Information for panel members and advisory team

The role of the Chairperson is to facilitate a discussion with the reviewers, candidate, and their advisory team to determine whether the candidate is developing the attributes that are desirable in a graduate of The University of Queensland, as outlined in Higher Degree by Research Graduate Attributes Policy and the UQ Higher Degree by Research Candidate Charter Procedure. Progress Reviews are also important for establishing whether the research project is feasible and of sufficient scope for an Master of Philosophy (MPhil)/ Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree.

The policy and procedures that support Progress Reviews are documented in Higher Degree by Research Candidature Progression Policy.

To serve as a Chair, you must ensure that you:

• are a UQ staff member included on the Principal Advisor Registry
• hold a degree equivalent to or greater than the program being undertaken by the candidate
• are not a current or past member of the candidate’s advisory team.

We also encourage schools to minimise any potential conflicts of interest between chairs or members of the advisory team. Whenever possible, it is best practice to appoint a chair that does not work closely with the candidate or advisory team members. Where practical, you should plan to be available to Chair all three Progress Reviews and the candidate’s oral exam following their thesis submission. 

Please review the video below, which provides an overview of the HDR Progress Review Process at UQ.

If you have any questions about the process or any issues, please contact the relevant DHDR or HLO.