Our Approach to Mentorship
At Oxford IIR, mentorship is designed to mirror the academic advising students receive in undergraduate research settings. Each mentor supports students in developing a research question, planning and conducting inquiry, refining arguments, and producing both written and applied outputs. Mentors challenge fellows to think critically, explore interdisciplinary connections, and apply evidence-based reasoning.
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
At the Institute of Interdisciplinary Research, each applicant is carefully matched with a mentor whose academic expertise aligns with their subject interests and goals. For all of our fellowships, this ensures that every fellow receives expert guidance throughout their independent research project. Participants work one-to-one with their mentor to explore key questions and develop the intellectual skills that form the foundation of academic inquiry.
Meet Our Mentors
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 guide scholars in shaping focused research questions and clear methodologies, helping them situate their inquiry within relevant academic frameworks.
Skill Development
Through one-to-one supervision, scholars refine analytical thinking, academic writing, and research techniques essential for independent scholarly work.
Critical Review
Mentors provide structured feedback on written drafts, strengthening clarity, coherence, and the academic rigour of each scholar’s work.
Presentation Preparation
Before project completion, mentors support scholars in preparing polished, well-structured presentations that communicate their research with confidence.
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.