On occasion, your relationship with a supervisor may become strained and untenable; that’s when you use this form. The Change of Supervisor Form is a formal document used in situations where the relationship between a student and a supervisor becomes strained or untenable during the MPhil or PhD programme at UTT. This guideline provides an overview of the purpose and components of the Change of Supervisor Form.

Purpose of the Change of Supervisor Form:

1. Formal Request: Initiates a formal request for a change in your supervisor during the course of your MPhil or PhD programme.
2. Conflict Resolution: Addresses issues or conflicts that have arisen between you and your current supervisor.
3. Clarity in Transition: Facilitates a clear transition process to ensure continuity in your research.

Components of the Change of Supervisor Form:

1. Student Information:
   • Include your name, student ID, programme (MPhil/PhD), and contact details.
2. Current Supervisor Information:
   • Clearly state the name, designation, and contact details of your current supervisor.
   • Highlight the reasons for the change, focusing on conflicts or issues that hinder effective supervision.
3. Proposed Supervisor Information:
   • Provide details of the proposed new supervisor, including name, designation, and contact details.
   • Justify the selection of the proposed supervisor.
4. Rationale for Change:
   • Clearly outline the reasons for the change, emphasising any conflicts, communication issues, or other challenges.
5. Signatures:
   • Obtain signatures from both you and your current supervisor, indicating acknowledgment and agreement with the change.

Submission and Approval:

1. Submission:
   • Submit the completed Change of Supervisor Form to the relevant academic unit for review.
2. Approval Process:
   • The academic unit will review the request and assess the validity of the reasons for the change.
   • Any necessary adjustments or recommendations will be communicated to you.

Significance of the Change of Supervisor Form:

1. Conflict Resolution: Provides a formal mechanism for addressing conflicts or challenges with the current supervisor.
2. Clear Transition: Facilitates a smooth transition to a new supervisor, ensuring continuity in research activities.
3. Communication: Encourages open communication between you, your current supervisor, and the proposed new supervisor.

The Change of Supervisor Form is an important document designed to address challenges in the supervisor-student relationship. Utilise this form when conflicts or issues arise to ensure that the transition to a new supervisor is well-coordinated to support the continuation of your research. Regular communication with academic units is essential throughout this process.