Notion Template for PhD Planning
A customizable Notion planner designed to help PhD students track their research, deadlines, publications, and goals in one structured space.


ACCESS HERE: | Dark Mode Template | Light Mode Template
A comprehensive Notion workspace designed to address the organizational complexities of doctoral research through integrated project management, data tracking, and academic workflow systematization.
Template Architecture
Core Framework
The Zephyr Planner implements a centralized database architecture that connects thesis management, research data, academic networking, and project tracking through Notion's relational database system. This structure supports the interdisciplinary and iterative nature of doctoral research.
System Components
PhD Dashboard
Centralized overview interface providing real-time status monitoring across all doctoral activities.
- Thesis area progress visualization
- Task completion metrics
- Writing progress indicators
- Notes and references overview
Thesis Writing Management
Structured environment for dissertation development with status tracking and cross-referenced note integration.
- Chapter organization with templates
- Writing status indicators
- Navigation between thesis sections
- Linked note references
Bibliography Integration
Reference management system with Zotero compatibility for systematic citation tracking.
- Zotero database integration
- Citation status tracking
- Reference categorization
- Literature review organization
Task and Project Management
Comprehensive task organization with status indicators, due dates, and progress tracking for academic projects.
- Task status indicators and reminders
- Due date tracking
- Project progress monitoring
- Academic milestone planning
Note-Taking System
Organized note management with cross-referencing capabilities and easy access to research materials.
- Meeting notes documentation
- Research note organization
- Cross-referenced note linking
- Quick note access system
Contact Management
Professional contact database with institutional affiliations and application tracking capabilities.
- Contact database with institutional details
- Application status tracking
- Professional contact categorization
Implementation Workflow
- Template Duplication: Standard Notion template duplication process into personal workspace
- Database Configuration: Customization of database properties to match specific research requirements
- Integration Setup: Connection with external tools (Zotero, calendar applications, reference managers)
- Data Migration: Transfer of existing research materials, notes, and project information
- Workflow Establishment: Implementation of regular update and review processes
Technical Specifications
Template Versions:
Available in both light and dark mode configurations for optimal visual comfort
Platform Requirements:
Notion.so account (free tier sufficient for individual use)
Device Compatibility:
Optimized for desktop and laptop interfaces; mobile access available
External Integrations:
Zotero reference management, calendar synchronization capabilities
Template Format:
Digital workspace with pre-configured databases and relational structures
Customization Level:
Full database schema modification, property customization, workflow adaptation
Language Support:
English interface with customizable field labels
Display Modes:
Two distinct template versions optimized for light and dark theme preferences, ensuring visual accessibility across different working environments
Implementation Considerations
Prerequisites
- Functional Notion account with database creation capabilities
- Basic familiarity with Notion's database and relation systems
- Access to desktop or laptop device for optimal interface utilization
Setup Process
- Template duplication via Notion's standard duplication mechanism
- Database property customization based on specific research requirements
- Integration configuration with existing research tools and workflows
Maintenance Requirements
- Regular database updates to maintain current project status
- Periodic review of task and milestone tracking accuracy
- Ongoing customization as research focus evolves