Our Approach to Mentorship
Mentorship mirrors undergraduate academic advising, supporting students from research question to completed academic output.

Key Features of OIIR Mentorship
Personalised Support: Mentors tailor guidance to each student’s interests and academic goals.
Structured Feedback: Regular, detailed evaluations on research progress, analysis, and writing.
Academic Integrity: Mentors model rigorous research ethics, critical source evaluation, and proper citation.
Encouraging Independence: Scholars are guided toward intellectual autonomy, preparing them for future college study.
Academic Excellence
All OIIR mentors hold or are completing advanced degrees in their fields. Our mentor network includes
Professors and lecturers teaching at globally respected universities
Post-Doctoral Researchers Conducting cutting-edge work in their disciplines
Doctoral Candidates and exceptional Masters Graduates actively engaged in research and experienced in developing the next generation of researchers.
How Mentors Are Chosen
To maintain the highest academic standards, IIR follows a structured selection process for all mentors.
Application and Vetting
Academic credentials and research reviewed.
Interview
Teaching ability and alignment with OIIR’s values.
Reference Checks
Confirming teaching and supervision experience.
Training
Accepted mentors complete orientation and training before teaching.
A Rigorous
Academic Process
Each fellow is matched one-to-one with an academic mentor aligned to their subject interests, providing expert guidance throughout their research project.
Academic Team

Fany Kuzmova
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School of Architecture, Yale University
Specialisms: Urban design, participatory planning, community engagement in architecture

Aakashi Bhatt

DPhil in Medicine, University of Oxford
Specialisms: Pediatric Oncology, Robotic Surgery, and Fetal Surgery.

Michael Krenz

PhD in Architectural History University of Oxford
Specialisms: Architectural History, Film Studies, Design.

How Mentors Support Scholars
Mentors meet regularly with students throughout the programs, providing :
Research Planning
Mentors support students in developing focused research questions and clear methodologies.
Skill Development
One-to-one supervision develops analytical thinking, academic writing, and independent research skills.
Critical Review
Mentors provide structured feedback to strengthen clarity, coherence, and academic rigour.
Presentation Preparation
Mentors support students in preparing clear, confident research presentations.
What Scholars Can Expect
Professional, respectful engagement from experienced academics.
Constructive, honest feedback focused on growth.
Consistency in mentorship, with clear expectations set at the start of the programme.
A challenging but supportive environment designed to build intellectual independence.

Commitment to Academic Integrity

Join Our Mentor Network
Explore Our Programmes
Learn more about the Oxford IIR Fellowships to see how our mentors guide students through challenging and rewarding research experiences.
