Good supervision is a key factor in PhD students' happiness.
Supervisors who invest in positive mentoring relationships with their PhD candidates also benefit from improved research outcomes.
A global PhD survey conducted by Nature in 2025 found that many students enjoyed their doctoral degree and felt fulfilled by their work.
However, supportive supervision is often an overlooked yet crucial factor in PhD satisfaction.
Supervisors who invest in positive mentoring relationships with their PhD candidates also reap the benefits for their own research.
Author's summary: Good supervision is key to PhD students' happiness and research success.