Researcher development

About the project

Find out how our training develops your research skills and equips you for a successful career.

Training and support for you

We provide a year-round programme of workshops and events to help you complete your research degree and prepare for your future career.

Whether you have a background in research or are new to postgraduate study, we cater for all levels of experience. We offer face-to-face and online opportunities for developing your research, personal and professional skills.

Our training provision is guided by University strategy, the UK Research Councils and the Researcher Development Framework .

This means that there are a range of training options available, so you can choose the right activities for you at each stage of your research journey.

You'll also benefit from the chance to network with fellow Postgraduate Researchers across the University and gain access to the Sussex Research Hive , a designated area for researchers in the Library.

Workshops and events

Develop your skills through our workshops and events. These focus on:

You’ll also have the opportunity to enter the globally-recognised Three Minute Thesis competition, sharing your PhD research with the University and beyond.

• library and academic skills – learn how to carry out literature searches, manage your research data and references, and keep up-to-date with the latest research in your field
• the doctoral process – from strategies and support when you start your PhD, to how to write a literature review, write and edit your thesis and prepare for your final year
• effective communication, wellbeing, planning and time management skills
• communicating research – enhance your academic writing, develop your presentation skills and learn how to create engaging visuals
• engagement and impact – explore how public engagement can benefit your research and how your research can impact society
• open research – from core principles to practical tools and publishing and how to handle your research ethically
• career development – discover careers and entrepreneurship opportunities in and outside of academia, and get useful advice on preparing your CV and applying for jobs after your doctorate.

Online training

We offer research skills training through a series of online modules, so you can access what you need in a format that works for you, wherever you are.

Our online modules and workshop recordings include:

• skills for starting your doctorate
• writing tips for researchers
• using data analysis software such as SPSS and R
• library search skills
• working with your supervisor
• preparing for your viva.

Contact us

Sussex Researcher School researcher-school@sussex.ac.uk

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You might also be interested in

• how to apply for a PhD
• funding for postgraduate research
• guide to PhD study .

Research areas