Conflict resolution
One of the University’s main goals is to make the University of Luxembourg an enjoyable place to work and study. To this end, it has introduced effective conflict mitigation services so that staff and students know who to turn to if they experience an issue in the workplace or during their studies.
There is always the potential for conflict with your supervisor at some stage during your studies, as it is often difficult to strike a balance between the autonomy of the doctoral candidate and the need for assistance and supervision, and the candidate and supervisor may have two quite different perspectives on how things should be done.
In addition, if you have a structural employment contract with the University of Luxembourg, your supervisor may also be your direct line manager. The University of Luxembourg has therefore established a clear framework for conflict resolution during doctoral studies.
If a conflict should arise, please follow the steps below:
- First, contact your Head of Programme or the Head of the Doctoral School.
- If they are unable to help, contact your Faculty Dean.
- If the issue is still not resolved, refer to the Ombudsman for further support.
- At any stage, you can of course contact the Office of Doctoral Studies for guidance.
The University’s Ombuds can help employees and students, and his role differs from that of other people-facing departments at the University. The Ombuds can help employees and students in many ways, by:
- Helping them understand and guiding them through university policies and procedures.
- Offering informal dispute resolution.
- Helping them to resolve conflicts with other individuals at the University and develop stable, supportive and productive professional relationships.
Do not let a conflict worsen