JohnWillis
New member
- Joined
- Mar 9, 2026
- Messages
- 9
I've found my dream thesis topic — AI bias in politics. It's specific, relevant, and I'm genuinely passionate about it. But now I have the practical problem: how do I find an advisor for this? My department doesn't have any AI experts. Most professors study traditional political science topics. I'm stuck. 
What I've learned from asking around:
1. Look beyond your department.
A PhD student told me: "My advisor is technically in sociology, but her research overlaps with my political science questions. Don't be afraid to ask faculty in related fields." I'm now looking at communications, information science, and even computer science professors.
2. Start with course instructors.
If you've taken a class with someone whose research is adjacent to your interests, start there. They're more likely to say yes to a student they already know.
3. Read their recent work.
Before emailing anyone, read at least 2-3 of their recent publications. Mention specific things that interested you. Show you've done your homework. Professors get dozens of generic emails. Stand out.
4. Be flexible with your topic.
One professor told me: "I can't advise a thesis on AI bias in politics, but if you're willing to focus on [their specific area], I could work with you." Be open to adapting your question to fit their expertise while keeping your core interest.
5. Consider co-advising.
If one professor knows methods and another knows content, ask if they'd co-advise. It's more work for them, so have a clear proposal first.
6. Look for external advisors.
Some departments allow an external advisor from another university or research institution. More paperwork, but possible if you find the perfect match.
My email draft (feedback welcome):
Subject: Potential MA thesis supervision on AI and political bias
Does this sound okay? Any other tips for finding the right advisor? I'm nervous about this whole process.
What I've learned from asking around:
1. Look beyond your department.
A PhD student told me: "My advisor is technically in sociology, but her research overlaps with my political science questions. Don't be afraid to ask faculty in related fields." I'm now looking at communications, information science, and even computer science professors.
2. Start with course instructors.
If you've taken a class with someone whose research is adjacent to your interests, start there. They're more likely to say yes to a student they already know.
3. Read their recent work.
Before emailing anyone, read at least 2-3 of their recent publications. Mention specific things that interested you. Show you've done your homework. Professors get dozens of generic emails. Stand out.
4. Be flexible with your topic.
One professor told me: "I can't advise a thesis on AI bias in politics, but if you're willing to focus on [their specific area], I could work with you." Be open to adapting your question to fit their expertise while keeping your core interest.
5. Consider co-advising.
If one professor knows methods and another knows content, ask if they'd co-advise. It's more work for them, so have a clear proposal first.
6. Look for external advisors.
Some departments allow an external advisor from another university or research institution. More paperwork, but possible if you find the perfect match.
My email draft (feedback welcome):
Subject: Potential MA thesis supervision on AI and political bias
Does this sound okay? Any other tips for finding the right advisor? I'm nervous about this whole process.
