Many postgraduate researchers at the start of their degree are unsure what to expect from their supervisor and often find it hard to describe the type of role they imagine their supervisor playing. In fact, your supervisor won't just have one role, they will have many:

• mentor
• trainer
• supporter
• critic
• fellow researcher
• and more

It is important is that you understand the responsibilities your supervisor so that you have clear expectations as to what your supervisor is - and isn't - here for. That understanding will provide you with a foundation for building an effective working relationship with your supervisor.