Postgraduate Orientation
All students are required to complete a checklist of orientation procedures within one month of commencing their candidature. They also need to be familiar with the contents of a number of important University Web Sites.
Orientation of students in the School of Molecular Sciences is undertaken by the Supervisor, the Postgraduate Coordinator and the Executive Officer, Technical and IT services.
Students who are continuing on from an Honours year placement in the same laboratory do not need as extensive orientation as new students. However, all students are introduced to the postgraduate coordinator in the respective Department and provided with a copy of the Guidelines for Postgraduate Students and Supervisors.
If needed, the Supervisor introduces the student to other members of the laboratory and offers them a tour of the Department and major facilities and introductions to all relevant personnel. The supervisor, or a delegated laboratory member, explains the general laboratory procedures and regulations.
A general introduction to work practices in the School and information about access to computer resources are organised through the Executive Officer, Technical and IT services or delegated person.
Lectures describing the use of the major items of equipment in the Departments within the School are offered at the beginning of each year for new research students. New students are encouraged to attend these lectures.
Students are required to abide by the advice on the conduct of their activities in the department as outlined in the Laboratory Manual of the Department. All new members of the Department must undergo Occupation Health and Safety Induction procedures as outlined by their supervisors and other trained personnel. Lectures on Chemical and Radiation Hazard and other OH&S issues are offered by members of the different departments and by the University. Students are encouraged to attend all relevant courses.
Within three months after the commencement of candidature, it is recommended that the student, in consultation with the supervisor(s), draw up a project plan and time-table. This plan should include a defined set of goals and a time-table for achieving these goals, as well as a list of dates for meetings to monitor the student's progress. A copy of the plan should be given to the Postgraduate Coordinator or the Head of Department.