An Associate Supervisor (End-user) is a real-world expert who brings industry insight to the supervision of a HDR candidate. It's a mutually beneficial exchange, where candidates gain practical experience, and partners tap into fresh ideas and innovation. Curious how it works? Read on to explore the benefits.

In today's research landscape, bridging the gap between academia and real-world application is more important than ever. That's where the role of the Associate Supervisor (End-user) comes in. Drawn from industry, government, NGOs, and community organisations, these supervisors bring practical insight, applied expertise, and real-world relevance to HDR projects, complementing the academic guidance provided by the ACU Principal Supervisor and Co-Supervisor. As representatives of the research's intended beneficiaries, they help ensure that projects are not only academically rigorous but also aligned with the needs of society, industry, and policy.

For HDR candidates, this means access to valuable industry or community perspectives, enhancing the relevance, impact, and focus of their research.

For industry partners, it offers a unique opportunity to collaborate on meaningful research, shape emerging talent, and gain early access to innovative ideas and solutions tailored to their sector.

It's not just supervision - it's a strategic partnership

Mutual knowledge exchange

HDR candidates gain practical insights and access to real-world challenges. Industry partners benefit from cutting-edge academic research and fresh perspectives.

Skill and talent development

HDR candidates develop industry-relevant skills and professional networks. Industry partners help shape and identify future talent aligned with their workforce needs.

Enhanced research impact

HDR candidates ensure their work is relevant and applicable beyond academia. Industry partners receive research outcomes tailored to their specific needs and contexts.

Infrastructure sharing

HDR candidates access industry tools, data, and facilities. Industry partners leverage university expertise and research infrastructure.

Frequently asked questions

An Associate Supervisor (End-user) is someone from outside the higher education sector who brings practical, industry, community, or government-based expertise to support a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidate. They contribute applied knowledge and real-world perspectives to the research project.

Associate Supervisor (End-user) examples:

  • A person with lived experience.
  • A member of the leadership team of a primary or secondary school, e.g., a principal.
  • A health practitioner, e.g., a dietician, nurse or physiotherapist.
  • A specialist from an advocacy or charitable organisation, e.g., a policy manager.
  • A specialist from a government or government organisation, e.g., the head of a regulatory body.
  • A specialist from a business, e.g., an accountant or lawyer.

An end-user does not include other higher education providers or any organisation affiliated with, controlled by, or a subsidiary of a higher education provider (such as a Medical Research Institute). Individuals employed by these types of organisations—whether on a full-time, part-time, or honorary basis—are not eligible to serve as an Associate Supervisor (End-user). Instead, they should be considered for inclusion on a HDR candidate’s supervisory panel under the category of Associate Supervisor.

The Principal Supervisor will determine the extent of the Associate Supervisor’s (End-user) involvement. However, the role may encompass the following key contributions:

  • Mentorship: Providing guidance and encouragement to support the candidate’s professional growth and career aspirations.
  • Professional development: Assisting the candidate in developing skills and capabilities that broaden their future career opportunities.
  • Networking: Facilitating access to end-user-related experiences, including invitations to industry events, professional meetings, placements, and networking opportunities.
  • Resource access: Supporting the candidate in obtaining access to research resources, facilities, and/or equipment within the end-user’s organisation or community.

An Associate Supervisor (End-user) is not required to hold academic qualifications; however, they should possess expertise in the HDR candidate’s research area.

No, the role is voluntary. It is grounded in a shared commitment to reciprocity, where the end-user, ACU, and the HDR candidate all benefit from the collaboration.

The appointment of an Associate Supervisor (End-user) is recommended by the Principal Supervisor, in consultation with the Co-supervisor and the HDR candidate, and is subject to approval by the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research. While this appointment can occur at any stage of the candidate’s research journey, involving an Associate Supervisor (End-user) at the time of admission offers a key advantage: it allows the end-user to contribute to shaping the research question, enhancing the relevance and potential impact of the research within industry or community settings.

How to apply

To express interest in becoming an Associate Supervisor (End-user) or to find out more, please contact the Graduate Research School. Research candidates interested in appointing an Associate Supervisor (End-user) to their supervisory panel should liaise with their Principal Supervisor.

grs.partnerships@acu.edu.au

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