This paper examines the use of First Class conferencing software to create a virtual culture among research students and as a vehicle for supervision and advising. Topics discussed include: computer-mediated communication and research; entry to cyberculture, i.e., research students' induction into the research community; supervision and the Internet, including advantages of computer conferencing; the emergence of professional doctoral programs in Australian universities, specifically the creation of the Ed. D. program at Deakin University (Australia); computer-based supervision at Deakin University using First Class conferencing as the basis for establishing a virtual campus within which students and advisers can interact; conferencing as supervision and the shifts this implies for supervision; the virtual research community, including creating bridges between the local culture and the wider research community; and new directions for universities and changes in the nature of academic work. A figure presents the First Class interface. (DLS)