PGR Development Blog
Supporting postgraduate researchers to reflect, grow, and thrive.

A Classroom Full of Curiosity
In this post, Seun Olushola, a PGR in Applied Mathematics, reflects on a visit to the University of Birmingham School, where he supported Year 10 students preparing for their research enrichment activity. His experience highlights how accessible and enjoyable research can be when curiosity leads the way.

“Prioritise self-care: just do the next right thing for you”
Feeling overwhelmed or isolated in your research? Jane Thakoordin and Talitha Charlick from Pause@Uni share practical self-care strategies, such as grounding techniques and gratitude journaling, and introduce their confidential drop-in service offering wellbeing support for PGRs.

2026: we will be stronger together
In this first post of 2026, Georgina Hardy, PGR Development Manager in Libraries and Learning Resources, reflects on the importance of community in research and encourages you to strengthen existing connections and build new ones. She highlights how collaboration and shared experiences can help everyone thrive in the year ahead.
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Explore the domains and descriptors of the Researcher Development Framework
- 1.1 Development-focussed
- 2.3 Information and data literacy
- 2.4 Digital and technological capabilities
- 3.4 Open research
- 4.1 Communication
- 4.2 Research outputs
- 4.3 Knowledge exchange and public engagement
- 4.5 Teaching and learning
- 5.1 Research culture
- 5.6 Networking
- Research Communities
- Research: Engagement and impact
- Research: Knowledge and practice
- Research: Research management
- Researcher
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