Faculty of Medicine Enhances Doctoral Supervision with International Training

On November 21–22, the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Tartu hosted a transformative Research Supervisor Support and Development Programme (RSSD), led by internationally renowned expert Dr. Janet Carton. 

The training aimed to equip supervisors with practical tools and strategies to enhance doctoral supervision. Key topics included conflict resolution, promoting ethical research practices, and preparing doctoral candidates for diverse career opportunities. Special emphasis was placed on adapting supervision methods to highlight originality and impact in research, going beyond traditional publication metrics. 

Associate Professor of Molecular Physiology and event organizer, Kattri-Liis Eskla, noted that the two-day training addressed the essential qualities of successful doctoral candidates, the application of practical supervision tools, and the importance of maintaining professional boundaries. The first day focused on the fundamentals of supervision, including effective communication, providing constructive feedback, and fostering ethical research. The second day tackled more advanced topics such as maintaining motivation and resolving conflicts, offering supervisors practical solutions and strategies. 

Participants praised the training for its comprehensive content and engaging format. "Suggestions for future sessions included workshops on supervising international students and developing leadership skills," said Eskla. "The Faculty of Medicine plans to make this training an annual tradition and expand its scope to address evolving needs in doctoral education." 

The training, supported by the Estonian Doctoral School, brought together supervisors from the University of Tartu, Tallinn University of Technology, and Estonian University of Life Sciences. The event was funded by the project "University Cooperation for Advancing Doctoral Studies" (2021-2027.4.04.24-0003), co-financed by the European Union.