PhD Competence Model
To develop your academic and transferable skills, the GSLS offers a wide variety of courses that we classify according to the PhD Competence Model. This model contains a set of core competencies every PhD candidate should have. Next to academic skills, it emphasises personal development and career orientation. To help you identify what skills and competencies you may want to develop or improve, we encourage you to take a self-assessment of competence development. This tool provides you with the possibility of monitoring your development during your PhD journey. We advise you to do this yearly, as part of your preparation for your annual PhD progress meetings.
The PhD programme offers education in discipline-relevant research skills and knowledge, while the PhD Course Centre offers programme-overarching courses tailored to developing other academic and transferable competencies. Your PhD programme coordinator can give you information about the training that the particular programme offers. Have a look at the website of the PhD Course Centre to find up-to-date education programmes.
Competence areas of the PhD Competence Model
Research Skills and Knowledge Researchers are able to formulate clear research questions and hypotheses, and design solid research protocols. Researchers demonstrate in-depth knowledge of their field, the challenges that lie ahead and a broad scientific interest outside their specific research area.
Responsible Conduct of Science Researchers demonstrate the ability to make sound ethical and legal choices based on knowledge of accepted professional research practices, relevant policies and guidelines. Researchers should be aware of the resources available, should ethical or integrity concerns arise.
Teaching Researchers are able to define the learning outcomes for the target group as well as adequately and suitable convey the material in a motivational manner.
Communication Researchers demonstrate interpersonal, written, verbal, listening and non-verbal communication skills enabling them to effectively and appropriately communicate facts, ideas or opinions to colleagues, members of public and media.
Personal Effectiveness Researchers are able to adapt their personal qualities and behaviours to achieve improved results.
Professional Development Researchers are able to improve their transferable skills to further their career prospects.
Leadership and Management Researchers are equipped to manage and develop project ideas as well as facilitate effective team work including problem solving skills. Researchers are able to mentor others (e.g. students).