Begin With the Programme’s Instructions
Check whether the programme asks you to identify a supervisor before applying. An advertised project may already name one. A proposal-led route may ask you to discuss your idea and supervision before submission. Follow the department’s own instructions.
Make a Specific Connection
Edinburgh Business School recommends contacting potential supervisors with a CV and draft proposal, explaining why their expertise fits and mentioning work you have read. This is a school-specific example, not a universal requirement. Use relevant publications to sharpen your question.
Allow Time and Keep Decisions Separate
Edinburgh Business School advises allowing three to four weeks for a response before following up. A helpful conversation may lead to proposal revisions; it does not establish admission or funding. Continue checking the formal application route and separate funding deadlines.
Your Next-Step Checklist
- Read the programme’s supervision and application instructions.
- Identify a relevant recent publication.
- Explain one focused research question and why the researcher fits.
- Prepare the requested CV and proposal.
- Track funding and admissions separately.
Official Reading
Read the official school, university, funder or government sources below.
Edinburgh Business School: Find a Supervisor