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Understanding Precarity- Invitations for Expressions of Interest
There is growing concern – among the postdoctoral research community and beyond – regarding what is typically described as precarity. However, genuine solutions remain elusive. Here, we will discuss the issues Pathway 2 staff are facing, and share the relevant conversations happening at University level, with funders and in the wider sector. This will include outlining some of the challenges and constraints that exist, and giving participants the opportunity to work in small groups to propose solutions. Ultimately, solutions will only be identified through good faith dialogue and constructive challenge, involving all stakeholders. Our hope is that this session can be a first step towards this.
If you are interested in taking part in this session, please complete this short Expression of interest by 28th March 2024.
This event is sponsored by the Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research Culture.
Upcoming workshops
Places are now available on the following workshops:
- 20 March 14:00-15:15- Intro to Writing a Grant Proposal [Health and Life Sciences]
- 21 March 10:00-12:30-Working Towards a Fellowship [Health and Life Sciences]
- 22 March 10:00-14:00- Bristol Clear 1:1s
- 25 March 10:00-12:30- Bristol Clear 1:1s
- 09 April 14:00-15:00- Introduction to Research Data
- 17 April 13:30-15:00- Intro to Research Funding [Arts & SSL]
- 18 April 12:00-13:00- Career Journeys: Discovering careers outside of academia
- 22 April- 14:00-16:30- Managing Research Teams (in person)
- 23 April 10:00-11:00- Costing a Research Proposal
- 24 April 10:00-12:00- Introduction to Research Impact (in person)
- 25 April 14:00-15:00- Introduction to Commercialisation
- 25 April 09:30-12:00- How to Peer Review Manuscripts for Journals
- 01 May 14:00-15:00- Intro to Writing a Grant Proposal [Arts & SSL]
- 02 May 10:30-15:30- Networking for Researchers- a strategic approach (in person)
- 09 May 09:30-12:00- Discovering Career Support for Researchers at Bristol (in person)
To book, please sign in to Develop now and search the catalogue for these course titles. To book a place after registration has closed, please email sd-course@bristol.ac.uk
To see a full list of Bristol Clear and Research in Practice workshops, please see our webpage.
Research-related events and initiatives
Our Voices Matter – Staff Experience Survey 2024 – your opportunity to make your voice heard
You have the option to complete the survey online or in person at drop-in events organised by the Staff Engagement team (tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided):
- Senate House, 13th March -SU Loft (Upper GF) / 7:30am -1pm
- Dental School, 18th March- G.42 / 2pm-5pm
- Senate House, 19th March- SU Loft (Upper GF) / 7:30am -1pm
Your responses are entirely anonymous, and it only takes about 10 minutes to complete. Additional details and resources can be found on the dedicated SharePoint site. Your participation holds immense value in shedding light on the experiences of Pathway 2 researchers here at Bristol. We urge you to take the opportunity to be heard.
BBSRC ICURe Engage – April 2024- (Wales and Southwest of England focused)
Applications for a new opportunity for bioscience research students/post-docs/research staff across the South West and Wales are now open with the call closing on the 12 April 2024.
This 4-week, part-time program aims to introduce participants to commercialization tools and entrepreneurship opportunities in bioscience research, prioritizing applicants from Wales and the South West of England. Similar programs will run in other UK regions throughout 2024 and early 2025. More details available at https://www.icureprogramme.com/icure-engage/
Contact Sabrina Fairchild at s.fairchild@gw4.ac.uk with any queries.
Inclusive Research Toolkit & Opportunity to participate in train-the-trainer programme
The Inclusive Research Toolkit has been developed to support inclusive research practice. We are currently working on further reviewing and developing the content of the Toolkit, and on supporting its use and implementation through a train-the-trainer programme. We would like to invite you to complete this short form to share your thoughts on the toolkit, and to let us know if you are interested in taking part in a train-the-trainer workshop (in person). These half-day workshops will be held in May/June and numbers are limited. The workshops will be designed to support you with using the toolkit most effectively, and to support inclusive research practice across your Schools.
From Cuttlefish to Clinic: The Enterprise Sessions with Dr Shelby Temple
How do you transition from academia to entrepreneurship? In the latest episode of the Enterprise Sessions, Professor Michele Barbour talks to Dr Shelby Temple about founding his company Azul Optics, a medical device company focused on using innovative screening technologies to improve eye health. Shelby shares how he learned he could pursue commercialisation at Bristol through programmes like SETsquared and ICure. Take a look at the latest episode on the Enterprise Sessions website.
The Elizabeth Blackwell Institute is hosting AI workshops in health research, offering insights into various applications of AI across disciplines. These sessions aim to foster collaborations and enhance capacity for major grant applications. Register for the following workshops:
- ‘AI in Infectious Diseases’, April 18, 12:00-14:00, register by April 4.
- ‘AI in Precision Psychiatry’, May 2, 12:00-14:00, register by April 18.
- ‘AI in Cancer Prediction and Early Detection’, May 20, 12:00-14:00, register by May 7.
Open to UoB colleagues, NHS members, and others interested in AI and health research. Contact ebi-events@bristol.ac.uk for inquiries.
Opportunity to transition discoveries beyond the lab
The Division of Research, Enterprise and Innovation and Spin Up Science are offering an ImpactLab for ECRs and PhD candidates. ImpactLab will equip you with holistic skills essential for innovation, leadership, and career success.
Spin Up Science offers a 1-day training for ECRs and PhD students in life sciences, focusing on developing groundbreaking technology, transitioning discoveries beyond the lab, and mobilizing innovation resources. Hear from local bioscientists about transforming breakthroughs into impactful technologies. Attendance unlocks access to the Bioscientist MBA, a program for validating technology and meeting senior leaders, business owners, and investors.
Thursday, 9th May, from 09:00 to 17:00, Augustine’s Courtyard, AUGC G-0.9 A & B
Please contact Diane.Clark@bristol.ac.uk to register your interest.
This retreat offers Research Associates and Senior Research Associates without an established position at the University of Bristol a chance to focus on career development and connect with peers. Through two days of workshops, participants will clarify their goals, gain confidence, and identify actions to advance their careers. Priority will be given to those facing barriers, including those impacted by Covid-19, and applicants from Black heritage backgrounds. Interested individuals should email Claire Wrixon (Claire.wrixon@bristol.ac.uk) with a 1-page expression of interest. Expenses, including travel and childcare up to £150, can be claimed via the school budget, see the expense policy. Limited spaces available; allocation will be via lottery if oversubscribed.
Career development resources from other providers
The Theory of the Postdoc Evolution
“The Theory of the Postdoc Evolution” podcast, by the Postdoctoral Centre at Queen’s University Belfast, offers career planning insights for postdocs. It features interviews with former postdocs discussing their career journeys and roles post-PhD. Recorded at live events, it covers topics like fellowships and open access.