Choosing a #PhD advisor is one of the most important decisions a grad student can make. With limited knowledge, you want to ensure that your working environment is healthy and supportive of your needs. Below are my modest tidbits for ferreting out your ideal advisor. #phdchat

The best advisors are those that are generous with their time, have a skill you want to develop, are kind to those that work beneath them, and have your best interests in mind. Many will argue that these values are more important than his or her research area. #phdchat

One of the best ways to get an understanding of a lab (that you haven't worked in) is to talk with graduate students, research techs, post-docs, or even other faculty within the department. #phdchat

I've asked questions like: Do you enjoy working in this lab? How would you describe your relationship with Dr. X? Does the lab have fun together? Have you ever regretted joining the lab? I've found folks to be very forthcoming because everyone is in the same boat. #phdchat

If the feedback that you're getting is negative...BELIEVE them. Please don't assume your experience will be different. Isolated incidents do happen, but tend to repeat themselves. If you sense tension, unhappiness, abuse, or the term 'psychopath' is used, move on. #phdchat

Ideally, your advisor is someone you want to be comfortable around. Do they have interests outside of their field? Do their lab members? Sense of humor? Position on vacations? You're looking to see whether they're a balanced person with a sense of humility. #phdchat

Professors rarely, if ever, receive management training. I've had advisors say:'let me know how I can be the best mentor for you.' (If they say this: keeper). Help them help you. Are you someone that needs to meet frequently? Need more space? Inquire about their style. #phdchat

Red flags (for me) : (1) An advisor who refuses to publish outside Nature, Science, Cell etc. Lab members seem overworked and least happy. (2) An advisor who cannot address conflict. Passive aggressiveness breeds tension.

Any others? #phdchat

Lastly, if you find yourself in an unhealthy lab situation, switching labs may be the best thing you do. It's not worth your health. Several scientists have been in your shoes and gone on to great careers. #phdchat

PS. Departments need to do more to ensure better situations for their students. It shouldn't be on their shoulders alone. #phdchat

What are your tips for finding a great advisor?