Topic: Research Communities
Working Well With Your Supervisor: A Collaborative Approach to Your PGR Journey
A strong supervisory relationship can make a real difference to your PGR experience. Drawing on current thinking about supervision, Elizabeth O'Connor, Researcher Development Officer in the Research Strategy and Services Division, explores how clear communication, shared expectations, and active partnership can help researchers build productive working relationships.
PGR WSS 2026: timeout to reflect, network with colleagues, and recharge
A dedicated space to write is valuable, but the connections made along the way can be just as important. Reflecting on this year’s PGR Writing Summer School, Aline Nixon, a PGR in the School of Infection, Inflammation and Immunology, shares how conversations with fellow researchers and sessions on thesis writing and publishing helped her gain fresh perspectives and renewed momentum.
The Power of Representation: Insights from Holding the Space
Nadra Adan, from the School of Biosciences, reflects on her experience at the Holding the Space conference, exploring themes of representation, community, and belonging. She shares key insights from speakers and discussions, highlighting how the event shaped her perspective as a Black PhD researcher and reinforced the value of visibility, mentorship, and inclusive academic environments.
Where Postgraduate Research Meets Responsibility
At the start of Parents and Carers Fortnight, Georgina Hardy, PGR Development Manager in Libraries and Learning Resources, reflects on how universities can better support PGR parents and carers through listening, flexible practices, and inclusive cultures that recognise researchers as whole people and enable everyone to thrive.
“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.
“Rest is not optional”
In this last post for 2025, Georgina Hardy, PGR Development Manager in Libraries and Learning Resources, celebrates the Christmas break as a rare chance to rest. Make the most of this time to recharge, supporting both your wellbeing and your research.
The struggle for citation justice
Following recent media controversy, Judith Hegenbarth, Head of Research Skills in Libraries and Learning Resources, explores the growing movement for citation justice, why diversity in references matters, and how small changes can strengthen research integrity.
Standing Firm in Power and Pride: Reflections of a Black Postgraduate Researcher
In this powerful Black History Month reflection, Queenie Nwariaku, a Black PGR in the School of Government, shares her journey of finding voice, pride, and community in academic spaces not built with them in mind.
Spotlight on the RDF: 5.1 Research culture
In one of our occasional series of “Spotlight on…” posts, we take a closer look at a specific descriptor from the RDF. Each one of the thirty-two descriptors in Vitae‘s Researcher Development Framework (RDF) is a characteristic of an excellent researcher, and we’ll be looking at how UoB PGRs can develop these characteristics.