Training of PhD candidates
- The training of the PhD candidates falls under the Dean of PhD Studies. The implementation of the training is coordinated by the policy staff member for research. The Dean of PhD Studies monitors the progress of the research and gives advice on the continuation of the appointment, or on any extension which may be applicable. If necessary, he discusses the possibilities with the supervisor (almost always a fellow of the Institute).
The PhD candidate training is a two-phase programme leading to qualification as an independent academic researcher. The rights and obligations of every PhD candidate and of the supervisors are defined in a training and supervision plan, in line with the University CAO (collective employment agreement).
The training comprises a general (collective) and an individual component, but is primarily characterised by individually focused work within a fixed structure.
- The general component is intended for all PhD candidates and comprises a training in practical skills of a general academic nature (such as writing academic texts, presenting research findings), and more substantive legal courses (such as comparative law and legal methodology). The differentiated element of the training is individually focused: each PhD candidate is offered the opportunity to focus on subjects which are related to the subject of the dissertation. The programme is continuously evaluated and modified; an individually tailored range of courses appears to be most appreciated by the PhD candidates.
- The Institute focuses considerable attention on the conducting of academic debate by PhD candidates, and debates are regularly organised in which they take part. Every three weeks one of the PhD candidates gives a lecture on his or her research, followed by a debate on the subject. In so-called ‘PhD clubs’ the PhD candidates are introduced to one another’s research and comment on one another’s papers. In addition, they take part in a project club, supervised by the programme coordinator, in which subjects related to the programme are addressed.
- Regular discussions are held with the group of PhD candidates. Once or twice a year all PhD candidates meet with the Dean of PhD Studies to exchange views on all matters relating to obtaining a doctorate. There is also an informal sounding board of PhD candidates with which the management of the Institute meets on a more frequent basis.
- And finally, one of the PhD candidates attends the meetings of the research management of the Institute when issues relating to PhD policy and PhD candidates are being discussed.
5/2/2007
