Teaching
There is no formal teaching for the course as assessment is by research only. PhD students are, however, encouraged to attend any lectures, seminars or talks which may be relevant to their area of research.
The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice which sets out the University’s expectations regarding supervision. Students will discuss this with their supervisor at the beginning of their first year.
| One to one supervision |
Students receive one-to-one supervision on their research project; these are scheduled as and when required and feasible. Students are encouraged to attend relevant seminars, and participate in post-seminar informal discussions with academic staff and other students. |
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| Seminars & classes |
The MPhil in Biological Anthropological Science does not have a teaching component in the form of lectures or seminars. However, students are strongly encouraged to attend the MPhil Research Skills seminars, and the Biological Anthropology seminar series that take place once a week during term, and any other seminars relevant to their study. |
| Lectures |
None required but PhD students are free to attend any lectures in the Department. |
| Practicals |
PhD students are encouraged to attend any practicals associated with courses that would enhance their methodological and technical skills. Students should approach the relevant course coordinator for permission, as these sessions may have restricted-size classes. |
| Small group teaching |
Students may be expected to attend small-group discussion sessions and seminars organised by their research group, and to present updates and preliminary results of their work. |
| Journal clubs |
Journal clubs are normally student-driven and organised around particular interest groups. Students are encouraged to organise them, and to invite other students and researchers to participate. |
| Posters and Presentations |
Students are expected to present updates and preliminary results of their work as part of seminar series and research group meetings. |
| Taught/Research Balance |
Predominantly Research
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Placements
Any placements would be determined on an individual basis.
Feedback
Students can expect to receive regular feedback on the progress of their thesis from their supervisor(s), as well as receiving termly online progress reports. Students are invited to group meetings throughout the year to discuss progress and concerns in order to address issues as and when they arise.
Assessment
Thesis / Dissertation
A PhD thesis in Biological Anthropology is an extended piece of independent, original research, and must represent a significant contribution to knowledge. The thesis topic is normally proposed by the student and then decided between the student and the supervisor, who will advise on aspects of methodology and analysis, as well as with the written presentation.
The PhD is assessed via a PhD thesis and a subsequent viva. Thesis word limits and requirements are set by individual Degree Committees. Further information can be found here: http://www.cambridgestudents.cam.ac.uk/exams/students/postgraduate-exam-information/writing-submitting-and-examination/phd-edd-msc-mlitt/word-limits
Other
PhD students at Cambridge are not initially registered as candidates for the PhD degree; they have to complete a period of probation (one year, or two years for part-time students). During this period, academic progress is monitored as students develop their projects and test their methodology. A research proposal and first year paper are submitted part way through this period and are assessed by internal review and a viva prior to registration at the end of the academic year. Subsequent yearly updates are then required in order to monitor progress. The objective here is formative, aiming to assure all concerned that the PhD project is on track and to put adjustments in place where necessary.