College protocol on HDR student representation

HDR Student Representation is an important component of the teaching and learning quality assurance and quality improvement processes within the ANU College of Science and Medicine. Student Representatives volunteer to provide ongoing constructive feedback on behalf of the student cohort to HDR Conveners and to Associate Directors (HDR) for continuous improvements to the research programs. This will assist Convenors to address issues as they arise and be able to provide a supportive student experience.

Definition of Roles

There are a number of different roles associated with HDR Student Representation as follows:

  • ANUSA Representation
  • University Representation –  Student Consultative Committee convened by the Dean HDR (ODHDR)
  • College Representation – College of Science and Medicine
  • School Representation

Appointment process

  • There should be at least one HDR Student Representative for each Research School in CoSM, for schools with >20 candidates a minimum of two Student Representatives should be appointed.
  • Student Representatives are elected for up to a two-year term only.
  • The selection process should be managed within each school as appropriate, and in consultation with the HDR convener, or appropriate delegate.
  • The HDR convener / HDR Administrator should advertise for Student Representatives annually /biannually with application by Expression of Interest.
  • Where there are more than the required number of nominations, the HDR convener, or appropriate delegate, should consider the diversity of the student cohort when selecting the student representatives (gender, international / domestic etc.).

Terms of reference

Responsibilities / Expectations

  • Provide a point of contact for HDR students seeking information on HDR matters, as appropriate.
  • Be familiar with ANU student support services, such as the Dean of Students and counselling service, and recommend these where appropriate. (see below for details)
  • Find opportunities to meet formally and informally with HDR students to determine current student concerns, and report back on matters of interest to the student cohort.
  • Provide regular feedback on student issues to School Management through the HDR convener and / or HDR administrator.
  • Initiate or provide feedback on proposals to enhance the HDR student experience at the University, College and School levels
  • Where possible, assist the planning, coordination and running of student outreach and social activities.
  • Work collaboratively with other student representatives, and the HDR convener and / or HDR administrator on best practice processes related to HDR matters, and assisting School Executives with developing guidance on student matters.
  • Respect and maintain student anonymity in regards to any issues raised, as requested by the student.
  • Be mindful and respectful of the diversity of perspectives and backgrounds among the HDR student cohort at ANU.

Meeting attendance

  • As appropriate, organise and attend at least one meeting per year for HDR students within the school.
  • Attend school HDR meetings as determined by the HDR Convener.
  • Where available, volunteer to attend other school committees, as requested. (e.g. WHS Committee, International Students Committee etc.)
  • Attend at least one College level meeting per year, as requested.

College / School Support

  • Acknowledge the value of student representation and student representatives (including via these guidelines).
  • Ensure periodic meetings for student representatives to voice feedback, raise student concerns, and propose initiatives at relevant levels (e.g. School and College).
  • Maintain respectful, collegiate, and supportive interactions at these meetings.
  • Act to provide further information or advice to representatives where appropriate.
  • Seek to resolve or elevate issues within ANU where appropriate/required.   

Relevant Policy Documents (for reference as required)

Rules:

  • Research Awards Rule (RAR)

Policy:

Procedure:

  • Higher Degree by Research: Candidature (ANUP_012809)
  • Higher Degree by Research: Candidature Progression (ANUP_012810)
  • Higher Degree by Research: Submission and Examination of Theses (ANUP_012815)
  • Higher Degree by Research: Supervision (ANUP_012813)
  • Higher Degree by Research: Use of Confidential or Restricted Information in Theses (ANUP_000793)
  • Higher Degree by Research: Thesis by Compilation and Thesis by Creative Works (ANUP_003405)
  • Research Training Program Scholarships (ANUP_016008)
  • Student Intellectual Property (ANUP_003604)

Guidelines:

  • Higher Degree by Research: Editing of Theses (ANUP_000407)
  • Higher Degree by Research: Examiners' reports recommendations (ANUP_012807)
  • Higher Degree by Research: University, Candidate and Supervisor Responsibilities (ANUP_012814)

Support network

University:

College:

Approved at

Revised annually/as appropriate

Last updated

2025

Documents