Working Hours & Holidays

Research students are often concerned at the lack of clear guidance concerning working hours and holiday entitlement, since neither is governed by regulation. The differing requirements of disciplines and types of research will, to a large extent, determine the length of the working day/week appropriate for your work. This is likely to vary throughout your PhD as you go through the different stages of literature reviews, experimental work and thesis preparation. You should, in the main, be guided by your supervisor and department.

You are entitled to up to 30 days of holiday per year (not including bank holidays). It is advised you discuss any holiday plans with your supervisor to ensure you are both aware of each other's holiday plans and availability throughout the year.

You can fill this form in alongside talking to your supervisor to apply for annual leave.

Students should not apply for a leave of absence to cover a period of annual leave.