During the advanced phase of the doctorate, the relationship with the supervisor and the course of supervision meetings can change. As doctoral candidates consolidate their expertise in their own field and build up an independent academic network, the nature of the relationship and expectations on the supervisor may shift towards more independence and personal responsibility for the doctoral candidate. It is advisable to remain in contact with the supervisor, however, as strategic decisions need to be made, especially in the final phase.

Our Checklist for supervision meetings contains a separate section of questions that are particularly relevant for the final phase of the doctorate.