Requesting References for Jobs and Internships

Advisory for Physics and Astronomy Students

Who to Ask
You should ask a member of the School with whom you have had direct academic or professional interaction. This may include your personal tutor, a lecturer who taught you, or a project supervisor. It is more important to ask a tutor who knows you well than a senior academic who has had little direct interaction with you. In general, reference letters include information known to the referee from working with you.

Consistency of Referees
You should normally use the same referee or referees for all applications within the same recruitment cycle. Avoid asking different members of staff to provide references for different positions unless there is a clear and justified reason.

How to Make the Request
Ask politely and well in advance. Explain what you are applying for, provide the deadline, and state how the reference will be submitted. Always ask whether the member of staff is willing to act as a referee, rather than assuming they will do so.

Providing Supporting Information
You should supply, or offer to supply, any information that may help the referee write an accurate reference. This may include your CV, details of the role, relevant skills, and a reminder of how and when they taught or supervised you. All information included must be verifiable and based on your actual interaction with the referee.

Professional Conduct
Once a member of staff agrees to act as your referee, meet deadlines, provide information promptly, and communicate clearly. You should thank them for their time and inform them of the outcome of your application when appropriate.