Dissertation Research Progress Evaluation
Following the allocation of a research project, PhD students are required to undertake dissertation research under the supervision and guidance of the Main Advisor and Co-Advisor(s). The student's research progress shall be formally evaluated at the end of each regular semester (Fall and Spring) and, where applicable, the Summer Term.
The Main Advisor, in consultation with the Co-Advisor(s), is responsible for evaluating the student's research progress and submitting a research progress evaluation - Satisfactory (S) or Unsatisfactory (U)- for each evaluation period. The evaluation shall reflect the student's overall research performance during the reporting period and shall take into consideration the student's stage in the doctoral program. Following the successful completion of the Research Proposal Examination (RPE), the Main Advisor shall also take into consideration the feedback and recommendations of the Research Supervisory Committee (RSC) arising from the Dissertation Progress Report (DPR) and the Annual Dissertation Progress Presentation (ADPP), where applicable.
In evaluating the student's research progress, the Main Advisor, in consultation with the Co-Advisor(s), shall take into consideration, but not be limited to, the following:
• Progress toward the approved research objectives and milestones appropriate to the student's current stage in the doctoral program.
• The quality, originality, technical merit, and significance of the research conducted during the evaluation period.
• Demonstrated understanding of the research topic and the relevant scholarly literature.
• Research competence, including analytical ability, problem-solving skills, technical proficiency, and the ability to conduct increasingly independent research appropriate to the student's stage of study.
• Progress in achieving the planned research activities and adherence to the approved research schedule.
• Research productivity, including publications, conference presentations, patents, software, datasets, prototypes, or other scholarly or research outputs, where applicable.
• Initiative, professionalism, commitment, responsiveness to academic guidance, and overall engagement with the research program.
• Compliance with research ethics, laboratory safety, and other regulatory requirements, where applicable.
• The likelihood of successfully completing the dissertation within the prescribed period of study.
• Any other factors that may significantly affect the student's research progress or the timely completion of the doctoral program.
An evaluation of Satisfactory (S) indicates that the student is making satisfactory progress toward the successful completion of the doctoral degree and is meeting the expectations appropriate to the student's stage in the program. An Unsatisfactory (U) evaluation indicates that the student's research progress is unsatisfactory and that significant deficiencies have been identified, requiring corrective action.
Research progress evaluations shall be recorded in the student's academic record and shall be considered when determining the student's academic standing, continued enrollment, scholarship eligibility, and compliance with the University's academic regulations. The consequences of receiving an Unsatisfactory (U) research progress evaluation shall be governed by the University's Academic Standing regulations.