A professional development framework for doctoral students

The Researcher Development Framework (RDF) is the industry standard professional development framework for researchers.
Not only is professional development an expectation as a researcher it will also help you with your career development. We can help you through signposting training opportunities, as well as opportunities for you to develop your skills.
The Researcher Development Framework (RDF) is the industry standard professional development framework for researchers.
Professional development is a crucial element of doctoral study, not only in supporting your research, but also as part of your longer term career development.
Find out how to build an impressive set of transferable skills which can help you succeed in your doctorate and whatever you choose to do next
How to record training and other professional development activities in SAMIS
You can book onto our workshops and events, sign up for development opportunities and access online resources through MyDoctoralDevelopment.
A site for doctoral students to access training, learning resources and development opportunities.
We have a range of development opportunities that you can get involved with. These include opportunities to present, focus on your research or facilitate a roundtable or network.
Join us at a networking event to take a break from your research and meet other researchers.
Find out more about the Doctoral Roundtable series organised by the Doctoral College to help connect doctoral researchers with others to share their experiences
Find out how our virtual writing sessions and retreats can keep you motivated, reduce your levels of procrastination and help you achieve your writing goals.
Take part in the Three Minute Thesis (3MTĀ®) competition and develop valuable communication skills.
Find out more about Doctoral Research Focus Weeks and what is happening during the programme.
Find out why researchers are making time to develop their skills
Ionannis Costas Batlle, (PhD in Education) and now Lecturer in Education, reflects on the benefits of taking on different activities alongside doctoral study.
Jon Chouler, Phd researcher in the Department for Chemical Engineering, reflects on the all-round experience his PhD has given him so far.
Elizabeth Kaplunov, PhD Health Psychology researcher, reflects on the benefits of training and development.
The Doctoral Development Team provide the following to all doctoral students:
If you have any questions about any aspects of your development or our development programme please get in touch with the Team.