The ATISR Doctoral Consortium offers a structured platform for doctoral students to engage with senior researchers and industry experts. Designed to support early-stage scholars, this program focuses on research development, professional networking, and academic mentorship. Here’s a detailed look at how the mentorship program operates and what criteria are used for participant selection.
Purpose
The primary aim of the ATISR Doctoral Consortium is to foster academic growth among PhD candidates. It provides a rare opportunity for students to present their work, receive constructive feedback, and build lasting academic connections. The initiative helps participants improve the quality of their research and better prepare for careers in academia or industry.
This event is usually held in conjunction with the ATISR Conference, attracting experienced faculty members and researchers who serve as mentors throughout the program.
Structure
The consortium is typically organized around interactive sessions. Students are grouped based on research themes and paired with mentors who have expertise in those areas. Sessions include individual presentations, mentor-guided feedback, and group discussions.
A typical schedule includes:
- Orientation and introductions
- Student research presentations
- Mentor feedback sessions
- Panel discussions on career development
- Networking and Q&A sessions
Participants not only share their ideas but also receive direct guidance on methodology, publication strategies, and future research directions.
Mentorship
Mentorship is the heart of the consortium. Each student is assigned at least one mentor who reviews their work in advance and provides detailed feedback. These mentors are senior academics or professionals with extensive experience in information systems and related fields.
The mentors help students refine their research questions, suggest improvements in methodology, and offer advice on publishing. Importantly, the mentor-student interaction is not limited to a single event – many relationships continue beyond the consortium, opening doors for long-term collaboration.
Selection
The selection process for the consortium is competitive but fair. Applicants must submit a research proposal or extended abstract, typically 5 to 10 pages, outlining their research problem, methodology, expected contributions, and preliminary findings.
Key selection criteria include:
- Research originality
- Theoretical contribution
- Methodological rigor
- Clarity and organization of the proposal
- Relevance to the field of information systems
Applicants may also be asked to submit a short bio or CV to highlight academic achievements and research potential.
Evaluation
Each proposal is evaluated by a review panel that scores submissions based on the criteria listed above. The panel also considers the stage of the applicant’s research – early-stage PhD students are welcome, but the proposal should show clear direction and purpose.
Only a limited number of students are selected to ensure quality interaction during mentorship sessions.
Here’s a simplified version of the selection rubric:
| Criteria | Weight (%) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Originality | 25% | Novelty of research topic and approach |
| Contribution | 20% | Potential impact on the academic field |
| Methodology | 20% | Soundness of research design and execution |
| Clarity | 15% | Quality of writing and logical organization |
| Relevance | 20% | Fit with consortium themes and focus areas |
Applicants receiving higher overall scores are shortlisted and notified for participation.
Benefits
Participation in the ATISR Doctoral Consortium provides multiple benefits, including:
- Tailored feedback from experts
- Insights into publication and research funding
- Career advice from academic and industry mentors
- Networking with peers and senior scholars
- Exposure to a global academic environment
The experience often boosts participants’ confidence and helps refine their dissertation work significantly.
Commitment
Students selected for the consortium are expected to attend all sessions and actively participate in discussions. Presentations should be well-prepared, and students are encouraged to approach the event as a professional academic engagement.
Participants must also be registered attendees of the main ATISR Conference, as the consortium is part of the broader academic gathering.
The ATISR Doctoral Consortium plays a critical role in nurturing academic talent. With a strong mentorship model and a clear, merit-based selection process, it provides emerging researchers the platform they need to grow. Whether you’re refining a dissertation or exploring future academic pathways, this program offers invaluable support and connection.
FAQs
Who can apply for the consortium?
PhD students working on research in information systems.
What documents are needed to apply?
A research proposal and academic CV or bio.
Is mentorship one-on-one?
Yes, each student is assigned at least one mentor.
Are early-stage PhD students eligible?
Yes, if their research shows clear focus and structure.
Is participation tied to the ATISR Conference?
Yes, students must also register for the main conference.