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ECR Newsletter - May 2024

Early Career Researchers Hub   :   ECR Training and Development

Welcome to this month's ECR Newsletter where you will find key information on the following:-

  • Spotlight On ...
  • ECR Researcher Development Programme
  • Learning and Development Opportunities: University of Exeter and Beyond
  • Research Grants, Funding & Competitions
  • Research Culture
  • Research & Researcher Networks
  • Research & Researcher Blogs
  • Organising an Event & Need Help?
  • Health, Wellbeing & Support
  • Please direct any questions you may have to researcherdevelopment@exeter.ac.uk.

    Previous copies of Newsletters can be viewed by clicking here. If you have something that you'd like to share in future Newsletters, click here for copy deadline dates as well as submission guidelines.

    Spotlight On ...

    ECR Town Hall Events in Cornwall and Exeter - Don't miss out!

    Cornwall Event - Tuesday 4 June 2024 (11.30 am - 1 pm) - Penryn Campus, Daphne Du Maurier Building, Seminar Room L

    Exeter Event - Wednesday 5 June 2024 (2 pm - 3.30 pm) - Streatham Campus, Washington Singer Building, Room 219.

    As part of the revised structure of representation of Early Career Researchers at the University, the Researcher Development & Research Culture team is pleased to announce the inaugural ECR Town Hall Events. These are in-person, on campus get-togethers for ECRs to build community, socialise, share experiences and make connections. Anyone interested in attending must register beforehand. Light refreshments will be served at the events.  Please register your place below.

    ECR Researcher Development Programme

    The Researcher Development Core Training Programme for ECRs is a development programme specifically designed for Early Career Research staff (ie, staff on research only contracts grades E to G inc), across all campuses of the University of Exeter. Upcoming courses (you will need to be connected to the University VPN to book on):-.

    Mapping and Marketing Your Skills - 07/05/2024 (1.30 pm - 2.30 pm)
    Getting Stuff Done - 14/05/2024 (10 am - 11.30 am)
    LinkedIn for Researchers: Developing and Using Your Profile - 14/05/2024 (1.30 pm - 3 pm)
    Narrative CVs - 16/05/2024 (10.30 am - 11.45 am)
    Python for Data Analysis - (3 part course) 17, 24 & 31 May 2024 (1 pm - 4 pm)
    Why, Who, What & How of Public Engagement with Research - 20/05/2024 (10 am - 12 noon)
    Intermediate Version Control - (2 part course) 21 & 28 May 2024 (10 am - 1 pm)
    An Introduction to Research Ethics Review - 21/05/2024 (10 am - 12 noon)
    Sharing Research Data - 22/05/2024 (10 am - 11 am)
    Applying for your Next Academic Role - 23/05/2024 (9.30 am - 11 am)
    Introduction to R - (3 part course) 4, 11 & 18 June 2024 (10 am - 1 pm).
    Town Hall Event - Penryn - 04/06/2024 (11.30 am - 1 pm) - details above under 'Spotlight On' section of Newsletter.
    Writing World Leading & Impactful Research Papers - 05/06/2024 (12 noon - 1.30 pm)
    Town Hall Event - Streatham - 05/06/2024 (2 pm - 3.30 pm) - details above under 'Spotlight On' section of Newsletter.
    Overcoming Imposter Feelings - Support for Researchers - 06/06/2024 (9.15 am - 12.45 pm)
    Parallel Computing - (2 part course) 7 & 14 June 2024 (10 am - 1 pm)
    Developing Effective Networks for Research Projects - 11/06/2024 (1 pm - 2.30 pm)
    Introduction to MATLAB - (2 part course) 13 & 20 June 2024 (1 pm - 4 pm)
    Regression Analysis with R - 25/06/2024 (1 pm - 4 pm)
    1:2:1 Confidential Careers Appointments with Kenneth Howgill (ECR Careers Coach).
    Focus Space - takes place virtually every Monday and Thursday (10 am - 12.30 pm).

    Learning and Development Opportunities: University of Exeter and Beyond

    UKRI  - Research Integrity - Online Training Course

    Registration window : 15 April – 10 May 2024.

    UK Research Integrity Office has made available its Research Integrity online training course that the University of Exeter (as a subscriber), has been given a trial period access of 12 months. Aimed primarily at ECRs and later stage PhD students, it comprises of three modules:-

    • Introduction to Research Integrity;
    • Research Integrity in the UK;
    • Leading by Example.

    Individual users will have to log onto the module once in a short registration ‘window’ of (15 April – 10 May 2024) so that you can make use of it in the next 12 months.  To enrol, ECRs will need to click on the button below. If it does not take you directly to the course, simply go to the 'Catalogue' and search for 'Introduction to Research Integrity - UKRIO Training'.

    SCI Project Showcase: Gene Drive Mosquitoes

    Thursday 2 May 2024 (4 pm - 5 pm)
    Streatham Campus, Digitial Humanities Seminar Room 1 & online via Teams


    Speakers:
    Professor Sarah Hartley (Management).
    Dr Chris Opesen (Makerere University, Uganda).


    Gene drive mosquitoes is a short documentary film that is beautifully shot in Uganda and explores Ugandan stakeholders’ hopes for gene drive mosquitoes – a radical new tool that offers a way to eliminate the mosquitoes that cause malaria. Following the film, Chris Opesen and Sarah Hartley will answer questions and facilitate discussion. Chris will also be available to talk about other global health topics he is working on.

    Upcoming Free Public Engagement Training Led by Engagement Consultant Dr Jamie Gallagher - Welcome all!

    Engagement Masterclass - delivered via Zoom.
    Tuesday 7 May 2024 ( 2 pm - 3 pm)

    In a packed hour you will discover some top tips on increasing the reach, profile and impact of your research.

    Evaluation of Engagement Workshops - delivered via Zoom.
    Tuesday 21 May 2024 (1 pm - 4 pm)

    Successful public engagement can benefit research, researchers and the public - but how do you go about demonstrating this change? This workshop will guide you through the best evaluation processes showing you 'When', 'Why' and crucially 'How' to use evaluation to give you reliable and clear data. Demonstrate success to funders; record Impact for REF; learn how to improve your processes and have a better understanding of the people you are connecting with. Use the button below to book on however, select 'No thank you' on the first page and it will take you through to this course on the second page.

    Questions? email per@exeter.ac.uk

    Beyond the Goldfish Bowl: Communicating Research Creatively

    Tuesday 7 May 2024 (2 pm - 3.30 pm)
    Wednesday 22 May 2024 (10.30 am - 12 noon)

    These online workshops are aimed at ECRs and PGRs but open to everyone. The priority is simplicity. Attendees will leave equipped with practical skills, knowledge of effective collaboration, and strategies for navigating constraints.

    Tuesday 7 May 2024 (2 pm - 3.30 pm) - In the crow’s nest. Presenter: Professor Jo Thompson-Coon, University of Exeter.  Book via Eventbrite here.
    Wednesday 22 May 2024 (10.30 am – 12 noon) - Into the wild. Presenter: Dan Porter, Co-founder of Scriberia. Book via Eventbrite here.

    This activity is a Researcher-led Initiative that has been funded by the University of Exeter Researcher Development and Research Culture team. Any queries contact Harriet Hunt h.a.hunt@exeter.ac.uk.

    The Access to Artefacts Workshop - Collaborations between Collections and Researchers

    Thursday 9 May (1 pm - 5.30 pm) & Friday 10 May 2024 (9.30 am - 5 pm)
    Exeter Digital Humanities Lab (in-person fully booked) and Online (only Online available).

    This Workshop aims to bring together researchers and curators/collections managers to improve communication surrounding expectations and requirements to do with the loaning of archaeological artefacts and ecofacts for research.  Ultimately it is intended to create a guidance document to support more effective collaborations, balancing the needs of all involved; this document would be circulated among both museums and research institutions, with participants of the workshop as co-authors. In-person attendance is fully booked however participants are very welcome to join online. 

    This activity is a Researcher-led Initiative that has been funded by the University of Exeter Researcher Development and Research Culture team.

    Summer Webinar Series - Medical and Digital Humanities

    Please see below upcoming online lectures hosted by the Literature and Science Forum. For news on upcoming events visit Instagram and X (Twitter) can both be found at @ _literaturesa.

    • An arrest of the disease might yet be procured’: Rethinking Anne Brontë, Tuberculosis, and Victorian Medicine - Wednesday 15 May (15:00 BST) Dr Claire O’Callaghan (Loughborough University).
    • Attending to Race, Place, and Care in the Critical Medical Humanities - Wednesday 5 June (15:00 BST) Dr Arya Thampuran (Durham University).
    • Nature’s Experiments’: Balzac, Brain Trauma, and the Birth of Tragic Realism - Wednesday 19 June (15:00 BST) Professor Andrew Mangham (University of Reading).

    Zoom Link: https://cesnet.zoom.us/j/98152094443

    Exeter & Falmouth Researcher Drop-in Lunch Break

    Wednesday 15 May 2024 (12 noon - 1 pm)
    Penryn Campus, Trevithick Room / Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI).


    Join the FX Creative Exchange in-person, drop-in lunch break for researchers with coffee, cake & two micro talk tasters (5 mins) with Dr. Rachael Jones from Falmouth University - Thinking through Filmmaking.  A research practice that explores the possibilities of film to not just capture and record but promote new nonlinear ways of thinking and experiencing landscape and place and Professor Jamie Hampson from University of Exeter - Indigenous rock art: sacred landscapes and images of power.

    Open to all engaged or interested in research from University of Exeter and Falmouth University.  Bring your lunch and your re-useable cup (if you have one). Coffee, tea and cake provided.

    Future dates for your calendar:
    Wednesdy 19 June 2024 (12 noon - 1 pm) – venue tbc.
    July (date tbc), Gray’s Wharf Gallery, Penryn - opening and social at the Creative Exchanges exhibition.

    If you have any questions, please contact Kate Pennington-Wilson on: esienquiries@exeter.ac.uk

    Future of AI Awards 2024: Collaborate, Debate, Invent

    Thursday 6 June 2024 (9.15 m - 6 pm)
    Streatham Campus, Building One, Bateman Lecture Theatre

    At the Future of AI Awards 2024 we will discuss and exchange ideas, and work on developing new and exciting collaborative efforts on the pivotal topic of Artificial Intelligence. Our goal is enhancing and elevating our space for innovation in the field of AI for ECRs. Through a series of forward thinking, inspiring and interactive sessions, we will work on developing shared knowledge and understanding of Future of AI research between members of our ECRN. This includes guest speakers talks, an industrial panel, social activities where you can meet other researchers with common interests, and take part in the Future of AI Awards: a competition in which teams present funding ideas to win a prize as voted for by delegates. You can expect an enriching and rewarding day that leads to new connections and collaborations, research opportunities, and to lay the groundwork for submitting and winning future funding applications.  This activity is part of an ECRN Enhancement Award that has been funded by the University of Exeter Researcher Development and Research Culture team.

    To Environmental Intelligence and Beyond! (EIB24)

    Monday 17 June - Thursday 20 June 2024 (9 am onwards) - Streatham Campus.

    Join this year’s Grand Challenge event hosted by the UKRI AI CDT in Environmental Intelligence.

    During EIB24, skills and technical workshops will run in conjunction with sessions focusing on real-world environmental sustainability challenges, providing a fantastic opportunity to develop vital knowledge, experience and networking to positively impact your research. The event will be delivered in partnership with internal and external organisations (TBC) who will set environment and sustainability challenges tied to their core missions. Interdisciplinary teams will then be able to develop and design effective and creative solutions. Passionate people are sought (researchers, professionals & students) with skills and interests in the environment, data science, and responsible innovation, to take part and collaborate.

    This free four-day event will include lunch and refreshments each day, social events, and dedicated event and collaboration space.

    For further information contact: ei@exeter.ac.uk

    Abstract Submissions Open - PGR and ECR Research Ethics Conference (PEREC) 2024

    FREE Conference : Friday 5 July 2024 (9.30 am - 5 pm) - University of Bath. Drinks Reception (5 pm - 6 pm).
    Abstract Submissions Deadline  : Friday 14 June 2024 (11.59 pm).

    All ECRs & PGRs  from the University of Exeter are invited to participate in the ECR & PGR Research Ethics Conference (PEREC) 2024, hosted by the Research Ethics Association (REA), which will take place on Friday 5 July at the University of Bath. Registration is free, thanks to funding provided by the University of Exeter, as well as support from the Research Ethics Association, Research England, University of Bath and other organisations and institutions. All refreshments and lunch will be provided as well as a drinks reception.

    The event offers opportunities to:

    • Engage in thought-provoking discussions on ethical considerations in research;
    • Present their research findings and contribute to interdisciplinary dialogue;
    • Network with peers and mentors from academia and industry.

    Abstract submission for PEREC 2024 is now open (deadline see above). Abstracts can cover a wide range of topics related to research ethics, reflecting their research, experiences, thoughts, literature reviews or anything else related to ethics.

    If you have any queries, please contact info@ethics-association.org.

    Survey Relating to Neurodivergence in Higher Education - University of Warwick

    This survey is related to a research project at University of Warwick – entitled 'Understanding Self' – which is looking at barriers and experiences of all staff and PhD students at Universities across the UK, regarding neurodiversity.

    The survey is 100% anonymous and will take about 2-3 minutes to complete. It is aimed at both people who identify as neurodiverse and those who do not.

    Anyone is also welcome to contact Dr Tara Schiller (t.l.schiller@warwick.ac.uk) or Dr Jennifer Rolls (jen.rolls@warwick.ac.uk), for further information.

    Prosper : Free Portal of Resources and Careers Guidance for Postdocs

    Prosper is a free portal of resources and careers guidance for postdocs with advice on working in and beyond academia.  The content is informed by postdocs, institutions, employers and research managers.  Postdocs at Exeter are encouraged to register via the Prosper portal as an institutional user (using Exeter email address) for the best functionality of the site. 

    Discounted tickets for Public Speaking Workshop

    Northcott Creative Director Martin Berry has spent 26 years coaching people to speak and present with confidence. Using simple techniques from the theatre world, this enjoyable workshop is a great chance to gain confidence in public speaking through discussion, simple exercises and fun. Colleagues can enjoy 10% off tickets when you use offer code UOESTAFF.

    Research Grants, Funding & Competitions

    Philip Leverhulme Prizes

    Deadline : Thursday 16 May 2024 (5 pm).

    For researchers at an early stage of their careers whose work has had international impact and whose future research career is exceptionally promising - to use for any research purpose
    Philip Leverhulme Prizes have been offered since 2001 in commemoration of the contribution to the work of the Trust made by Philip Leverhulme, the Third Viscount Leverhulme and grandson of William Hesketh Lever, the founder of the Trust.

    AHRC Cultural Heritage Research Translated into Climate Change Policy

    Deadline : Thursday 20 June 2024 (4 pm)

    Apply for this UK Research & Innoation funding to maximise the impact of UK arts and humanities research, and ensure it supports cultural heritage and cultural voices to play an essential role in climate planning for the future. This funding offers the opportunity to translate cultural heritage research into policy and societal benefits.

    The Royal Society - University Research Fellowship

    Opens : Thursday 11 July 2024
    Closes : Tuesday 10 September 2024
    .

    The University Research Fellowship (URF) programme aims to support the next generation of research leaders to undertake cutting-edge research. The objectives of the URF programme are to enable outstanding early career scientists with the potential to become leaders in their field.

     

    Funding Finder

    Andrew Cunliffe has created this Funding Finder platform which signposts hundreds of funding opportunities that will be of interest to current community members looking to undertake research, fieldwork, conference visits or exchanges with our partner organisations worldwide.  It has easily searchable listings and awards ranging from £100 to £10,000,000.

    Research Culture

    ECRN Enhancement Awards 2024 - Winners Announcement

    The ECRN Enhancement Awards 2024 have been allocated, and the Researcher Development & Research Culture team is delighted to announce this year’s winners. These awards aim to support the development and enhancement of Early Career Researcher Networks (ECRNs) at the University of Exeter. The selected projects have demonstrated outstanding contributions to fostering collaboration, career development, research culture, and community-building within the ECR community. Congratulations to the following winners:-

    ECRN: Biomedical Sciences : Biomedical Sciences ECRN and PGR Network Launch - Dr Sophie Walker.
    ECRN: Psychology: ECR Network Event: Empowering ECRs, Building Connections - Dr Melika Janbakhsh
    ECRN: Geography: Inspiration, Reflection & Action: Career Event for Geography Early Career Researchers - Dr Nina Lindstrom Friggens
    ECRN: Mathematics & Statistics: ECR Symposium and Research Skills Seminars - Dr Dimitar Vlaykov
    ECRN: Penryn Marine: Establishing the Penryn Marine ECRN - Dr Chris Kerry
    ECRN: IDSAI (Institute for Data Science and AI) : Future of AI - Dr Cédric Mesnage
    ECRN: HASS: Participatory Research - Building the Network - Dr Catherine Broomfield

    Research & Researcher Networks

    CBS (St Luke’s and RILD) Early Career Researcher Network (ECRN) Launch – tea, coffee and chat!

    Wednesday 29 May 2024 (pop-in any time between 3.30 pm - 5 pm)
    St Lukes Campus, Exeter Medical School, Room F20 (how to get there).


    Open to all ECRs and PGRs within CBS based at St Luke’s or RILD.

    The Clinical and Biomedical Sciences (for St Luke’s and RILD) Early Career Researcher Network (ECRN) is delighted to invite all ECRs and PGRs within the department to a launch event! Come and join in for tea, coffee and treats and chat to  see what we have planned and to have your say on what you would like to be included in our programme of events (also available via QR code poll on this flyer). Our current thoughts are to have alternating seminars (basic science and clinical) and wellness sessions, to develop a connected and supportive community.  This activity is part of an ECRN Enhancement Award that has been funded by the University of Exeter Researcher Development and Research Culture team.

    Please email Sophie, Katie, Christiana and Joe at CBS-ECRN@exeter.ac.uk for more information or to help organise future events!

    HASS ECR Network Event : Using Creative Processes in Participatory Research

    Tuesday 4 June 2024 (9.30 am – 2.30 pm)
    Streatham Campus, Streatham Court, The Collaboratory.

    A lively and informal workshop designed to inspire you with practical ideas and examples of how to use arts and digital technologies to create engaging and inclusive participatory research. With talks and interactive sessions by expert practitioners from within and beyond the university, the workshop is designed to get your creative juices flowing and help you find your interdisciplinary community of like-minded researchers and creative practitioners.

    The workshop is free and includes refreshments breaks and lunch to ensure plenty of time for reflection, discussion and generally getting to know people.  Spaces are limited, on first come-first served allocation.  This activity is part of an ECRN Enhancement Award that has been funded by the University of Exeter Researcher Development and Research Culture team.

    The Cornwall Wellbeing Network - Discounted 5-week yoga course and/or 5-week meditation course!

    The Cornwall Wellbeing Network is able to offer University of Exeter staff and postgraduate students  the opportunity to attend a 5-week yoga course and/or 5-week meditation course at the heavily reduced price of £5 per course (that’s just £1 per class!).

    Discover Yoga: SIGN UP HERE!
    Include consistent yoga practice and discover the benefits this can offer for both mind and body. First session: Tuesday 4 June and final session: Tuesday 2 July (all 12 noon start times) at Penryn Campus,Sports Centre Studio.

    Foundations of Meditation: SIGN UP HERE!
    You will be introduced to the foundational principles of meditation practice, sowing seeds that can ripen into greater ease, happiness and appreciation in your life.  First session: Tuesday 4 June and final session: Tuesday 2 July (all 11 am start times) at Penryn Campus, Sports Centre Studio.

    All proceeds will be donated to Ravenswell wildlife charity 🦉Enquiries to nh510@exeter.ac.uk.

    Attention all Early Career Researchers working in Mathematics or Statistics!

    Monday 17 June 2024 - Save the date!
    Registration and abstract submission deadline : Friday 31 May 2024

    The Early Career Research Network for Maths & Stats is organising a one-day in-person ECR Symposium on Monday 17 June 2024.

    You will have the chance to present your research (oral or poster), network with the ECRN Maths & Stats community, and attend talks and discussions on life as a researcher (and enjoy free lunch, coffee and cookies). Full programme announced: 7 June. This activity is part of an ECRN Enhancement Award that has been funded by the University of Exeter Researcher Development and Research Culture team.

    World Universities Network

    The University of Exeter has recently joined the World Universities Network (WUN), which aims to bring together researchers to collaborate and develop. The WUN support Early Career Researchers, and there are opportunities to apply for funding for research projects. To sign up to the WUN ECR Events news click here and to the generic WUN Newsletter click here.

    Research & Researcher Blogs

    Are you a blog writer fiend? ......

    We are looking for PhD and Early Career researchers to contribute to Exeter’s Research & Innovation blog and write posts that are based on three questions about your work.  If you would like to find out more please email digitalteam@exeter.ac.uk.

    Organising an Event & Need Help?

    Look no further .....

    If you're organising an event and don't know where to start, take a look at the Corporate Events webpage where you will find lots of useful information and advice including an Events Planning Toolkit!  If you would like to contact the Events Team for further advice email eventenquiries@exeter.ac.uk.

    Health, Wellbeing & Support

    Share your Views on Mental Health at the University

    Thanks to all who joined events held throughout March to share your thoughts on mental health at the University. Your views will feed into the University's gap analysis and action planning to develop our whole-University approach to mental health.

    If you were unable to attend any of the events you can still share your views using the online form.

    As a thank you, there are 4 x £25 vouchers to be won (with a choice of a Love2Shop voucher or an InExeter voucher). Winners will be chosen at random on 29 May 2024. 

    Power Walk and Talk Group

    Join a lunchtime group for a 20 minute power walk around Campus - meet outside Washington Singer Labs, Streatham Campus.

    When: 12.30 pm every Thursday
    Who: Open to all – students, staff and even their dogs!
    Why: Get active, socialise, enjoy fresh air and natural beauty, improve PM productivity


    This concept was selected by the Mental Health and Wellbeing Group to receive funding assistance from the Wellness Creation fund.

    New Wellbeing Web Portal from Spectrum Life

    The Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Spectrum Life is available to you for confidential support, advice and counselling 365 days a year.

    In addition to the 24/7 telephone and chat services, you now have access to a new and improved web portal. The portal offers even more free support and evidence-based resources including bookable appointments with a range of experts from financial advisors to dieticians, mindfulness on demand, relationship support, wellbeing courses, nutrition and recipes, online fitness classes and much more.

    To sign up to the web portal click on the button below, please use your exeter.ac.uk email address.