acknowledgement quotes phd thesis

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Acknowledgement for PhD Thesis (5 Samples and Guide)

January 12, 2024

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By Mohsin Khurshid

Embarking on your PhD journey? Unveil the art of crafting sincere acknowledgments with our guide. Explore 5 curated samples to master the skill of expressing gratitude in your PhD thesis. From mentors to contributors, discover the perfect tone for your acknowledgment section. Stick around for a comprehensive guide on crafting your own.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 PhD Acknowledgement Sample
• 1.2 PhD Thesis Acknowledgement Sample
• 1.3 PhD Dissertation Acknowledgement (Long Sample)
• 1.4 Acknowledgement PhD Thesis (Short Sample)
• 1.5 Sample Acknowledgement for PhD Thesis File
• 2 How to Write Acknowledgement for PhD Thesis?
• 3 Conclusion

Best Five PhD Thesis Acknowledgement Samples

Curious about exemplary PhD thesis acknowledgments? Dive into our handpicked collection of 5 samples. Each one offers a unique perspective, providing inspiration for expressing your gratitude in your dissertation. From mentor appreciation to acknowledging contributors, these samples serve as valuable templates for your own heartfelt acknowledgments.

PhD Acknowledgement Sample

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my esteemed supervisors, Prof. XXX and Dr. XXX, whose unwavering guidance, continuous support, and boundless patience have been the cornerstones of my PhD journey. Their wealth of knowledge and extensive experience has not only enriched my academic endeavors but has also been a source of inspiration in my daily life.

Special thanks to Dr. XXX and Dr. XXX for their technical expertise, contributing significantly to the success of my study. The members of XXX have played a pivotal role in making my academic experience and life in the UK truly wonderful through their generous help and support.

Finally, I express deep appreciation to my parents, my wife, and my children, whose understanding and encouragement have been indispensable. Without their unwavering support, completing my study would have been an insurmountable challenge.

PhD Thesis Acknowledgement Sample

My sincere appreciation goes to my esteemed supervisor, Dr. XXX, whose invaluable supervision, unwavering support, and expert guidance have been instrumental throughout my pursuit of a PhD degree. I extend gratitude to the Faculty of XXX for providing the funding opportunity that allowed me to undertake my studies at the esteemed Department of XXX, University of XXX.

Dr. XXX deserves special acknowledgment for her influential support, significantly shaping my experimental methods and offering insightful critiques of my results. I also express my thanks to Dr. XXX, Dr. XXX, and Dr. XXX for their mentorship, which has greatly contributed to my academic growth.

Heartfelt thanks to my friends, lab mates, colleagues, and the research team – XXX, XXX, XXX, XXX – for the cherished time spent together in the lab and social settings. I am deeply thankful to my family and friends for their unwavering encouragement and support throughout my academic journey.

PhD Dissertation Acknowledgement (Long Sample)

I extend my sincere gratitude to my esteemed advisor, Prof. _______, whose unwavering support, patience, motivation, and profound knowledge have been instrumental throughout my Ph.D. study and related research. His guidance has been a beacon, shaping my research endeavors and enriching the writing of this thesis. I am immensely grateful for the privilege of having such a dedicated advisor and mentor.

In addition to my advisor, I express my heartfelt thanks to the members of my thesis committee: Prof. __________, Prof. ___________, and Dr. ____________. Their insightful comments, encouragement, and challenging questions spurred me to broaden my research perspectives.

Special appreciation is due to Dr. _________, Dr. ______________, and Dr. __________ for providing me the opportunity to intern with their team and granting access to invaluable laboratory resources. Without their precious support, the successful conduct of this research would not have been possible.

I am indebted to my fellow labmates for their stimulating discussions, the collaborative efforts during sleepless nights leading up to deadlines, and the camaraderie that enriched the past four years. Gratitude extends to my friends at __________________________ for their companionship, with a special acknowledgment to Dr. Chen Fan for offering a first glimpse into the world of research.

Last but certainly not least, heartfelt thanks go to my family—my parents, brothers, and sister—for their unwavering spiritual support throughout the thesis writing process and in all aspects of my life.

Acknowledgement PhD Thesis (Short Sample)

I extend my deepest appreciation to my advisor, Prof. _______, for being a guiding light throughout my Ph.D. journey. His unwavering support, patience, and immense knowledge have been indispensable. My heartfelt thanks go to the members of my thesis committee—Prof. __________, Prof. ___________, and Dr. ____________—for their valuable insights and encouragement.

Special gratitude is reserved for Dr. _________, Dr. ______________, and Dr. __________ for their support during my internship and providing access to vital research facilities. I am grateful to my labmates for their camaraderie and shared dedication, and to my friends at __________________________ for their constant support.

Last but not least, my family—parents, brothers, and sister—deserve profound thanks for their unwavering encouragement and spiritual support throughout this academic pursuit.

Sample Acknowledgement for PhD Thesis File

In presenting this PhD thesis, I express my sincere gratitude to Prof. _______, my dedicated advisor, for his invaluable guidance. My appreciation extends to the members of my thesis committee—Prof. __________, Prof. ___________, and Dr. ____________—for their constructive comments and motivation.

Thanks to Dr. _________, Dr. ______________, and Dr. __________ for providing a rewarding internship experience and access to essential research resources. To my labmates and friends at __________________________, your collaboration and support have been cherished.

Lastly, heartfelt thanks to my family—parents, brothers, and sister—for their enduring encouragement and unwavering belief in my academic journey. This thesis file stands as a culmination of collective support and collaborative effort.

How to Write Acknowledgement for PhD Thesis?

Writing the acknowledgment section for your PhD thesis is an essential expression of gratitude towards those who played a significant role in your academic journey. Follow these guidelines to craft a meaningful and well-structured acknowledgment:

1. Identify Key Contributors:

• Acknowledge your primary advisor and thesis committee members first.
• Recognize mentors, colleagues, and institutions that provided support.

2. Be Specific and Personal:

• Mention individuals by name and specify their contributions.
• Share personal anecdotes or experiences to make the acknowledgment genuine.

3. Use Gracious Language:

• Employ a positive and appreciative tone throughout the acknowledgment.
• Express gratitude for the specific ways each individual or institution contributed.

4. Order of Mention:

• Typically, advisors and committee members are acknowledged first, followed by other contributors.
• Consider grouping individuals by their role or contribution.

5. Include Professional Courtesy:

• Follow any specific guidelines or formalities suggested by your institution.
• If acknowledging professionals or organizations, maintain a respectful and professional tone.

6. Avoid Overuse of Formal Language:

• Keep the language clear, concise, and heartfelt.
• Strike a balance between formality and a personal touch.

7. Consider Length and Relevance:

• Keep the acknowledgment section concise, focusing on individuals or entities directly related to your thesis .
• Ensure that all acknowledgments are relevant to the academic context.

8. Express Gratitude to Loved Ones:

• Don’t forget to express heartfelt thanks to family and friends who provided emotional support.

“I extend my deepest appreciation to my primary advisor, Prof. _______, for their unwavering guidance. Special thanks to my committee members—Prof. __________ and Dr. __________—for their insightful comments. Gratitude to Dr. _________ and Dr. ______________ for their valuable contributions during my internship. I am also indebted to my labmates, friends at __________________________, and my family for their enduring support. Crafting this acknowledgment allows me to express my profound gratitude to each contributor, without whom this PhD thesis would not have been possible.”

Remember, the acknowledgment is a personal expression of gratitude, so tailor it to reflect your genuine appreciation for the support received during your PhD journey.

In wrapping up, these acknowledgments weave a story of collective support that fueled the success of your PhD thesis. Each thanked individual, from advisors to family, played a vital role in your academic journey. Beyond mere formalities, this acknowledgment is a tribute to shared dedication and encouragement. As you step into the next phase of your academic or professional pursuits, carry with you the echoes of gratitude and collaboration. Here’s to the collaborative spirit that turned challenges into triumphs and the connections that made your thesis journey remarkable.

6 Best Master Thesis Acknowledgement Samples

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• Acknowledgements for PhD Thesis and Dissertations – Explained
• Doing a PhD

The Purpose of Acknowledgements

The acknowledgement section of a thesis or dissertation is where you recognise and thank those who supported you during your PhD. This can be but is not limited to individuals, institutions or organisations.

Although your acknowledgements will not be used to evaluate your work, it is still an important section of your thesis. This is because it can have a positive (or negative for that matter) influence the perception of your reader before they even reach the main body of your work.

Who Should I Acknowledge?

Acknowledgements for a PhD thesis will typically fall into one of two categories – professional or personal.

Within these categories, who you thank will ultimately be your decision. However, it’s imperative that you pay special attention to the ‘professional’ group. This is because not thanking someone who has played an important role in your studies, whether it be intentional or accidental, will more often than not be seen as a dismissal of their efforts. Not only would this be unfair if they genuinely helped you, but from a certain political aspect, it could also jeopardise any opportunities for future collaborations .

Professional Acknowledgements

This may include, but is not limited to:

• Funding bodies/sponsorship providers
• Supervisors
• Research group and lab assistants
• Research participants
• Proofreaders

Personal Acknowledgements

• Key family members and friends
• Individuals who inspired you or directly influenced your academic journey
• Anyone else who has provided personal support that you would like to mention

It should be noted that certain universities have policies which state only those who have directly supported your work, such as supervisors and professors, should be included in your acknowledgements. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you read your university guidelines before writing this section of your thesis.

How to Write Acknowledgements for PhD Thesis

When producing this section, your writing style can be more informal compared to the rest of your thesis. This includes writing in first person and using more emotive language. Although in most cases you will have complete freedom in how you write this section of your thesis, it is still highly advisable to keep it professional. As mentioned earlier, this is largely because it will be one of the first things your assessors will read, and so it will help set the tone for the rest of your work.

In terms of its structure, acknowledgements are expected to be ordered in a manner that first recognises the most formal support before moving onto the less formal support. In most cases, this follows the same order that we have outlined in the ‘Who Should I Thank’ section.

When thanking professionals, always write out their full name and provide their title. This is because although you may be on a first-name basis with them, those who read your thesis will not. By providing full names and titles, not only do you help ensure clarity, but it could also indirectly contribute to the credibility of your thesis should the individual you’re thanking be well known within your field.

If you intend to include a list of people from one institution or organisation, it is best to list their names in alphabetical order. The exception to this is when a particular individual has been of significant assistance; here, it would be advisable to list them.

How Long Should My Acknowledgements Be?

Acknowledgements vary considerably in length. Some are a single paragraph whilst some continue for up to three pages. The length of your acknowledgement page will mostly depend on the number of individuals you want to recognise.

As a general rule, try to keep your acknowledgements section to a single page. Although there are no word limits, creating a lengthy acknowledgements section dilutes the gratitude you’re trying to express, especially to those who have supported you the most.

Where Should My Acknowledgements Go?

In the vast majority of cases, your acknowledgements should appear directly after your abstract and before your table of contents.

However, we highly advise you to check your university guidelines as a few universities set out their own specific order which they will expect you to follow.

Phrases to Help You Get Started

We appreciate how difficult it can be to truly show how grateful you are to those who have supported you over the years, especially in words.

To help you get started, we’ve provided you with a few examples of sentences that you can complete or draw ideas from.

• I am deeply grateful to XXX…
• I would like to express my sincere gratitude to XXX…
• I would like to offer my special thanks to XXX…
• I would like to extend my sincere thanks to XXX…
• …for their assistance at every stage of the research project.
• …for their insightful comments and suggestions.
• …for their contribution to XXX.
• …for their unwavering support and belief in me.

Thesis Acknowledgement Examples

Below are three PhD thesis acknowledgment samples from which you can draw inspiration. It should be noted that the following have been extracted from theses which are freely available in the public domain. Irrespective of this, references to any individual, department or university have been removed for the sake of privacy.

First and foremost I am extremely grateful to my supervisors, Prof. XXX and Dr. XXX for their invaluable advice, continuous support, and patience during my PhD study. Their immense knowledge and plentiful experience have encouraged me in all the time of my academic research and daily life. I would also like to thank Dr. XXX and Dr. XXX for their technical support on my study. I would like to thank all the members in the XXX. It is their kind help and support that have made my study and life in the UK a wonderful time. Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to my parents, my wife and my children. Without their tremendous understanding and encouragement in the past few years, it would be impossible for me to complete my study.

I would like to thank my supervisors Dr. XXX and Dr. XXX for all their help and advice with this PhD. I would also like to thank my sisters, whom without this would have not been possible. I also appreciate all the support I received from the rest of my family. Lastly, I would like to thank the XXX for the studentship that allowed me to conduct this thesis.

I would like to thank my esteemed supervisor – Dr. XXX for his invaluable supervision, support and tutelage during the course of my PhD degree. My gratitude extends to the Faculty of XXX for the funding opportunity to undertake my studies at the Department of XXX, University of XXX. Additionally, I would like to express gratitude to Dr. XXX for her treasured support which was really influential in shaping my experiment methods and critiquing my results. I also thank Dr. XXX, Dr. XXX, Dr. XXX for their mentorship. I would like to thank my friends, lab mates, colleagues and research team – XXX, XXX, XXX, XXX for a cherished time spent together in the lab, and in social settings. My appreciation also goes out to my family and friends for their encouragement and support all through my studies.

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The Acknowledgements Section

How to write the acknowledgements for your thesis or dissertation

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewers: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | January 2024

Writing the acknowledgements section of your thesis might seem straightforward, but it’s more than just a list of names . In this post, we’ll unpack everything you need to know to write up a rock-solid acknowledgements section for your dissertation or thesis.

Overview: The Acknowledgements

• What (exactly) is the acknowledgements section?

Who should you acknowledge?

• How to write the section
• Practical example
• Free acknowledgements template
• Key takeaways

What is the acknowledgements section?

The acknowledgements section of your thesis or dissertation is where you give thanks to the people who contributed to your project’s success. Generally speaking, this is a relatively brief, less formal section.  

With the acknowledgements section, you have the opportunity to show appreciation for the guidance, support, and resources provided by others during your research journey. We’ll unpack the exact contents, order and structure of this section in this post.

Need a helping hand?

Although this is a less “academic” section, acknowledging the right people in the correct order is still important. Typically, you’ll start with the most formal (academic) support received, before moving on to other types of support.

Here’s a suggested order that you can follow when writing up your acknowledgements:

Level 1: Supervisors and academic staff

Start with those who have provided you with academic guidance, including your supervisor, advisors, and other faculty members.

Level 2: Funding bodies or sponsors

If your research was funded, acknowledging these organisations is essential. You don’t need to get into the specifics of the funding, but you should recognise the important role that this made in bringing your project to life.

Level 3: Colleagues and peers

Next you’ll want to mention those who contributed intellectually to your work, including your fellow cohort members and researchers.

Level 4: Family, friends and pets

Last but certainly not least, you should acknowledge your personal (non-academic) support system – those who have provided emotional and moral support. If Fido kept you company during those long nights hunched over the keyboard, you can also thank him here 🙂

As you can see, the order of the acknowledgements goes from the most academic to the least . Importantly, your thesis or dissertation supervisor (sometimes also called an advisor) generally comes first . This is because they are typically the person most involved in shaping your project (or at least, they should be). Plus, they’re oftentimes involved in marking your final work and so a kind word never hurts…

All that said, remember that your acknowledgements section is personal . So, feel free to adjust this order, but do pay close attention to any guidelines or rules provided by your university. If they specify a certain order or set of contents, follow their instructions to the letter.

How to write the acknowledgements section

In terms of style, try to strike a balance between conveying a formal tone and a personal touch . In practical terms, this means that you should use plain, straightforward language (this isn’t the time for heavy academic jargon), but avoid using any slang, nicknames, etc.

As a guide, you’ll typically use some of the following phrases in the acknowledgements section:

I would like to express my appreciation to… for their help with… I’m particularly grateful to… as they provided… I could not have completed this project without… as this allowed me to… Special thanks to… who did… I had the pleasure of working with… who helped me… I’d also like to recognise… who assisted me with…

In terms of positioning, the acknowledgements section is typically in the preliminary matter , most commonly after the abstract and before the table of contents. In terms of length, this section usually spans one to three paragraphs , but there’s no strict word limit (unless your university’s brief states otherwise, of course).

If you’re unsure where to place your acknowledgements or what length to make this section, it’s a good idea to have a look at past dissertations and theses from your university and/or department to get a clearer view of what the norms are.

Practical Example

Alright, let’s look at an example to give you a better idea of what this section looks like in practice.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Professor Smith, whose expertise and knowledge were invaluable during this research. My sincere thanks also go to the University Research Fund for their financial support.   I am deeply thankful to my colleagues, John and Jane, for their insightful discussions and moral support. Lastly, I must acknowledge my family for their unwavering love and encouragement. Without your support, this project would not have been possible.

As you can see in this example, the section is short and to the point , working from formal support through to personal support.

To simplify the process, we’ve created a free template for the acknowledgements section. If you’re interested, you can download a copy here .

FAQs: Acknowledgements

Can i include some humour in my acknowledgements.

A touch of light humour is okay, but keep it appropriate and professional. Remember that this is still part of an academic document.

Can I acknowledge someone who provided informal or emotional support?

Yes, you can thank anyone who offered emotional support, motivation, or even informal advice that helped you during your studies. This can include friends, family members, or a mentor/coach who provided guidance outside of an academic setting.

Should I mention any challenges or difficulties I faced during my research?

While the acknowledgements section is primarily for expressing gratitude, briefly mentioning significant challenges you overcame can highlight the importance of the support you received. That said, you’ll want to keep the focus on the gratitude aspect and avoid delving too deeply into the challenges themselves.

Can I acknowledge the contribution of participants in my research?

Absolutely. If your research involved participants, especially in fields like social sciences or human studies, acknowledging their contribution is not only courteous but also an ethical practice. It shows respect for their participation and contribution to your research.

How do I acknowledge posthumous gratitude, for someone who passed away during my study period?

Acknowledging a deceased individual who played a significant role in your academic journey can be done respectfully. Mention them in the same way you would a living contributor, perhaps adding a note of remembrance.

For example, “I would like to posthumously acknowledge John McAnders for their invaluable advice and support in the early stages of this research.”.

Is there a limit to the number of people I can acknowledge?

How do i acknowledge a group or organisation.

When thanking a group or organization, mention the entity by name and, if applicable, include specific individuals within the organization who were particularly helpful.

For example, “I extend my thanks to The Speakers Foundation for their support, particularly Mr Joe Wilkins, for their guidance.”

Recap: Key Takeaways

Writing the acknowledgements section of your thesis or dissertation is an opportunity to express gratitude to everyone who helped you along the way.

Remember to:

• Acknowledge those people who significantly contributed to your research journey
• Order your thanks from formal support to personal support
• Maintain a balance between formal and personal tones
• Keep it concise

In a nutshell, use this section to reflect your appreciation in a genuinely and professionally way.

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The Savvy Scientist

Experiences of a London PhD student and beyond

Thesis acknowledgements: Samples and how to write your own thesis or dissertation acknowledgements

Writing a thesis can be tricky. That’s why I’m starting a new series covering each section of the thesis, from thesis acknowledgements all the way to conclusions. I’ll be guiding you through the whole process, from what to include in your thesis to how to write it, along with examples from defended theses to help you to write your own.

We’ll begin by covering thesis acknowledgments. The acknowledgements section appears at the start of the thesis so it is often one of the first parts that everyone tries to tackle. As this will likely be your first taste of your thesis it can often feel quite intimidating to write!

Thankfully it’s also one of the easiest parts of the thesis to complete, which may help to give you a boost for the rest.

In this post we’ll cover everything to do with thesis acknowledgements: samples, what to include and how to write them. At the end I’ll also outline a 60 minute exercise which will get you preparing a first draft of your own! I’ve also got a similar post to craft your thesis title, which you can check out here .

I’m writing this post with a PhD thesis in mind but it could work just as well if you’re looking for help including acknowledgements in your Master’s or undergraduate thesis/ dissertation.

What is the purpose of the acknowledgements section in a thesis?

The acknowledgements section of your thesis is an opportunity to reflect on the people who have supported and shaped your PhD experience.

Don’t worry, although your examiners will be interested to read your acknowledgements section, you won’t really get judged on it in your PhD viva. This section is for you to share as little, or as much, as you want about everyone involved in your PhD journey.

The acknowledgements are a very personal section of your thesis and each PhD student will have different things they want to include. For example, many people wonder: How do I thank my family in a thesis? And the acknowledgements section is the answer!

Note – You can also use a thesis dedication to thank your family. This is a separate section to your thesis acknowledgements and is entirely optional. It’s usually just a single line, just like you might find at the front of some books. Most people don’t include a separate dedication section but you can if you want to go that extra step.

What to include in your thesis acknowledgements

There are usually no formal requirements dictating what to include in your acknowledgements. However, do double check for any potential rules at your specific institution.

In general the acknowledgements are the section of your thesis where you have some creative liberty and are not bound by rigid research protocols or guidelines.

Many students choose to use the acknowledgements section to thank people (or organisations) who:

• Introduced them to the topic
• Helped with their PhD application
• Funded the project
• Supervisors
• Technicians
• Partners, friends or family
• Or anyone else who made an impression along the way!

But remember, you can include whatever you want! For example in my own PhD acknowledgements, which you’ll read further down this post, I thanked the university for providing a green outdoor space for us.

Acknowledge whoever and whatever influenced your own PhD experience.

You may find it helpful to start by writing a list of everyone you wish to thank.

How do you write an acknowledgements section?

Since there are no guidelines to worry about, it is really up to you how you write your own thesis acknowledgements. You have a lot of freedom for what to include and how to write it.

However you may find the following suggested phases helpful as a starting point.

Who you want to thank…

• “First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to…”
• “I must thank…”
• “A special thanks to…”
• “I would like to highlight two truly exceptional people from…”
• “I want to thank…”
• “In addition, I would like to mention”
• “I would also like to extend my thanks to…”
• “I want to give my deepest appreciation to…”
• “Finally, but the most importantly, I would like to thank…”

…then, why you want to thank them

It can be nice to also include why you’re thanking these people, using phrases such as:

• “…for the opportunity to be a part of this project”
• “…for always being there when I needed his support, reviewing my progress constantly, and guiding me through my PhD studies”
• “….for being a great bunch of people in and out of the lab”
• …”for all the guidance, support and outstanding feedback”
• “… who took their time to help teach me…”
• “…for her unlimited support and unconditional guidance during my PhD journey”
• “…were always there for discussions about anything that I was unsure on”
• “…whom has offered invaluable advice that will benefit me throughout my life”
• “…for supporting me since my undergraduate, and for the valuable discussions we had along the road”
• “…for making the past 4 years much more enjoyable and keeping me sane throughout the whole process”

Here is a whole example from an accepted PhD thesis:

Firstly, I want to thank [supervisor’s name(s)] for giving me the opportunity to work on this project, providing valuable guidance and feedback, and challenging me to grow as a scientist.  Excerpt from Dr Wane’s thesis acknowledgements, available via this page or use this direct download link .

Some people will choose to use full names and titles for any professional acknowledgements and first names for any personal ones. Again, this is up to you.

To help illustrate the variety of thesis acknowledgement formats, we’ll shortly be coming on to some examples of acknowledgment sections from successfully defended theses.

Before then I want to cover some of the main questions relating to how to write your own thesis acknowledgements section:

How long should you spend writing your thesis acknowledgements?

My suggestion is to spend only an hour or two making a first draft. I suggest doing this well ahead of your final deadline so that you have time to come back to it. Even so, I’d certainly look to spend far less than one day’s work on it in total.

It is a “nice to have” and means a lot to a lot of people, but remember you’re really only writing this section for yourself. I probably spent about two hours writing mine in total, simply because it wasn’t a priority for me.

What order should you write your acknowledgements in?

A typical way to write your acknowledgements is to go from the most formal/academic relationships to the least.

It is normal to start with any funding bodies, then formal people like your PhD supervisors, then move through labmates, friends and family. But again, there are generally no rules!

How long should the acknowledgements section be?

You can include as much or as little as you want. My own PhD acknowledgements section was just under a page long and it consisted of 386 words or 1892 characters (without spaces).

Here is how it was formatted:

But let’s not just look at my thesis. Using Imperial’s publicly accessible database I went through 25 published PhD theses for you.

The average (mean) length of these 25 theses was 365 words and 1793 characters without spaces. Writing an acknowledgements section of length 350-450 words was the most common:

The shortest acknowledgements sections was 122 words(653 characters) long. The longest one consisted of 1022 words and 5082 characters. Hopefully this illustrates that you’re not really bound by any limits. Write as much or as little as you want for this section.

Sample thesis acknowledgements

My own phd thesis acknowledgement.

My own PhD thesis is available here *, the acknowledgements section is on page 5. Here is the complete version of my acknowledgements section:

I would like to acknowledge both EPSRC and the Class of 1964 Scholarship for their financial support. It has been an honour to be the inaugural recipient of the Class of 1964 Scholarship and I am indebted to the donors in providing me complete academic freedom in this research. An immense thank you to my PhD supervisors: Jonathan Jeffers, Ulrich Hansen and Julian Jones. Support and guidance throughout the project from you all has been invaluable. JJ in particular you’ve been a fantastic primary supervisor. Thank you to all the academics who helped me get to this stage. The late Dr Kajal Mallick and his Biomedical Materials course at the University of Warwick was a huge influence and without which I would have never followed this path. My “pre-doc” supervisors in Dr Helen Lee of University of Cambridge and in particular the remarkable Prof Judith Hall OBE of Cardiff University from whom I learned so much. Thanks to Alison Paul and Michael Lim for being so supportive when I was considering applying for PhDs. It has been an amazing experience working between two research groups across different departments, thanks to everyone from the Biomechanics and JRJ groups I’ve worked with and from whom I’ve learned so much. Thank you of course to the Hybrids team I’ve worked so closely on this project with: Fra, Gloria, Agathe, Maria, Silvia, it’s been great fun working with you all! Gloria in particular thanks for you all your help, support and friendship: your inclusivity is appreciated by many. Saman, I’ve been so pleased to have you working on DVC with me and being able to discuss ideas with you really has been invaluable. I am grateful to everyone I’ve collaborated with externally: Farah, Amin and Brett (Natural History Museum) plus Andy and Behzad (Royal Veterinary College), thank you all for your support and input. Thanks also to everyone I’ve met through the Environmental Society at Imperial in particular Chelcie: your friendship and support have added a lot to my life. Thanks to Imperial for providing space for the ESoc garden, taking a break and enjoy nature in this space has certainly improved my work. Thanks of course to my family for their support. Finally, thank you Jo for always being so supportive and helping me every step of the way. My PhD thesis, available here . Acknowledgements are on page 5.

*For me the thesis was a means to an end. I wanted my PhD and didn’t want to spend too long agonising over each page. Therefore, it is possible there are typos in there, if you read any of it: firstly well done, I haven’t looked at it much since submitting the final copy, secondly, please don’t tell me about any typos you find!

Other PhD thesis acknowledgement examples

Below are the other 24 published and openly accessible STEM PhD theses I found for this article.

For each person’s thesis, either follow the first link to be taken to the landing page or follow the second link to directly download their thesis: I gave you a choice in case you don’t want stuff to start downloading automatically from a random text link!

The list is formatted as follows:

• [Link to thesis page on repository], [which page the acknowledgements appear on], [direct link to download the thesis]
• Dr Shipman’s thesis , for the acknowledgements go to page 3. Direct download here .
• Longest acknowledgements section of the list at 1022 words.
• Dr Li’s thesis , page 11. Direct download here .
• Dr Podgurschi’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
• Dr Medjeral-Thomas’ thesis page 3. Direct download here .
• Dr Sztuc’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
• Dr Yap’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
• Dr Sukkar’s thesis , page 9. Direct download here .
• Dr Lo’s thesis , page 11. Direct download here .
• Dr Sullivan’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
• Dr Tawy’s thesis , page 3. Direct download here .
• Dr Wane’s thesis , page 2. Direct download here .
• Dr Addison’s thesis , page 4. Direct download here .
• Dr Wang’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
• Dr Sebest’s thesis , page 3. Direct download here .
• Dr Hopkins’ thesis , page 7. Direct download here .
• Dr Bates’s thesis , page 4. Direct download here .
• Dr Somuyiwa’s thesis , page 6. Direct download here .
• Dr Reynolds’ thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
• My labmate’s thesis, who wrote the acknowledgements in a different style to the rest by using bullet points.
• Shortest acknowledgements section of the list at 122 words.
• Dr Manca’s thesis , acknowledgements on page 5. Direct download here .
• Dr Liu’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
• Dr Hotinli’s thesis , page 7. Direct download here .

My top tips for writing your own thesis acknowledgements

• Don’t spend too long on them. The acknowledgements section is really not worth spending too much time on. Even worse, since they appear at the start of your thesis, it is tempting to write your acknowledgements first. This can be fine, or, it can be an opportunity for lots of unnecessary procrastination. Which I why I instead suggest that you…
• Write your acknowledgements at the end of your first draft of the thesis. There is no need to write your thesis in the order it is presented. If you write your acknowledgements at the end you’ll be less likely to spend precious time on a section which really doesn’t warrant too much brain power.
• Don’t stress about it. The acknowledgements are merely for yourself and for anyone close to you that you want to thank. There are far more important sections for you to be particular about!
• Remember: You can make changes after you submit the copy for your viva. As with everything in your thesis, you can make changes after you submit the thesis for your viva. The real “final” copy is when you submit your thesis to the university for archiving. Which is even more reason to not spend too much time writing it the first time around.

Draft your own thesis or dissertation acknowledgements in 60 minutes

Hopefully you now feel inspired to start writing your own thesis acknowledgments!

For the exercise below I’d suggest setting a stop-watch on your phone and move on to the next section when the alarm goes, even if you’ve not fully finished. The aim is to have a rough draft at the end which you can polish off at a later point in time.

• Read a few of the example thesis acknowledgements above to get a feel for the structure ( 15 mins )
• List everyone (or everything!) you wish to thank – including any personal and professional acknowledgements in addition to funding bodies if relevant ( 10 mins )
• Decide on a rough order in which to thank them ( 5 mins )
• Craft some sentences using the phrases mentioned above ( 30 mins )

Congratulations you’re now well on your way to having one section of your PhD thesis completed!

I hope this post has been useful for constructing your own thesis or dissertation acknowledgements. It is the first in a series of posts aiming to help your thesis writing by delving into each section in depth. Be sure to let me know if you have any questions or suggestions for other content which you would find useful.

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Dissertation acknowledgments [with examples]

What are dissertation acknowledgements?

What to consider when writing your dissertation acknowledgments, who to thank in your dissertation acknowledgments, what (and what not) to write in your dissertation acknowledgments, good examples of dissertation acknowledgments, a final word on writing dissertation acknowledgments: have fun, frequently asked questions about dissertation acknowledgments, related articles.

While you may be the sole author of your dissertation, there are lots of people who help you through the process—from your formal dissertation advisors to the friends who may have cooked meals so that you could finish your last chapter . Dissertation acknowledgments are a chance to thank everyone who had a hand in the completion of your project.

Dissertation acknowledgments are a brief statement of your gratitude to advisors, professors, peers, family, and friends for their help and expertise.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• the most important things to consider when you’re writing your dissertation acknowledgments
• who to thank in your dissertation acknowledgments
• what (and what not) to write in your dissertation acknowledgments
• short examples of dissertation acknowledgments

Once you’re at the stage where you’re writing your dissertation acknowledgments, you may be tempted to kick back and relax. After all, the hard part of writing the dissertation itself is over and a list of thanks should be simple to churn out.

However, the acknowledgments are an important part of your overall work and are something that most people who read your dissertation, including prospective employers, will look at.

Tip: The best dissertation acknowledgements are concise, sincere, and memorable.

Approach this part of the process, brief as it may be compared to the long haul of writing the dissertation, with the same high level of care and attention to detail. It’s an explicit and permanent statement of who made a real impact on your work and contributed to your academic success.

Plus, the people you thank are often deeply moved by being included—some even go so far as to frame the acknowledgments. Aim to make yours sincere, memorable and something that people will be touched by.

First things first: who should you include in your dissertation acknowledgments? If you’re not sure who to thank, try the brainstorming technique to generate some ideas. Consider these two approaches:

• Make a list of everyone, both professional and personal, who was involved at any point during your work on your dissertation, and then thin down the list from there.
• Make a list of the pivotal aspects of your process and think about who was involved and how they helped.

As you select the people and groups to include in your dissertation acknowledgments, keep in mind that it’s essential to acknowledge your supervisor and anyone else with a visible connection to your work.

It’s an unfortunate reality that not every supervisor goes above and beyond to provide feedback and guidance to the students they are supposed to supervise. However, leaving them out, even if you personally felt disappointed by their involvement or lack thereof, could be seen as a snub.

You should end up with a fairly short list of people to thank. While being mindful of professional etiquette and personal feelings, be choosy about who makes the final cut since your acknowledgments should be limited to no more than a page.

Now that you have your list of people and groups to thank, it’s time to start writing. Before your first pen or keystroke, however, check your university’s guidelines as your institution may have specific rules around what can and cannot be included.

The standard practice is to begin with the formal and then progress to the informal, so the first people to mention would be:

• supervisors
• committee members
• other professional contacts

Use their full names and titles and go into brief detail about how they contributed to your work.

Once those are done, you can move on to the personal thanks, which can include friends, family, even pets. If you are so inclined, it is also considered appropriate to thank God or make mention of spiritual support.

You may also choose to inject a little humor at this point, but don’t get carried away and definitely don’t include sarcasm or critical comments of any kind, including self-critical ones. Remember that the acknowledgments precede your dissertation, so you want to be taken seriously.

A couple more basics that are essential when creating your acknowledgments:

• Position: Acknowledgments should be placed after the title page and before the abstract.
• Perspective: Write from the first-person perspective and speak in your own voice.

A really good way to get a sense of how to write your own dissertation acknowledgments is to read ones written by others. Notice which ones you respond particularly well to and use them as a model upon which to base your own.

Here are some good examples to help you get started:

I couldn’t have reached this goal without the help of many people in my life. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for their support.

First, my sincere thanks to my dissertation committee. The value of their guidance cannot be overstated. Dr. Elaine Gooding and Dr. Matthew Hunter provided much wisdom that helped me chart my course. I couldn’t have asked for a better supervisor than Dr. Fiona Moore, whose knowledge and experience guided me every step of the way.

Next, I’d like to thank my partner, Elliott. Your votes of confidence kept me going when my spirits dipped. I couldn’t have done this without you.

Last but not least, I’d like to acknowledge the emotional support provided by my family and friends. We made it to the top of the mountain! I look forward to celebrating with all of you.

This example is shorter, but still contains the key components:

Several people played a decisive role in my success and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them.

My chair, Dr. Ronald Saulk, provided invaluable support and infinite patience and I am truly grateful for all of his wisdom and guidance. I also owe the entire staff of the Wilhelm Library a debt of gratitude. From tracking down books and arranging for interlibrary loans to keeping the coffee maker in the lobby well-stocked and in good working order, they offered the practical help and kind gestures that made all the difference.

I’d also like to thank my family and God, for always being there for me.

One final piece of advice: enjoy this process. Writing a dissertation doesn’t happen every day, and the opportunity to acknowledge the important people in your life in a published format is as rare as it is wonderful.

What’s more, this part of your dissertation is unlike any other. It’s unbounded by the conventions that apply to the formal work. It’s a chance to really flex some creative muscle and let your personality shine through. So make the most of it and have fun!

In your dissertation acknowledgments, you thank everyone who has contributed to your work or supported you along the way. Who you want to thank is a very personal choice, but you should include your supervisors and anyone else with a visible connection to your work. You may also thank friends, family, and partners.

First, you need to come up with a list of people you want to thank in your dissertation acknowledgments. As a next step, begin with the formal and then progress to the informal, so the first people to mention would be supervisors, mentors, committees, and other professional contacts. Then, you can move on to the personal thanks, which can include friends, family, even pets.

Who you acknowledge in your dissertation is ultimately up to you. You should, however, thank your supervisor and anyone else with a visible connection to your work. Leaving them out, even if you personally felt disappointed by their involvement or lack thereof, could be seen as a snub. In addition, you can thank friends, partners or family.

There are many ways so you can acknowledge your dissertation supervisor. Some examples can be found in this article above. If you need more examples, you can find them here .

While acknowledgments are usually more present in academic theses, they can also be a part of research papers. In academic theses, acknowledgments are usually found at the beginning, somewhere between abstract and introduction. In research papers, acknowledgments are usually found at the end of the paper.

How to write acknowledgements in a thesis or dissertation

Navigating the intricate process of writing a thesis or dissertation can be challenging.

One crucial, yet often overlooked part is the thesis acknowledgement. It is also the only bit of my thesis that anyone really reads.

This section allows you to express gratitude to those who contributed to your academic journey. From supervisors and professors to family and friends, the acknowledgement section provides a platform to thank all who played a part in your work.

Whether you’re unsure about how to begin or looking for the best ways to acknowledge your mentors, this blog will provide valuable insights and practical advice to help you create an impactful thesis acknowledgement.

What is your thesis acknowledgement?

A thesis acknowledgement is a section in your thesis where you express gratitude to those who helped and supported you during your research and writing process.

It typically comprises two parts: professional and personal acknowledgements.

• Professional acknowledgements include your supervisor, colleagues, other academics, funding bodies, or institutions that significantly contributed to your work.
• Personal acknowledgements encompass your family and friends who provided emotional support or helped with editing and proofreading.

The acknowledgements section is usually more informal than the rest of your thesis , and it’s acceptable to write in the first person. It’s typically placed at the beginning of your thesis, either before the abstract or the table of contents.

Although the length may vary, it usually doesn’t exceed one page. It’s crucial to plan ahead, listing everyone you wish to thank and consider their specific contribution to your work.

Who to thank in your acknowledgements

In your acknowledgements, you should first thank the members of academia who contributed to your research, including:

• funding bodies,
• supervisors,
• professors,
• proofreaders,
• and research participants.

Mention them using their full names and titles.

If an authoritative figure in your field provided feedback, their acknowledgement adds weight to your research.

Despite the circumstances, a brief thank you to your supervisor is necessary.

Personal acknowledgements can include friends, family members, or even pets who provided inspiration or support during the writing process. Always refer to your university’s guidelines on acknowledgements.

Creating an acknowledgement can be slightly subjective, as the order and individuals to be thanked can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of the work and the author’s preferences.

However, generally, this example follows a common structure:

The order can be customized based on the importance of the roles these individuals played in the author’s journey.

Some may prefer to thank family or significant others first, while others might start with professional relationships such as advisors or collaborators.

It’s also crucial to keep in mind that the way of expressing gratitude can differ significantly between cultures and individuals.

How Long Should My Acknowledgements Be?

The length of an acknowledgement section varies depending on the individual and the nature of the project.

Some people prefer to keep their acknowledgements brief and only thank those individuals who made significant contributions to their work.

Others may choose to include a more extensive list of people, such as mentors, colleagues, and friends, who provided support and encouragement throughout the process.

In general, it is recommended to keep your acknowledgements concise and focused on those who had a direct impact on the project

. Including a heartfelt thank you to these individuals is a meaningful way to show appreciation for their efforts.

However, it is important not to get carried away and turn the acknowledgement page into a long list of names. Remember that the focus should be on quality rather than quantity, as the acknowledgement section should not overshadow the main content of the project. 

Where Should My Acknowledgements Go?

The placement of your acknowledgements can vary, but it’s typically located in the first part of your thesis.

Mine is right after the abstract and before the introduction of my PhD thesis. 

You can place it right before your dissertation abstract or before the table of contents. However, the exact positioning may depend on the guidelines and requirements provided by your university.

Always ensure to check your university’s formatting requirements to be sure you’ve chosen the correct location for your acknowledgements section. 

Thesis acknowledgement examples

Here is my PhD thesis acknowledgement.

Here are some sentence starters that you can use for inspiration:

1. “This thesis acknowledgement is a tribute to all the people who made my academic journey worthwhile.” 2. “I would like to thank my supervisor, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in the completion of this thesis.” 3. “In this acknowledgement section, I extend my deepest gratitude to all who have walked with me on this challenging but fulfilling journey.” 4. “Firstly, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the academic staff who provided their invaluable expertise and guidance.” 5. “My thesis would not have been possible without the endless help and support from my colleagues.” 6. “Special thanks go to my family, whose constant encouragement fueled my perseverance during the completion of this dissertation.” 7. “In the professional acknowledgements, I would like to acknowledge the significant contributions made by my research participants.” 8. “I would also like to thank the funding bodies, whose financial support made this research possible.” 9. “Through this acknowledgment, I express my heartfelt gratitude to my friends who have been my pillars of strength.” 10. “The completion of this thesis or dissertation is the culmination of efforts from various individuals whom I would like to express my sincere appreciation.” 11. “This thesis acknowledgement section is an opportunity to give thanks to those who made this journey less daunting.” 12. “I would like to express my gratitude to my editor, whose meticulous proofreading greatly improved my thesis.” 13. “Without their dedication, this thesis would not have been possible.” 14. “I express my sincere gratitude to all those whose names appear in this acknowledgement for their invaluable input.” 15. “In this acknowledgement for my thesis, I extend my appreciation to all those who have been part of this journey.”

Top tips to write acknowledgements

• Plan Ahead : Make a list of the people you want to acknowledge and their specific contributions to your work.
• Follow University Guidelines : Check your university’s formatting and content guidelines to ensure your acknowledgements adhere to them.
• Use First Person : Unlike the rest of your thesis, the acknowledgements can be written in the first person.
• Keep it Brief : The acknowledgement section should generally not exceed one page. Be concise and precise in expressing your gratitude.
• Maintain Professional-Personal Order : Start with professional acknowledgements (e.g., supervisors, colleagues, funders) before moving on to personal ones (e.g., friends, family).
• Be Specific : Highlight the specific contributions each person or organization made to your thesis.
• Use Full Names and Titles : When acknowledging academic contributors, use their full names and appropriate titles.
• Use Informal Language : Acknowledgements can be written in a more informal style, but avoid colloquial language.
• Proofread : Ensure your acknowledgements are free of spelling and grammar errors.
• Be Genuine and Sincere : The acknowledgements section should sincerely reflect your gratitude to the people who helped you in your academic journey.

Wrapping up – writing your acknowledgements section

As we reach the conclusion of this informative journey into the art of writing acknowledgements for a thesis or dissertation, it’s clear that this often-overlooked section carries significant emotional and professional weight.

A dissertation acknowledgements page is more than just a list of names; it’s a chance to express genuine gratitude and give due credit to all who have contributed to your academic journey. 

Remember, writing this section of your thesis isn’t an obligatory chore but a genuine opportunity to thank those who supported you.

From the tireless members of your thesis committee to the friends and family who offered emotional support, it’s a platform to acknowledge all the people who helped.

From mentors who provided expert guidance, colleagues who offered invaluable insights, to the institutions that funded your research – everyone deserves a heartfelt note of thanks.

Sample acknowledgements in a thesis often include both professional acknowledgements first, followed by personal ones, ensuring that all contributors are recognized appropriately. Always remember to use full names and titles for professional acknowledgements, and express your gratitude sincerely.

The acknowledgement page isn’t a place for long tales, jokes or anecdotes; instead, keep your acknowledgements concise, specific, and heartfelt.

As shown in the thesis acknowledgement examples, you should reflect on the people and organizations that significantly contributed to your research or writing, whether in a substantial technical manner or through support and guidance throughout the process. 

Studentship that allowed you to pursue your research, faculty who guided your studies, even friends who provided distractions when they were most needed – all these contributors deserve your thanks. Remember, it’s okay to use their first names for those who’ve been part of your personal journey, but for professional acknowledgments, full names and titles are recommended. 

As a PhD student, your acknowledgements should reflect your journey – the struggles, the triumphs, and most importantly, the people who have helped you along the way. Whether you include a list of names in alphabetical order, or you decide to group people or organizations, remember to be genuine, concise, and respectful. 

Whether it’s a thesis dedication to a mentor, expressing gratitude to your parents, thanking your friends for their love and encouragement, or even including certain political aspects that influenced your research, the acknowledgments section is yours to personalize. 

Writing a thesis or dissertation is a monumental task, and the people who support you through it are worth acknowledging. Keep this guide in mind when you write your thesis acknowledgements, and don’t forget to thank those who’ve been there for you – for in the journey of research and writing, no one truly walks alone. 

The last sentence may be a heartfelt statement, “I would like to express my gratitude to all those who walked with me throughout my research journey – your support was my strength, and this achievement is as much yours as it is mine.”

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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How to write acknowledgments for a dissertation, published by steve tippins on april 23, 2020 april 23, 2020.

Last Updated on: 2nd February 2024, 05:46 am

If you are wondering how to write your dissertation acknowledgments, that means you are basically finished. Congratulations! You have done the hard work and are just putting the finishing touches on your masterpiece and deciding who to thank.

Seriously though, deciding whom to acknowledge and how to do it is important.

How to Write Dissertation Acknowledgements

There are a few things to keep in mind when writing your dissertation acknowledgements:

• Know your school’s requirements
• Thank the right people from your institution
• Thank the right people from your personal life
• Add a touch of humor (when appropriate)
• Keep it the appropriate length

Jump to: Dissertation Acknowledgements Example

Know Your School’s Requirements

The first thing to do is check with your university to see if there are any requirements for or limitations on what to write in the acknowledgments for your dissertation. Some schools have page or word limits. 

Others may limit the types of things that you can say, but for the most part I have seen few limitations. Universities recognize that it takes a village, so to speak, and they want to give you ample opportunity to recognize those who’ve played a part in your success.

Know Whom to Thank

Finishing a dissertation is a celebration. Go ahead and tell those who are meaningful that you appreciate them. 

It is generally best to start with the most formal relationships and move from there to the personal. Keep in mind that there is a certain political aspect to your list of acknowledgements, so be careful to avoid leaving out anyone at your institution who made a contribution. These are some of the people to consider thanking as a courtesy:

• Committee members
• Supervisors
• Librarians (generalists and specialists)
• Other academics
• Professional colleagues
• Classmates who contributed in some way
• Research participants

The acknowledgement section of your dissertation is also a great place to thank those in your personal life who contributed to your ability to go to school and take the time to write this tome. These can include:

• Past teachers
• Family — parents, spouses, children, extended family members
• If you are religious, thanking God (using whatever name is appropriate to your religion) is acceptable as well
• Pets (I saw a student thank her cat for keeping her company during the many long nights of writing in her office)

I once had someone ask about thanking a therapist. This is fine, but I would suggest asking their permission first.

Should I Add Humor in my Dissertation Acknowledgements?

Dissertations can be somewhat dry, so adding a little bit of humor may make it more fun for both you and the reader — and a degree of humor is appropriate in the acknowledgements section. I once read an acknowledgement that said, “And now that I will have time to tend to relationships, I want to thank my three unborn children for being patient.” 

Another student recounted a cute family story in one sentence that captured the sacrifices his family made to support him.

With regard to humor, remember to maintain a level of professionalism and avoid straying too far into the weeds. Avoid critical (including self-critical) humor or presenting anyone in a bad light. Remember that prospective employers will likely be perusing this document.

Dissertation Acknowledgements Length

I have never seen an acknowledgement section go beyond one page. Keep it to those who really helped you through the process.

Sample Dissertation Acknowledgement 

The best way to learn how to write acknowledgements for a dissertation is by reading the acknowledgements section in dissertations previously published by your institution. However, to help you get started, here is an example of an acknowledgement for a dissertation.

Acknowledgements

There are many who helped me along the way on this journey. I want to take a moment to thank them.

First, I wish to thank my dissertation committee . Without their guidance, I would not have made it. Dr. Betty Rubble and Dr. Colin Slate served as wise committee members, and Dr. Barney Rubble, my Chair, went above and beyond to help me reach my goal.

To my friends, my parents, and my siblings: you put up with me being distracted and missing many events. I am forever grateful for your patience and understanding. I hope to have time now to reconnect with each of you.

Finally, to my wife, Charlotte, and my daughter, Jane: your love and understanding helped me through the dark times. Without you believing in me, I never would have made it. It is time to celebrate; you earned this degree right along with me.

When to Write Dissertation Acknowledgements

I’ve seen a surprising number of students turn in drafts of their proposals with the acknowledgements section already written. I suppose the thinking goes, “the more sections I complete now, the less I’ll have to do later.” And it must be tempting to fill out a section that doesn’t require any citations.

While there’s nothing wrong with drafting the acknowledgements section ahead of time, it’s best to keep it saved separately from the draft of your proposal. Acknowledgements are supposed to be written retroactively, and your Chair and committee members may find it strange to be thanked before they’ve finished the work of guiding you through the dissertation process. 

How to Write Dissertation Acknowledgements: Summary

The acknowledgement section of your dissertation is the least controlled area of the document. There are no special headings needed or word counts. I suggest you take your time and really think about those who helped you complete this journey and give them the thanks they deserve.

You can give them a card or take them out to dinner, and that’s a great idea. But an acknowledgement in your dissertation is a permanent reminder and an announcement to the wider world that these people really made a difference in your life and your future. Some proud parents have framed their child’s acknowledgement page! Try to make yours worthy of framing. 

And remember, though this is your opportunity to thank others, the way that you do so (and the care you put into it) is a reflection of who you are. As much as you might be tired of writing, it’s worth putting genuine effort into this section, as it will speak to everyone who reads it about who you are as a person.

Wondering what’s next after you have your PhD? As a PhD coach, I help recent graduates reach their goals , whether that’s landing their dream job at a university, diving into research, creating your own business, or beginning a career outside of academia.

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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How to write acknowledgements for a thesis

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What is an acknowledgement and what is its purpose.

The acknowledgement section is one of the sections of a bachelor’s or master’s thesis, dissertation, research paper, etc. destined to show your appreciation of the persons who took part in your research, contributed to your project, or provided any kind of support. In other words, this section is a way for the author to say a thank you to all those whose contribution they recognise as important.

How to write the acknowledgement section for a PhD thesis or dissertation

We are going to provide the basic guidelines below but please make sure to review the style guide of your university or department, as each institution might have some specific requirements as regards the contents and/or formatting of the acknowledgement section in your thesis.

So, here are several key recommendations for writing the acknowledgement section.

Whom to thank in the acknowledgement

This is up to you to decide whom to acknowledge. Select those persons who indeed contributed to your research or helped you perform your duties. In general, there are two main groups of persons to consider: professionals and personal acquaintances.

Professional acknowledgements

You can say a thank you to your:

• Thesis supervisor.
• Thesis opponents.
• Co-authors of your scientific papers.
• Research participants.
• Colleagues.
• Companies providing funding.
• Any other individuals or entities who anyhow contributed to the effective process of writing the dissertation.

Acknowledging the contribution of professionals is important from the perspective of academic integrity but also in terms of scientific ethics.

When addressing professionals, make sure to write their names in full and include their titles (e.g. associate professor at the Department…, PhD , etc.). This is important for identifying the contributors unequivocally. At the same time, it also makes your research look more credible and professional.

Personal acknowledgements

These include any persons other than professionals whom you would like to thank, e.g.:

• Parents or relatives (father/mother, grandparents, husband/wife, children, etc.).
• People who inspired or supported you.

Do not include any personal details, except the first name and last name (e.g. avoid giving the age, the place of living, etc.).

Language and style

The acknowledgement section differs from the rest of your PhD thesis, as it does not relate directly to the research, is addressing your readers, and thus can be less formal.

• Keep your language simple. Avoid complex and long phrases. Keep everything simple and straightforward.
• Your writing can be more informal. In the acknowledgement section, you can use more appealing and emotive language. Furthermore, you can use sentences in the first person (while you should use the impersonal or the passive form when presenting the results of your research in the body of your thesis).
• Remain within the academic framework. While the acknowledgement section is more informal, do not push too hard and remain within the framework of academic writing.
• Do not use dotted lists for names. Mention all the persons in sentences, do not present their names as dotted or numbered lists.

Length of the acknowledgement section

Your acknowledgement section should never be too long. As a rule, it should be at most 1 page. Do not try to overextend this section if less is sufficient for thanking your contributors.

Where to put the acknowledgement in the thesis

Most often, your acknowledgement goes after the abstract and before the table of contents or between the declaration and the table of contents. Please check the guidelines of your university or department.

Structure of the acknowledgement section

While it is up to you to choose (remember that your university might also have some guidelines for this), we can generally recommend the following structure for your acknowledgement:

• Brief introduction (one or a few sentences: why you are writing this section and why you need to acknowledge someone).
• Gratitude to your supervisor.
• Recognition of the other professional contributors.
• Recognition of personal supporters.

Thesis acknowledgement examples

Here are a few sample acknowledgements to give you an idea of how you can do it in your thesis.

Sample acknowledgement – supervisors

First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my supervisors who guided, instructed, and motivated me. Your feedback allowed me deepening and refining my research, and the results presented in my thesis would be impossible without your supervision.

Sample acknowledgement – companies and entities

I would like to acknowledge the financial and organisational support provided by Company X. I would also like to thank the Economics Department of University Y for the technical support.

Sample acknowledgement – individuals and relatives

Finally, I express my profound gratitude to my beloved husband James who continuously supported me, sacrificed his time, and always believed in me.

• Write the acknowledgement section in the end – once you have written the body of your thesis and have completed your research. This will allow avoiding redundant work.
• While the acknowledgement section is important, remember that the main part is the body of your thesis. In addition to running an in-depth research and achieve academic results, you also need to reference correctly the sources you have used. This is where Grafiati can help you: use our service to get perfect references, avoid unintentional plagiarism, and cite your sources correctly.

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3 inspiring master’s thesis acknowledgement examples

Writing a thesis acknowledgment is a meaningful milestone, marking the completion of a master’s thesis and the end of a master’s education. Questions about its length, tone, and acceptability commonly arise for many students. To provide inspiration, here are three concise master’s thesis acknowledgment examples for you to consider as you compose your own.

What to consider when writing a master’s thesis acknowledgement

Master’s thesis acknowledgement example 1: formal and polite, master’s thesis acknowledgement example 2: emotional and personal, master’s thesis acknowledgement example 3: humorous and grateful.

It is very rare not to have an acknowledgment for your thesis, so almost all master’s students will face the challenge of writing one sooner or later if they are working on a thesis. Master thesis acknowledgments typically range between 100-350 words.

While there are usually no fixed rules on how to write it, remember that the acknowledgment is one of the first things that the reader (including potential assessors!) will see, as it is usually placed before the thesis introduction . Thus, you want to make a good impression. While making an acknowledgment personal, keep it somewhat formal.

Furthermore, it is good to thank your supervisor, even if you did not have the best relationship, out of courtesy. You can also express gratitude to family, friends, or even pets, but keep in mind that many theses are publicly available, so do not share anything that you would not want the world to know. Again, maintaining a somewhat formal tone will help with this.

If you want more information, check out this post on general tips that I wrote on how to create a distinct and meaningful acknowledgment section that reflects your gratitude and appreciation.

You may also like: 5 inspiring PhD thesis acknowledgement examples

While some individuals are naturally expressive, openly sharing their private lives even in public, others may not feel as comfortable with such openness—and that’s perfectly acceptable.

Crafting a brief, formal, and polite thesis acknowledgement is a universal practice, ensuring that you convey appreciation without overstepping personal boundaries.

If you are more emotional and personal, and want to include that in your thesis acknowledgement, this is also perfectly fine. Remember, do you, as long as you keep it to an acceptable level of formality.

While maintaining a degree of formality in a thesis acknowledgement, there’s room for a touch of humor to let your personality shine through. Embracing a lighthearted tone doesn’t diminish the significance of the acknowledgment; rather, it can add a personal and engaging touch.

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15+ Samples of Acknowledgement for Thesis and Dissertation

Here, in this blog post, you can find some of the samples of acknoweldgement for thesis written by students all over the world on different topics. These acknowledgement examples are to inspire you and to show how the thesis is written.

These thesis are written for different subjects by different students from different countries. The examples vary in length, style, and substance depending upon the writer.

Acknowledgement Examples for School/College Projects

Most popular Acknowledgement For School/College Projects [7 Examples] Acknowledgement for English Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Project Class 11 and 12 Acknowledgement for Project of Class 8, 9 and 10 By subjects Acknowledgement for Accounting Project [3 Examples] Acknowledgement for Business Studies Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Chemistry Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Computer Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Economics Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for English Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Geography Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for History Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Maths Project for Students [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Physics Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Social Science Project [5 Examples] Others Acknowledgement for Group Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Graduation Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Disaster Management Project [3 Examples] Acknowledgement for Yoga Project [3 Samples]

You can get some idea of how you can write your own acknowledgement with these samples. All of these are samples are one of the best acknowledgement for thesis for masters and PHDs .

For Acknowledgement for your school/college project you can check out out other posts.

All of these samples of acknowledgement is taken from publicly available documents. Some of these samples are from award winning thesis writings. Here are some beautiful thesis acknowledgement from different writers.

Saying thank you with style

How to write an acknowledgement: the complete guide for students, thesis acknowledgement – sample 1.

This sample of acknowledgement is presented by University of Illinois Graduate College. You can check the full thesis sample here.

University: University of Illinois Graduate College Author: Sample Full Thesis Sample: https://grad.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/pdfs/samplethesispages.pdf

Acknowledgement For Thesis – Sample 2

This short acknowledgement is written by Christopher Sipola from University of Edinburgh for his thesis. You can check the full thesis sample here.

University: University of Edinburgh Author: Christopher Sipola Full Thesis Sample: https://project-archive.inf.ed.ac.uk/msc/20172438/msc_proj.pdf

Example of Acknowledgement For Thesis – Sample 3

This short acknowledgement is written by Matthew Brillinger from University of Ottawa for his thesis. You can check the full thesis sample here.

University:   University of Ottawa Author: Matthew Brillinger Full Thesis Sample: https://ruor.uottawa.ca/bitstream/10393/35312/1/Brillinger_Matthew_2016_Thesis.pdf

Acknowledgement Sample For Thesis – Sample 4

University:   Columbia University Author: Julien Saint Reiman Full Thesis Sample: https://history.columbia.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2016/06/Reiman-Julien-Thesis.pdf

Acknowledgement Example For Thesis – Sample 5

University:   University of Ottawa Author: Heather Martin Full Thesis Sample: https://ruor.uottawa.ca/bitstream/10393/32518/3/Martin_Heather_2015_thesis.pdf

Thesis Acknowledgement Example – Sample 6

University: University of Ottawa Author: Guillaume Thekkadath Full Thesis Sample: https://ruor.uottawa.ca/bitstream/10393/36669/3/Thekkadath_Guillaume_2017_thesis.pdf

Thesis Acknowledgement – Sample 7

University: Author: Bruno Buchberger Full Thesis Sample: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0747717105001483

Example of Thesis Acknowledgement – Sample 8

University: Sample Thesis Author: Full Thesis Sample: https://www.cs.siu.edu/files/thesis.pdf

Acknowledgement for Thesis – Sample 9

University: Kathmandu University Author: Sample Thesis Full Thesis Sample: http://old.ku.edu.np/aec/Docs/General%20Guidelines%20for%20Master.pdf

Sample Acknowledgement for Thesis – Sample 10

University: The University of Toledo Author: Sample Thesis Full Thesis Sample: https://etd.ohiolink.edu/apexprod/rws_etd/send_file/send?accession=toledo1333741245&disposition=attachment

Sample Acknowledgement for Thesis – Sample 11

University: IOWA STATE University Author: Varsha Ravichandra Mouli Full Thesis Sample: https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/cs_etd/

Acknowledgement for Thesis – Sample 12

University: IOWA STATE University Author: Full Thesis Sample: https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=8730&context=etd

Acknowledgement Samples for Thesis – Sample 13

University: IOWA STATE University Author: Jenna Mertz Full Thesis Sample: https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=8273&context=etd

Acknowledgement for Thesis – Sample 14

University: Nottingham University Author: Jean D. M. Underwood. Full Thesis Sample: http://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/11711/1/325961.pdf

Acknowledgement Samples – Sample 15

University: The University of Western Ontario Author: Katie Hart Full Thesis Sample: https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=9356&context=etd

Acknowledgement Samples for Thesis – Sample 16

University: Author: Sristi Karmacharya Full Thesis Sample: https://bura.brunel.ac.uk/bitstream/2438/15029/1/FulltextThesis.pdf%20

Thesis Acknowledgement Samples – Sample 17

University: Brunel Business School Brunel University Author: Kinana Ahmad Jammoul Full Thesis Sample: http://107.170.122.150:8080/xmlui/bitstream/handle/123456789/95/Shristi%20Karmacharya%20Thesis%209881.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

You can take inspiration from these acknowledgement samples to write your own acknowledgement for your project. All these acknowledgement samples are taken from publicly available documents and you can use these as a sample to take inspiration for your project acknowledgement.

More on thesis statements

• Can a Thesis Statement Be Two Sentences?
• Can a Thesis Statement Be an Opinion?
• Can a Thesis Statement Be a Question?
• Can a Thesis Statement Be a Quote?

Jump into these quick guides to write a strong thesis statement in no time. We have included tons of good (and bad) examples to show you how to do it right. A simple formula is included in each article to help you create your strong thesis statement with suggested wordings.

• How to Write a Strong Expository Thesis Statement?
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Other Popular Acknowledgement Examples

For work or business Acknowledgement Receipt of Payment [4 Examples] Acknowledging Receipt of Documents: A Quick Guide with Examples Acknowledgement for Presentation [9 Examples] Acknowledgement for Job Offer [3 Examples] Acknowledgement for Business Plan [4 Examples] Acknowledgement for Work Immersion [5 Examples] Acknowledgement of Receipt of Appraisal [3 Examples] Acknowledegment of Debt [5 Examples] Resignation Acknowledgement for Employers [5 Examples]

Academic Acknowledgement for Research Paper [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Internship Report [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Thesis and Dissertation [15 Examples] Acknowledgement for Portfolio [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Case Study [4 Examples] Acknowledgement for Academic Research Paper [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for College/School Assignment [5 Examples] Acknowledgemet to God in Reports [5 Examples]

Others Acknowledgement to Funeral Attendees [5 Examples] Funeral Acknowledgement Templates (for Newspapers and Websites) Common Website Disclaimers to Protect Your Online Business Notary Acknowledgement [5 Examples]

6 thoughts on “15+ Samples of Acknowledgement for Thesis and Dissertation”

Thank you for creating this. It help us a lot, specially students.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR EFFORT

Thank you for sharing. Quite helpful.

A profpund geatitude for your sample research acknowledfement! It is of great help in the success of my thesis study. God bless!

Thanks for sharing valuable information. These article site links are really helpful for us!

Great read, now following!

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• Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples

Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples

Published on 4 May 2022 by Tegan George . Revised on 4 November 2022.

The acknowledgements section is your opportunity to thank those who have helped and supported you personally and professionally during your thesis or dissertation process.

Thesis or dissertation acknowledgements appear between your title page and abstract  and should be no longer than one page.

In your acknowledgements, it’s okay to use a more informal style than is usually permitted in academic writing , as well as first-person pronouns . Acknowledgements are not considered part of the academic work itself, but rather your chance to write something more personal.

To get started, download our step-by-step template in the format of your choice below. We’ve also included sample sentence starters to help you construct your acknowledgments section from scratch.

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Table of contents

Who to thank in your acknowledgements, how to write acknowledgements, acknowledgements section example, acknowledgements dos and don’ts, frequently asked questions.

Generally, there are two main categories of acknowledgements: professional and personal .

A good first step is to check your university’s guidelines, as they may have rules or preferences about the order, phrasing, or layout of acknowledgements. Some institutions prefer that you keep your acknowledgements strictly professional.

Regardless, it’s usually a good idea to place professional acknowledgements first, followed by any personal ones. You can then proceed by ranking who you’d like to thank from most formal to least.

• Chairs, supervisors, or defence committees
• Funding bodies
• Other academics (e.g., colleagues or cohort members)
• Editors or proofreaders
• Librarians, research/laboratory assistants, or study participants
• Family, friends, or pets

Typically, it’s only necessary to mention people who directly supported you during your thesis or dissertation. However, if you feel that someone like a secondary school physics teacher was a great inspiration on the path to your current research, feel free to include them as well.

Professional acknowledgements

It is crucial to avoid overlooking anyone who helped you professionally as you completed your thesis or dissertation. As a rule of thumb, anyone who directly contributed to your research should be mentioned.

A few things to keep in mind include:

• Even if you feel your chair didn’t help you very much, you should still thank them first to avoid looking like you’re snubbing them.
• Be sure to follow academic conventions, using full names with titles where appropriate.
• If several members of a group or organisation assisted you, mention the collective name only.
• Remember the ethical considerations around anonymised data. If you wish to protect someone’s privacy, use only their first name or a generic identifier (such as ‘the interviewees’).

Personal acknowledgements

There is no need to mention every member of your family or friend group. However, if someone was particularly inspiring or supportive, you may wish to mention them specifically. Many people choose to thank parents, partners, children, friends, and even pets, but you can mention anyone who offered moral support or encouragement, or helped you in a tangible or intangible way.

Some students may wish to dedicate their dissertation to a deceased influential person in their personal life. In this case, it’s okay to mention them first, before any professional acknowledgements.

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After you’ve compiled a list of who you’d like to thank, you can then sort your list into rank order. Separate everyone you listed into ‘major thanks’, ‘big thanks’, and ‘minor thanks’ categories.

• ‘Major thanks’ are given to people who your project would be impossible without. These are often predominantly professional acknowledgements, such as your advisor , chair, and committee, as well as any funders.
• ‘Big thanks’ are an in-between, for those who helped you along the way or helped you grow intellectually, such as classmates, peers, or librarians.
• ‘Minor thanks’ can be a catch-all for everyone else, especially those who offered moral support or encouragement. This can include personal acknowledgements, such as parents, partners, children, friends, or even pets.

How to phrase your acknowledgements

To avoid acknowledgements that sound repetitive or dull, consider changing up your phrasing. Here are some examples of common sentence starters you can use for each category.

Note that you do not need to write any sort of conclusion or summary at the end. You can simply end the acknowledgements with your last thank-you.

Here’s an example of how you can combine the different sentences to write your acknowledgements.

A simple construction consists of a sentence starter (in purple highlight ), followed by the person or entity mentioned (in green highlight ), followed by what you’re thanking them for (in yellow highlight .)

Acknowledgements

Words cannot express my gratitude to my professor and chair of my committee for her invaluable patience and feedback. I also could not have undertaken this journey without my defense committee, who generously provided knowledge and expertise. Additionally, this endeavor would not have been possible without the generous support from the MacArthur Foundation, who financed my research .

I am also grateful to my classmates and cohort members, especially my office mates, for their editing help, late-night feedback sessions, and moral support. Thanks should also go to the librarians, research assistants, and study participants from the university, who impacted and inspired me.

Lastly, I would be remiss in not mentioning my family, especially my parents, spouse, and children. Their belief in me has kept my spirits and motivation high during this process. I would also like to thank my cat for all the entertainment and emotional support.

• Write in first-person, professional language
• Thank your professional contacts first
• Include full names, titles, and roles of professional acknowledgements
• Include personal or intangible supporters, like friends, family, or even pets
• Mention funding bodies and what they funded
• Appropriately anonymise or group research participants or non-individual acknowledgments

Don’t:

• Use informal language or slang
• Go over one page in length
• Mention people who had only a peripheral or minor impact on your work

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

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 still should acknowledge them, if only for a very brief thank you. If you do not include your supervisor, it may be seen as a snub.

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.

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

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

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George, T. (2022, November 04). Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved 22 April 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/thesis-dissertation/acknowledgements/

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Real life isn't always going to be perfect or go our way, but the recurring acknowledgement of what is working in our lives can help us not only to survive but surmount our difficulties.

It is easy to acknowledge, but almost impossible to realize for long, that we are mirrors whose brightness, if we are bright, is wholly derived from the sun that shines upon us.

Knowledge is in the end based on acknowledgement.

Acknowledge all of your small victories. They will eventually add up to something great.

If each of my words were a drop of water, you would see through them and glimpse what I feel: gratitude, acknowledgement.

We just have to have visibility. We have to have acknowledgement. We have to have accountability to how we treat one another.

Acknowledgement is the only way to keep love alive.

Leaders don't look for recognition from others, leaders look for others to recognize.

Research has shown over and over again that the more you acknowledge your past successes, the more confident you become in taking on and successfully accomplishing new ones.

A wound that goes unacknowledged and unwept is a wound that cannot heal.

A recent management study revealed that 46% of employees leaving a company do so because they feel underappreciated; 61% said their bosses don't place much importance on them as people, and 88% said they do not receive acknowledgement for the work they do.

The first step on the path to positive change is acknowledgement that change is necessary and possible. Open yourself to the possibility of seeing the world in a new way. What do you have to lose?

You must be prepared to work always without applause.

Our self-acknowledgement, our dedication has to be bigger than our fear.

Sometimes the best coaching advice you can get is simple acknowledgement that theres nothing else you could have done.

The main thing I wanted to say, and thankfully it’s what most people say they get out of the book, is simply an acknowledgement that we do affect each other in ways we can’t predict.

To realize that you were mistaken, is just the acknowledgement , that you are wiser today than you were yesterday.

Acknowledgement: Understanding and compassion for others and their suffering is the next step. Put yourself in the shoes of people who don't have the luxury of being wasteful.

We're waiting for a glance or a word, some acknowledgement that we are here.

With acknowledgement of residues, we can be more easily prepared to grant the unit of science, the overlapping of disciplines, and the total coherence of all facts.

Money isn't what motivates entrepreneurs; it is acknowledgement-a craving for your ideas to be acknowledged.

Nobody does Israel any service by proclaiming its 'right to exist.' Israel's right to exist, like that of the United States, Saudi Arabia and 152 other states, is axiomatic and unreserved. Israel's legitimacy is not suspended in midair awaiting acknowledgement.... There is certainly no other state, big or small, young or old, that would consider mere recognition of its 'right to exist' a favor, or a negotiable concession.

In our current society, it is considered a weakness to be female and a treason to protest this. Highlighting inequality results in aggressive insults and threats, all of which are propped up by the repeated narrative now that women are 'playing the gender card'. And this is the final insult. That of all the unfair things associated with women - the violence and insults, the financial oppression, the very undermining of our worth as human beings - it is the acknowledgement of these inequalities that gives us some kind of unfair advantage over the men who benefit from them.

Anytime you deny the acknowledgement of God you are undermining the entire basis for which our country exists.

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50 Inspirational Quotes For PhD Students: Nurturing Brilliance on Academic Journey

Embark on an inspiring journey of academic pursuit with “50 Inspirational Quotes For PhD Students.” This remarkable compilation of unique and original quotes is a source of motivation, resilience, and wisdom for those undertaking the rigorous path of doctoral studies. Let these powerful words of encouragement uplift your spirits, ignite your passion for research, and remind you of the remarkable impact your work can have on the world.

50 Inspirational Quotes For PhD Students

1. “Embrace the challenges of your PhD journey, for they will shape you into a resilient and brilliant scholar.”

2. “In the realm of knowledge, your PhD is the key to unlocking doors of discovery and leaving a lasting legacy.”

3. “Rise above self-doubt and believe in your ability to make a significant contribution to your field through your PhD research.”

4. “Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Keep pushing forward, and success will be your reward.”

5. “The pursuit of knowledge is a noble endeavor, and your PhD is a testament to your dedication and passion.”

6. “Remember, the greatest discoveries often emerge from the moments when you dare to question the status quo.”

7. “Your PhD thesis is not just a document; it is a reflection of your ability to think critically and innovate.”

8. “The path to a PhD may be long and winding, but the destination will be worth every step.”

9. “Stay curious, for curiosity fuels the fires of discovery and fuels the drive to explore uncharted territories.”

10. “When the going gets tough, remember why you started. Your passion will guide you through the darkest of times.”

11. “In the realm of academia, failure is not the end but a stepping stone towards greater success.”

12. “Embrace collaboration and seek the wisdom of fellow scholars, for the collective mind is a force to be reckoned with.”

13. “The impact of your research will transcend the walls of academia, shaping the world for generations to come.”

14. “Celebrate the small victories along your PhD journey, for they are the building blocks of your ultimate triumph.”

15. “Find joy in the pursuit of knowledge, for it is in the process that you truly discover the beauty of learning.”

16. “Remember that every question holds the potential to unravel mysteries and pave the way for groundbreaking discoveries.”

17. “Perseverance is the key to conquering any obstacle on your path to obtaining your PhD.”

18. “Be open to new ideas and perspectives, for it is through diversity that innovation truly thrives.”

19. “Your PhD is not just an academic achievement; it is a testament to your resilience, dedication, and unwavering spirit.”

20. “Embrace failure as a teacher, for it provides invaluable lessons that will propel you closer to success.”

21. “Dare to challenge existing paradigms and forge your own path of discovery in your PhD research.”

22. “Your unique perspective and insights have the power to reshape the world. Believe in your ability to make a difference.”

23. “Embrace the beauty of the unknown, for it is within those uncharted territories that breakthroughs await.”

24. “Through your PhD journey, you are not just a student but a pioneer of knowledge, carving your own intellectual legacy.”

25. “Never forget the transformative power of your PhD. You have the capacity to change lives and make the world a better place.”

26. “As a PhD student, you possess the ability to turn questions into discoveries and uncertainties into knowledge.”

27. “Seek inspiration from the great minds that came before you, but let your own unique voice shine through in your research.”

28. “Remember, the value of your PhD lies not only in the destination but also in the transformative journey you undertake.”

29. “Embrace the interdisciplinary nature of academia, for it is at the intersections that groundbreaking ideas are born.”

30. “Your passion for learning and dedication to your field will guide you through the challenges and propel you towards success.”

31. “A PhD is not just about acquiring expertise; it’s about pushing the boundaries of human understanding.”

32. “In the face of adversity, let perseverance be your fuel and determination be your guiding light.”

33. “Embrace the moments of uncertainty, for it is within those gaps that profound discoveries and insights emerge.”

34. “Remember that failure is not a reflection of your worth but an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow.”

35. “Your PhD is an opportunity to contribute to the collective wisdom of humanity and leave an indelible mark.”

36. “Never underestimate the power of collaboration and the magic that unfolds when minds come together.”

37. “Celebrate the small victories, for they are stepping stones towards the greater triumphs awaiting you.”

38. “As a PhD student, your thirst for knowledge is a beacon that will guide you towards profound revelations.”

39. “In the pursuit of your PhD, don’t be afraid to challenge convention and explore unconventional paths.”

40. “Every experiment, every failure, and every success brings you one step closer to becoming a true master of your field.”

41. “Let passion be the driving force behind your research, igniting a fire that fuels your intellectual journey.”

42. “Amidst the rigors of academia, remember to nourish your mind, body, and soul. Self-care is essential for success.”

43. “Your PhD journey is a testament to your courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge.”

44. “Keep your eyes open to the beauty of the world, for inspiration can often be found in the most unexpected places.”

45. “Your unique perspective and original ideas have the power to reshape paradigms and challenge the status quo.”

46. “Approach each research question with an open mind, for the true essence of learning lies in embracing diverse viewpoints.”

47. “Believe in the transformative potential of your PhD, as it empowers you to make a difference in the lives of others.”

48. “Let curiosity be your guiding compass, leading you to uncharted territories where groundbreaking discoveries await.”

49. “In your pursuit of knowledge, remember that perseverance, resilience, and adaptability are your most valuable companions.”

50. “Your PhD is not the end but the beginning of a lifelong journey dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of your chosen field.”

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Spanish and Portuguese

Mariana mazer, phd candidate in spanish, 1 of 15 clas graduate students awarded prestigious fellowships to support their research and creative work, marcus bach fellowship .

The Marcus Bach Fellowship , named for the 1942 University of Iowa graduate of the same name, is awarded to graduate students in the humanities to support the completion of an MFA project or doctoral dissertation. The fellowship’s goal is to foster intercultural communication and the understanding of diverse philosophies and religious perspectives.  

Each fellow receives a semester of support including a $10,700 salary, a tuition scholarship for 2 semester hours credit, and more. 

The five recipients for the 2024-25 school year are: 

• Caelainn Barr , Department of English (Nonfiction Writing Program), "Written in the Land"  Barr’s project is a memoir grounded in archival research and interviews that explores the intersection of religion, spirituality in nature and family history. The work is set against the backdrop of conflict in in Northern Ireland. 
• Nathan Chaplin , Department of History, "Surveying the Tropics, Constructing the Heartland: Identify Formation in Nicaragua and the Midwest"  Chaplin’s project investigates the alliances formed between Nicaraguan and Midwestern elites as they attempted to manage public health crises, state policy, and capital investment during the 19th and 20th centuries. 
• Spencer Jones , Department of English (Nonfiction Writing Program), “All Skillful in the Wars”  Jones’s thesis explores political and theological tensions in the lives of radical-revolutionary schoolteachers Harriet Wheeldon and Simone Weil. 
• Xiaoyan Kang , Department of Theatre Arts, “The Words of Ants"  Kang’s thesis takes the form of a play drawing inspiration from the 1983 script Nüshu, or the script of women. Through it, the playwright intends to explore how individual experiences are interpreted to serve a particular narrative. 
• Mariana Mazer , Department of Spanish and Portuguese, “The book as an object and container of multiple stories"  Mazer’s dissertation explores the relationship between the book as a physical object and the narratives it contains, ultimately printing and binding eight copies of the finished thesis. 

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