CONFERENCEThe supervisor of the doctoral thesis is the main ally throughout your doctoral studies. Before admission, you must choose a thesis supervisor (and, if necessary, a co-supervisor) in accordance with your research field and begin discussions about possible cooperation.
1. Find a research direction that suits you!
Start by exploring the websites of the UL faculties and institutes to learn about researchers’ specialisations and publications. Information can also be found in the LCS expert database at sciencelatvia.gov.lv (select advanced search and then the selection field "Name of Scientific Institution" and enter "University of Latvia") or contact the director of the relevant doctoral programme.
If you plan to continue researching a topic that you already worked on during your Master's studies, ask your Master's thesis supervisor about the possibilities of conducting in-depth research on the topic at the doctoral level.
2. Ask yourself: who would I like to work with for 3-4 years?
Your doctoral thesis supervisor is not just a formal figure – he or she will be your mentor, advisor, and sometimes even your critic. It is important that your research interests and work style are compatible.
3. Make contact!
Approach your chosen supervisor by email or in person. Briefly describe your research idea and ask for an opportunity to discuss the proposed thesis topic and application.
If your topic is interdisciplinary, you may also arrange for a co-supervisor or consultant (possibly from another institution or government agency).
4. Consult on the application for the thesis topic!
The admission documents must also include an application for the thesis topic. We invite you to develop it in consultation with a potential supervisor, who will provide an opinion on the relevance of the topic and the feasibility of the research.