- What is the Researcher Development Programme?
- How are sessions delivered?
- How do I book an RDP session?
- Spring and Summer Schools
- What topics are covered?
- Researcher Development Framework
- Need more information?
What is the Researcher Development Programme?
The Researcher Development Programme (RDP) is a University-wide programme of free training and development opportunities for:
- Postgraduate research (PGR) students
- Early career researchers
- Mid-career researchers
- Experienced researchers
- Research degree supervisors
The programme supports your professional development and helps you build the skills needed for successful research and future career progression.
How are sessions delivered?
RDP sessions are delivered:
- On campus
- Online
- By University staff and external experts
All sessions are free to attend.
How do I book an RDP session?
All Researcher Development Programme sessions can be booked through RSMS (Research Degrees Supervision Management System).
Spring and Summer Schools
The Researcher Development Programme also offers Spring and Summer Schools designed to support postgraduate researchers, particularly part-time students.
These multi-day events provide access to a range of development workshops and training sessions.
- Spring School usually takes place in April or May.
- Summer School usually takes place in September.
What topics are covered?
The Researcher Development Programme covers a wide range of research and professional development topics, including:
Research skills
- Literature reviews
- Research methods
- Data analysis
- Statistics
- Research ethics
- Academic writing
- Thesis preparation
Career development
- Research careers
- CV writing
- Interview skills
- Academic publishing
- Research funding applications
Personal effectiveness
- Time management
- Confidence building
- Wellbeing and resilience
- Managing stress
- Productivity skills
Research communication and impact
- Public speaking
- Presentations
- Research impact
- Social media
- Public engagement
Digital and AI skills
- Generative AI
- Data management
- Research software
- Open research practices
Researcher Development Framework
The programme is aligned with Vitae's Researcher Development Framework (RDF), which supports the knowledge, behaviours and attributes needed for successful research careers.
The framework covers:
- Knowledge and intellectual abilities
- Personal effectiveness
- Research governance and organisation
- Engagement, influence and impact
Learn more about the Vitae Researcher Development Framework.
Need more information?
For details of upcoming sessions and the latest programme information, visit RSMS and the Researcher Development Programme resources available through the University.