PGR Community Newsletter May 2025
Summer of Research: PG Research Festival, 3MT Voting, Careers & Community Highlights!
Welcome to your Summer edition newsletter from the University Graduate School (UGS)! Whether you have just joined us this term or have been with us since the start of the academic year, we have an exciting lineup of events, workshops, and opportunities to help you grow personally and professionally throughout the hopefully sunny spring and summer months.
PG Research Festival – Secure Your Ticket!
Join us in celebrating 125 years of postgraduate research at the University of Birmingham. Part of UoB Xtra, the PG Research Festival takes place on 24 June showcasing the depth and diversity of PGR work through talks, a research poster exhibition, keynote speaker and awards ceremony. Connect with the wider University community, be inspired, and celebrate the impact of postgraduate research.
Book your ticket now!
PGR Talks – Apply to Present
Would you like to present at PGR Talks during the PG Research Festival 2025? Share how your research is shaping a better future on the themes: Life-Changing Technologies, Thriving Planet, or Fairer World. Submit your abstract by 18 May for the chance to showcase your work and raise your profile.
Submit an abstract
3MT People’s Choice Vote – Vote Now!
Congratulations to our Three Minute Thesis competition winners.
Now it’s your turn to cast your vote! Watch the finalists on our YouTube channel and vote for your favourite presentation for the People’s Choice Award by 24 June 2025 at 14:30. The winner will be announced at the UGS Awards Ceremony during the PG Research Festival.
Watch and vote
Enterprise
Emerging Researcher Innovation Challenge (ERIC) is an annual, multidisciplinary enterprise programme for PGRs. Develop entrepreneurial skills beneficial for research and future careers. Enhance your market research, design, collaboration, and presentation skills!
Apply now
Careers in Academia
This webinar series helps you plan an academic career and apply for academic jobs. Between May and June 2025, join the Leading Academics events for sessions on academic job applications, academic interviews, key drivers of the UK academic landscape, and more.
Dates and booking
Writing Summer School
Join the PGR Online Writing Summer School from Tues 8 July to Thurs 10 July for the PGR Online Writing Summer School 2025. Enhance your writing skills, practice within your research context, and boost your confidence. Programme details are coming soon. Meanwhile, explore past resources and save the dates!
Find out more
PGR Development Blog
The PGR Development Blog explores personal and professional development topics for PGRs. Each post aims to stimulate thought and guide you to resources for further development. The latest topic covers Annual Progress Reviews for Insightful Learning, offering valuable insights to benefit from this process.
Read the blog
Birmingham Pride Parade
Join the Birmingham Pride Parade 2025 celebrations on 24 May!
Celebrate and champion LGBTQ+ equality in Higher Education with the University of Birmingham and the Guild of Students. This is your opportunity to join the Birmingham Pride Parade, so don’t miss your chance to sign up!
Join the parade
Your Voice Matters
Your insights are vital! Participate in the Postgraduate Researcher Experience Survey (PRES) to help shape the future of the University by 27 May. Share your experiences and stand a chance to win £150. Your feedback will make an impact!
PGR Conciliation
Experiencing difficulties with your supervisor? PGR Conciliation provides confidential and voluntary support to help resolve issues and ensure you stay on track.
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