Can I Have a PhD Advisor from Another University?
Seeking a PhD advisor from another university can indeed seem challenging, especially if they are located in a different country. The traditional model often requires advisors to be physically and contractually associated with the same institution as the student. However, there are ways to make cross-university supervision a reality.

Understanding the Challenges

Most universities have strict policies about supervising PhD students, with advisors typically expected to be based within the institution where the student is enrolled. Additionally, there are often regulatory and financial obstacles, such as the advisor not being compensated for their supervisory duties. Yet, this does not mean it is impossible. Let's explore the possibilities.

The Role of Visiting Professors

One practical approach is to identify a visiting professor from a university in the US who can co-supervise you alongside a professor in France. Visiting professors often bring invaluable expertise and resources to their host institutions. Here’s how you can approach this:

Find a visiting professor: Look for a professor from a US university who is known for expertise in your field and is currently visiting or planning to visit your host university. Visiting professors are often recognized by their institution and may have established professional relationships with faculty at various institutions. Establish a co-advisory team: Propose to co-supervise you with a local professor at your host university. The visiting professor can provide special expertise or theoretical perspectives, while the local professor can offer practical insights and resources. Negotiate timelines and logistics: Discuss the number of visits the professor can make and the remote support they can provide. Ensure that the visiting professor is willing to collaborate and has the time to commit to this arrangement. Seek departmental approval: Present your proposal to your department at USC for approval. They can provide guidance and support to ensure all policies are followed. Document and formalize the arrangement: Establish a clear agreement outlining the responsibilities, expectations, and timelines for the co-advisory relationship.

Unofficial Arrangements and Alternative Solutions

While formal co-supervision may be challenging, there are still ways to benefit from an advisor who is not based at your university:

Consult with your department: Speak with your department at USC about informal arrangements. Sometimes, partial support from faculty members can be negotiated, even if the formal status differs. Seek out a remote supervisor: If the student is particularly interested in working with a specific professor, discuss the possibility of remote supervision. This can involve video calls, emails, and visits when feasible. While not as ideal as on-site supervision, there are many resources available to make remote supervision effective. Explore external funding: Investigate scholarships or grants that might support a visit from a desired advisor. Some organizations are willing to fund international research collaborations, which can facilitate a more collaborative experience.

By taking these steps, you can increase the likelihood of securing the expertise and guidance you need from a professor outside your immediate university, thereby enriching your PhD experience.

Conclusion

While it is unlikely that a PhD advisor from another university can join your program officially, there are still ways to work around the traditional model to achieve your academic goals. By seeking out visiting professors, consulting with your department, and exploring alternative solutions, you can bring the necessary expertise and support to your PhD journey.