and practical gift that they can use in their daily work.
• Personalized Pens : Engraved pens can be a stylish and functional gift that your supervisor can use when signing important documents or conducting meetings.
• Personalized Letterhead : Customized letterhead with your supervisor’s name and university logo can be a great way to help them make a professional impression in their correspondence.
• Personalized Business Cards : Business cards with your supervisor’s name, title, and contact information can be a valuable tool in their professional life.

By giving your supervisor personalized stationery, you can provide them with a practical and useful gift that reflects their professional image. Consider customizing the stationery with their name, initials, or university logo to make it even more special.

A good bottle of wine or whiskey can be a classic and sophisticated way to show appreciation to your PhD supervisor. It can also be a great way to celebrate the completion of a PhD or other special occasions.

When choosing a bottle of wine or whiskey as a gift, it’s important to consider the supervisor’s preferences and tastes. Here are some tips for selecting an appropriate bottle:

• Research the supervisor’s taste preferences: Try to find out if the supervisor has a preference for a certain type of wine or whiskey. You can also consider their taste preferences for other drinks, such as beer or cocktails, to help guide your decision.
• Consider the occasion: If you’re giving the gift to celebrate a special occasion, such as the completion of a PhD, you may want to choose a higher-end bottle to mark the significance of the event.
• Choose a high-quality bottle: Whether you opt for a bottle of wine or whiskey, it’s important to choose a high-quality brand that reflects the supervisor’s professional image.
• Presentation matters: Make sure the bottle is presented in an appropriate manner, such as in a gift bag or box, and include a note expressing your gratitude and congratulations.

Some examples of popular and high-quality bottles of wine or whiskey you could consider include:

• Chateau Mouton Rothschild: A renowned Bordeaux wine that is often considered a collector’s item and a symbol of sophistication.
• The Macallan: A well-regarded single malt Scotch whiskey that is known for its high quality and complexity.

By giving a good bottle of wine or whiskey as a gift, you can offer your supervisor a sophisticated and thoughtful token of appreciation. Remember to consider the occasion and the supervisor’s preferences when selecting the perfect bottle.

Jewellery is a timeless and elegant way to show appreciation and recognition for the hard work and dedication of your PhD supervisor. Gold, silver, and platinum are particularly significant metals that can add meaning and symbolism to your gift.

When choosing a piece of jewelry for your supervisor, it’s important to consider their taste and style. Here are some examples of different types of jewelry that may be appropriate:

• A watch : A classic and practical gift, a watch can symbolize the importance of time and the value of the supervisor’s contribution to your education and career.
• A necklace : A beautiful and feminine gift, a necklace can represent the supervisor’s supportive and nurturing role in your academic journey.
• Cufflinks : A sophisticated and professional gift, cufflinks can symbolize the supervisor’s guidance and leadership in your academic and professional pursuits.

Each metal also has its own symbolism and meaning:

• Gold: Gold is often associated with success, achievement, and excellence. Giving a piece of gold jewelry can symbolize the supervisor’s invaluable contributions to your academic and professional success.
• Silver: Silver is often associated with appreciation, gratitude, and generosity. Giving a piece of silver jewelry can represent your deep appreciation for the supervisor’s mentorship and support.
• Platinum: Platinum is often associated with prestige, exclusivity, and sophistication. Giving a piece of platinum jewelry can symbolize the supervisor’s exceptional knowledge and expertise in their field.

Some examples of high-quality and meaningful gold, silver, or platinum jewelry you could consider include:

• A gold watch from Rolex : A classic and iconic piece of jewelry that can symbolize the supervisor’s invaluable contributions to your academic and professional journey.
• A silver necklace from Tiffany & Co. : A beautiful and timeless piece of jewelry that can represent your deep appreciation for the supervisor’s guidance and support.
• Platinum cufflinks from Cartier : A sophisticated and elegant piece of jewelry that can symbolize the supervisor’s exceptional knowledge and expertise in their field.

By giving a piece of gold, silver, or platinum jewelry, you can offer your supervisor a meaningful and lasting token of appreciation that will be treasured for years to come. Remember to consider the symbolism and meaning of each metal when selecting the perfect piece of jewellery for your supervisor.

Research supervisors often rely on technology to manage their workloads efficiently. Consider gifting them a digital device that can enhance their productivity and make their life easier.

Some popular digital devices that make great gifts for research supervisors include tablets , e-readers , and smartwatches . For instance, a tablet can help supervisors easily manage and review research papers, while an e-reader can provide a more convenient way to read academic journals and books. A smartwatch can also be a useful tool for keeping track of time, setting reminders, and managing notifications while working.

When choosing a digital device as a gift for your research supervisor, consider their preferences and the specific needs of their work. Make sure to choose a device that is compatible with their existing technology and software. Additionally, consider purchasing a protective case or screen protector to help keep the device safe and secure.

Here are some examples of popular digital devices from Apple :

• iPad (tablet)
• iPad Mini (tablet)
• iPad Pro (tablet)
• Apple Watch (smartwatch)
• MacBook Air (laptop)

These devices offer a wide range of features and functionalities that can help research supervisors manage their workload efficiently and effectively.

Overall, gifting a digital device can be a practical and thoughtful way to show your appreciation for your research supervisor’s hard work and dedication.

One thoughtful and beneficial gift for a research supervisor is membership in a prestigious society. Joining such societies often means access to the latest research, networking opportunities, and chances for publication and collaboration. It can also help to build the supervisor’s professional reputation and credentials.

For instance, IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) is a professional association that serves technical professionals in a range of fields. An IEEE membership offers access to IEEE Xplore Digital Library, which contains articles, papers, and conference proceedings, as well as IEEE Spectrum magazine, industry standards, and many other resources.

Likewise, the American Chemical Society (ACS) is a society for chemists and related professionals, offering a wide range of resources, including access to scientific journals and networking opportunities. Similarly, the American Physical Society (APS) is a society for physicists, and offers access to Physical Review journals and other resources.

When choosing a society to gift, it is important to consider the supervisor’s interests and goals. You may also want to check if they are already a member of any societies, to avoid duplication. A membership to a prestigious society is a valuable and long-lasting gift that can support the supervisor’s future research and professional development, and show your appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

Before you Close This Post….

You might have completed your PhD and celebrating your success. In the meantime, you may be in search of better career opportunities with PhD Degree in your hand. You can visit my blog post on Exciting Career Opportunities for PhD Researchers and Research Scholars , which will guide you to the bright career opportunities for PhD graduates.

Choosing a gift for your PhD supervisor is an excellent opportunity to express your gratitude and appreciation for their invaluable support and guidance.

Whether you opt for a personalized gift, a book in their field of expertise, a gift card to their favourite restaurant or store, a piece of artwork, personalized stationery, a bottle of wine or whiskey, a piece of gold, silver, or platinum jewellery or a digital device, the key is to choose something that speaks to their personality and interests.

By showing that you’ve put thought and effort into selecting the gift, you’ll make the gesture all the more meaningful and memorable. Remember, the gift is just one way to say thank you; ultimately, it’s the sentiment behind it that matters most.

So, take some time to reflect on all that your supervisor has done for you and choose a gift that truly reflects your appreciation and gratitude.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should i consider the supervisor’s preferences or lifestyle when selecting a gift.

Yes, considering your supervisor’s preferences and lifestyle can help you choose a gift that they will genuinely appreciate and enjoy. Personalizing the gift shows thoughtfulness and consideration.

It’s essential to consider your supervisor’s preferences and any cultural or institutional policies regarding gift-giving. Avoid gifts that may be perceived as too personal or extravagant, as they could make your supervisor uncomfortable.

Yes, non-material gifts or gestures such as a heartfelt thank-you speech, organizing a small gathering to celebrate their accomplishments, or writing a tribute in a publication can be deeply meaningful to supervisors.

Both times are appropriate for giving a gift. Some students choose to present a gift at the thesis defense as a gesture of appreciation, while others may wait until all PhD requirements are completed.

Yes, it’s a common practice in many academic cultures to express gratitude to supervisors upon completing a PhD. However, it’s not mandatory, and some students may choose alternative ways to show appreciation.

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Frequently asked questions

Do i have to thank my supervisor.

Yes, it’s important to thank your supervisor(s) in the acknowledgements section of your thesis or dissertation .

Even if you feel your supervisor did not contribute greatly to the final product, you must acknowledge them, if only for a very brief thank you. If you do not include your supervisor, it may be seen as a snub.

Frequently asked questions: Dissertation

Dissertation word counts vary widely across different fields, institutions, and levels of education:

• An undergraduate dissertation is typically 8,000–15,000 words
• A master’s dissertation is typically 12,000–50,000 words
• A PhD thesis is typically book-length: 70,000–100,000 words

However, none of these are strict guidelines – your word count may be lower or higher than the numbers stated here. Always check the guidelines provided by your university to determine how long your own dissertation should be.

A dissertation prospectus or proposal describes what or who you plan to research for your dissertation. It delves into why, when, where, and how you will do your research, as well as helps you choose a type of research to pursue. You should also determine whether you plan to pursue qualitative or quantitative methods and what your research design will look like.

It should outline all of the decisions you have taken about your project, from your dissertation topic to your hypotheses and research objectives , ready to be approved by your supervisor or committee.

Note that some departments require a defense component, where you present your prospectus to your committee orally.

A thesis is typically written by students finishing up a bachelor’s or Master’s degree. Some educational institutions, particularly in the liberal arts, have mandatory theses, but they are often not mandatory to graduate from bachelor’s degrees. It is more common for a thesis to be a graduation requirement from a Master’s degree.

Even if not mandatory, you may want to consider writing a thesis if you:

• Plan to attend graduate school soon
• Have a particular topic you’d like to study more in-depth
• Are considering a career in research
• Would like a capstone experience to tie up your academic experience

The conclusion of your thesis or dissertation should include the following:

• A restatement of your research question
• A summary of your key arguments and/or results
• A short discussion of the implications of your research

The conclusion of your thesis or dissertation shouldn’t take up more than 5–7% of your overall word count.

For a stronger dissertation conclusion , avoid including:

• Important evidence or analysis that wasn’t mentioned in the discussion section and results section
• Generic concluding phrases (e.g. “In conclusion …”)
• Weak statements that undermine your argument (e.g., “There are good points on both sides of this issue.”)

Your conclusion should leave the reader with a strong, decisive impression of your work.

While it may be tempting to present new arguments or evidence in your thesis or disseration conclusion , especially if you have a particularly striking argument you’d like to finish your analysis with, you shouldn’t. Theses and dissertations follow a more formal structure than this.

All your findings and arguments should be presented in the body of the text (more specifically in the discussion section and results section .) The conclusion is meant to summarize and reflect on the evidence and arguments you have already presented, not introduce new ones.

A theoretical framework can sometimes be integrated into a  literature review chapter , but it can also be included as its own chapter or section in your dissertation . As a rule of thumb, if your research involves dealing with a lot of complex theories, it’s a good idea to include a separate theoretical framework chapter.

A literature review and a theoretical framework are not the same thing and cannot be used interchangeably. While a theoretical framework describes the theoretical underpinnings of your work, a literature review critically evaluates existing research relating to your topic. You’ll likely need both in your dissertation .

While a theoretical framework describes the theoretical underpinnings of your work based on existing research, a conceptual framework allows you to draw your own conclusions, mapping out the variables you may use in your study and the interplay between them.

A thesis or dissertation outline is one of the most critical first steps in your writing process. It helps you to lay out and organize your ideas and can provide you with a roadmap for deciding what kind of research you’d like to undertake.

Generally, an outline contains information on the different sections included in your thesis or dissertation , such as:

• Your anticipated title
• Your abstract
• Your chapters (sometimes subdivided into further topics like literature review , research methods , avenues for future research, etc.)

When you mention different chapters within your text, it’s considered best to use Roman numerals for most citation styles. However, the most important thing here is to remain consistent whenever using numbers in your dissertation .

In most styles, the title page is used purely to provide information and doesn’t include any images. Ask your supervisor if you are allowed to include an image on the title page before doing so. If you do decide to include one, make sure to check whether you need permission from the creator of the image.

Include a note directly beneath the image acknowledging where it comes from, beginning with the word “ Note .” (italicized and followed by a period). Include a citation and copyright attribution . Don’t title, number, or label the image as a figure , since it doesn’t appear in your main text.

Definitional terms often fall into the category of common knowledge , meaning that they don’t necessarily have to be cited. This guidance can apply to your thesis or dissertation glossary as well.

However, if you’d prefer to cite your sources , you can follow guidance for citing dictionary entries in MLA or APA style for your glossary.

A glossary is a collection of words pertaining to a specific topic. In your thesis or dissertation, it’s a list of all terms you used that may not immediately be obvious to your reader. In contrast, an index is a list of the contents of your work organized by page number.

The title page of your thesis or dissertation goes first, before all other content or lists that you may choose to include.

The title page of your thesis or dissertation should include your name, department, institution, degree program, and submission date.

Glossaries are not mandatory, but if you use a lot of technical or field-specific terms, it may improve readability to add one to your thesis or dissertation. Your educational institution may also require them, so be sure to check their specific guidelines.

A glossary or “glossary of terms” is a collection of words pertaining to a specific topic. In your thesis or dissertation, it’s a list of all terms you used that may not immediately be obvious to your reader. Your glossary only needs to include terms that your reader may not be familiar with, and is intended to enhance their understanding of your work.

A glossary is a collection of words pertaining to a specific topic. In your thesis or dissertation, it’s a list of all terms you used that may not immediately be obvious to your reader. In contrast, dictionaries are more general collections of words.

An abbreviation is a shortened version of an existing word, such as Dr. for Doctor. In contrast, an acronym uses the first letter of each word to create a wholly new word, such as UNESCO (an acronym for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization).

As a rule of thumb, write the explanation in full the first time you use an acronym or abbreviation. You can then proceed with the shortened version. However, if the abbreviation is very common (like PC, USA, or DNA), then you can use the abbreviated version from the get-go.

Be sure to add each abbreviation in your list of abbreviations !

If you only used a few abbreviations in your thesis or dissertation , you don’t necessarily need to include a list of abbreviations .

If your abbreviations are numerous, or if you think they won’t be known to your audience, it’s never a bad idea to add one. They can also improve readability, minimizing confusion about abbreviations unfamiliar to your reader.

A list of abbreviations is a list of all the abbreviations that you used in your thesis or dissertation. It should appear at the beginning of your document, with items in alphabetical order, just after your table of contents .

Your list of tables and figures should go directly after your table of contents in your thesis or dissertation.

Lists of figures and tables are often not required, and aren’t particularly common. They specifically aren’t required for APA-Style, though you should be careful to follow their other guidelines for figures and tables .

If you have many figures and tables in your thesis or dissertation, include one may help you stay organized. Your educational institution may require them, so be sure to check their guidelines.

A list of figures and tables compiles all of the figures and tables that you used in your thesis or dissertation and displays them with the page number where they can be found.

The table of contents in a thesis or dissertation always goes between your abstract and your introduction .

You may acknowledge God in your dissertation acknowledgements , but be sure to follow academic convention by also thanking the members of academia, as well as family, colleagues, and friends who helped you.

A literature review is a survey of credible sources on a topic, often used in dissertations , theses, and research papers . Literature reviews give an overview of knowledge on a subject, helping you identify relevant theories and methods, as well as gaps in existing research. Literature reviews are set up similarly to other  academic texts , with an introduction , a main body, and a conclusion .

An  annotated bibliography is a list of  source references that has a short description (called an annotation ) for each of the sources. It is often assigned as part of the research process for a  paper .  

In a thesis or dissertation, the discussion is an in-depth exploration of the results, going into detail about the meaning of your findings and citing relevant sources to put them in context.

The conclusion is more shorter and more general: it concisely answers your main research question and makes recommendations based on your overall findings.

In the discussion , you explore the meaning and relevance of your research results , explaining how they fit with existing research and theory. Discuss:

• Your  interpretations : what do the results tell us?
• The  implications : why do the results matter?
• The  limitation s : what can’t the results tell us?

The results chapter or section simply and objectively reports what you found, without speculating on why you found these results. The discussion interprets the meaning of the results, puts them in context, and explains why they matter.

In qualitative research , results and discussion are sometimes combined. But in quantitative research , it’s considered important to separate the objective results from your interpretation of them.

Results are usually written in the past tense , because they are describing the outcome of completed actions.

The results chapter of a thesis or dissertation presents your research results concisely and objectively.

In quantitative research , for each question or hypothesis , state:

• The type of analysis used
• Relevant results in the form of descriptive and inferential statistics
• Whether or not the alternative hypothesis was supported

In qualitative research , for each question or theme, describe:

• Recurring patterns
• Significant or representative individual responses
• Relevant quotations from the data

Don’t interpret or speculate in the results chapter.

To automatically insert a table of contents in Microsoft Word, follow these steps:

• Apply heading styles throughout the document.
• In the references section in the ribbon, locate the Table of Contents group.
• Click the arrow next to the Table of Contents icon and select Custom Table of Contents.
• Select which levels of headings you would like to include in the table of contents.

Make sure to update your table of contents if you move text or change headings. To update, simply right click and select Update Field.

All level 1 and 2 headings should be included in your table of contents . That means the titles of your chapters and the main sections within them.

The contents should also include all appendices and the lists of tables and figures, if applicable, as well as your reference list .

Do not include the acknowledgements or abstract in the table of contents.

The abstract appears on its own page in the thesis or dissertation , after the title page and acknowledgements but before the table of contents .

An abstract for a thesis or dissertation is usually around 200–300 words. There’s often a strict word limit, so make sure to check your university’s requirements.

In a thesis or dissertation, the acknowledgements should usually be no longer than one page. There is no minimum length.

The acknowledgements are generally included at the very beginning of your thesis , directly after the title page and before the abstract .

In the acknowledgements of your thesis or dissertation, you should first thank those who helped you academically or professionally, such as your supervisor, funders, and other academics.

Then you can include personal thanks to friends, family members, or anyone else who supported you during the process.

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• Decisions, Decisions

Letter of thanks to PhD supervisor, and request for a meeting

By grad_stu May 1, 2013 in Decisions, Decisions

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I got a letter saying I have been approved for PhD starting this Fall. I now want to write a letter of thanks to my supervisor, and also request a meeting to set thing up. (Should I request a meeting before the semester officially starts?)

Please help me in drafting the letter

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fuzzylogician

Supervisor = advisor at the new school? What do you need a meeting for? Have you had any contact with this person after being admitted (and/or after accepting the admissions offer)?

Yes Supervisor = Prof (who is gonna supervise my research and approved my admission)

No, I have not been in touch with him, since I got my offer. This will be my first email

What is the purpose of writing? I suppose you can just write to say you've accepted the admissions offer from this school, are excited to attend next Fall and ask whether the prof has any recommendations for anything you should do over the summer (reading, preparation, etc).

What I did was tell the new supervisor approximately what date I expected to arrive at the new school (something general like "early/mid/late August/September", depending on your case) and said that when I do arrive and get settled, I'll send them a further message to set up a meeting. I think it's a little premature to set up a specific meeting date so far in advance, especially since the actual meeting time isn't that urgent. It is useful to have a meeting soon after you arrive though -- maybe you can even get some stuff started before classes begin! However, this meeting can be scheduled after you actually arrive! If you're arriving significantly early (weeks or months) then you should ask if you can start getting paid as an RA earlier too. 

I think it shows initiative on your part to make contact, and see if he or she is open to a meeting, lab tour etc. You'd probably hash out a plan of study or at least figure out a reading list for the summer. There's no harm in establishing a relationship. Since I will be in the Toronto area anyways, I arranged for a meeting with my new supervisor so we can be acquainted and so I could meet his lab group. I will also be using that time to start looking for an apartment. 

Yeah thats exactly what I am looking for. How do I formulate my first email, requesting for a meeting?

How far away is it. It would be a little weird to send an unsolicited email asking the guy to fly you out. If you will happen to be in his vicinity, I would send an email thanking him for agreeing to your supervision and that you will be available around such and such date if he would like to meet. Otherwise, I would just wait until you are contacted.

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How do I email my supervisor? Part two – the thank you note.

The questions might be naive, but I do want to learn more about the “Australian” way of sending regards to supervisors. My supervisor invited me to a formal business dinner this week with some other professors. As a PhD student who just started research, I felt thrilled about this occasion. He will be on his sabbatical leave soon and we will continue to contact via email, once a month. From the culture of my own country, I should send my supervisor an email containing all the following items. However, I am also thinking about the concerns listed in the brackets. I am not sure whether such a personal email is too far for this more professional supervisor-student relationship in Australia. Thanks again for the dinner. (I have already expressed my gratitude orally and in a previous email. Will this be tedious?) Thanks for all his guidance and caring for the past several months. (But it sounds like a concluding remark, which might not be proper at this time.) Have a safe journey. (A must-say in my hometown. But I was told it was considered odd, or even rude by some Americans. The main reason for this email.) Enjoy the sabbatical leave. (Enjoy?) I will work hard during this period. (Another must-say. But I have never heard students promise this in western countries.) I am struggling between my rational brain and emotional brain, as well as two different cultures. Looking forward to hearing from you. Warm regards, Courteous Student

Here is what I wrote back:

Dear Courteous,

Inter-cultural communication is, indeed, delicate work. Add to that the stress of playing the role of ‘junior’ colleague in academia… let’s just say, it’s challenging. Even students raised in the same culture as their supervisor can struggle with this kind of communication task, which is why it is an excellent topic for a blog post!

When we write a letter, we are playing a role. Think about a letter you would write to a friend while you are on holiday vs a letter you would write to a politician, complaining about Australia’s refugee policy. Want to sound happy and affectionate to your friend and angry and persuasive to the politician. You are a different person when you write each letter. You play the role through your choice of greeting, the words you use, expressive punctuation and so on. For instance, you would not sign off an angry letter to a politician with “with love”; the recipient of your letter will feel very weird, and you will have failed to communicate.

Unlike other parts of formal education, you do not have a ‘social ritual’ that will guide you in everyday interactions with your supervisor; the relationship will emerge and develop over time. Each supervisor / PhD student relationship is unique. I have a very different kind of relationship with every PhD student I supervise, even though I like to think I approach everyone the same way. When the communication is electronic, the interaction problem is magnified because you don’t have live feedback from the person to judge and adjust your performance. Too casual? Too formal? It’s tough to find the right tone, especially at the beginning of your working relationship.

The ‘meta’ problem here is that you do not have a well-defined role to play. Are you a student? A junior colleague? A friend? You can be all three at the same time, or just one, depending on how the relationship between yourself and your supervisor evolves. Even if you do get to the ‘friends’ end of the spectrum, there will still be a power relationship that is unequal; at least until you graduate and in all likelihood, beyond. Recently I met my delightful and supportive masters supervisor at a social event, completely by chance. I studied with her 18 years ago now (!). Back then we were in almost daily contact, even though now we speak but rarely. We certainly became friends, after a fashion. But I still feel like a junior colleague when I talk to her. She’s the most unthreatening, lovely person you can imagine, so this wasn’t from anything she did at the time, or since.

It’s tricky, so let’s tackle it one letter at a time. Here’s what I would write, based on your list of what you want to express. My explanation for every sentence is in square brackets. Reading these notes gives you a sense of how difficult it can be to negotiate the supervisor/student power relations, even in a very everyday piece of correspondence:

Dear [whatever you call him/her – in Australia, most supervisors are more comfortable with first names from PhD students]

I hope you enjoy your sabbatical [‘enjoy’ is an entirely appropriate here – us academics are nerdy and a sabbatical is a dream come true!] . I appreciate all your guidance and care over the last couple of months [keep emotional stuff short and to the point, but don’t forget to include it. If you’ve already thanked by email for the dinner, don’t do it again because in Australia this will feel overbearing. We are not good with gratitude. Maybe it’s a convict thing?] . I plan to work on [insert something general, but specific here like your upcoming milestone presentation. Being specific shows your supervisor that you are confident and have things under control and that you have listened to their advice] over the next couple of months. I’m looking forward to our emails/touching base [this sentence confirms your agreement about communication over the next little while, so he/she knows you understand. The second mode of expression ‘touching base’ is more casual, depends on whether you feel your relationship is moving in that direction or not]  every two weeks. Do let me know if you need to change this arrangement for any reason [indicates you are flexible and understand the nature of his/her leave – gives them something to thank you for, an important ingredient of this sort of communication. In English, saying thanks demands another thanks and sometimes it’s hard to know how to stop the cycle. One reason why emojis are so useful in text messaging!] . Safe travels! [this is a casual way of wishing someone all the best on a journey – not offensive and entirely appropriate. you can choose whether you use the exclamation mark – makes it sound more ‘jaunty’ if you do, thus decreasing the emotional content].

[your usual sign off … mine is ‘best’ if I don’t know a person that well or just my initial in lower case: “i”, if they are a colleague-friend ]

Have you ever struggled to find the right ‘tone’ to email your supervisor? What were you trying to say? Did you manage to communicate well, or not? Love to hear your stories in the comments – from your issues, more blog posts might come!

Related posts

How to email your supervisor (or the tyranny of tiny tasks and what you can do about it)

Five ways to avoid death by email

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The Thesis Whisperer is written by Professor Inger Mewburn, director of researcher development at The Australian National University . New posts on the first Wednesday of the month. Subscribe by email below. Visit the About page to find out more about me, my podcasts and books. I'm on most social media platforms as @thesiswhisperer. The best places to talk to me are LinkedIn , Mastodon and Threads.

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