Orientation and induction

Welcome to Graduate Research at the University of Melbourne!

At Melbourne we’re here to support you throughout your candidature and to help you make the best start possible.

Make a successful start to candidature by...

Attending Orientation

The Graduate Researchers’ Orientation welcomes PhD, Doctorate, Masters by Research and MPhil candidates who are new to the University of Melbourne or a graduate research degree.

Visit the Researcher Development Portal below to learn more about the orientation program and explore career development opportunities designed for you. Registration is open now for the 15 March 2023  Orientation.

Visit the GR Orientation page

Want to get oriented before the next Orientation session? You can access recordings of past sessions in the Grad Space community in the Learning Management System.


Creating and providing a Unique Student Identifier (USI)

If you have reached this stage and you haven’t created and/or provided your Unique Student Identifier (USI) to the University of Melbourne, please visit the Unique Student Identifier student page for information on the steps to create and submit your USI.


Joining the induction in your graduate school or department

In addition to orientation, you must attend an induction arranged by your graduate school or department  . The induction should cover:

  • An introduction to your local workspace, facilities, support team and colleagues
  • Information about relevant procedures, health and safety practices and training and research practices
  • Research and professional development opportunities available to you
  • Opportunities to get involved in your academic community.

Completing the Supervisory Agreement

The Supervisory Agreement outlines expectations for graduate researchers and their supervisors. This is a great opportunity for you to discuss and agree on supervision arrangements with your supervisors. The agreement should be downloaded and completed with your supervisors. Once the agreement is complete, it must be attached to your Commencement Form, that is emailed to you, within the first six months of candidature. You should then review your supervisory agreement as needed throughout your candidature. Your progress review meetings might be a good time to do this.


Completing the foundational safety and researcher training activities

Familiarising yourself with these graduate research policies and guidelines


Learning how to manage your candidature and develop your skills


Finding friends and staying well