University of Birmingham launches new Doctoral School
The University of Birmingham has officially launched its new University Doctoral School (UDS), marking a major step forward in how we support and celebrate postgraduate researchers (PGRs). Announced during the annual Postgraduate Research Festival by Professor Rachel O’Reilly, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research, the launch highlights the University’s ongoing commitment to research excellence—and the people who make it happen.
Led by Professor Jessica Blair, the Director of the UDS, this new structure builds on the work of the former University Graduate School. It has been designed to better meet the needs of those undertaking doctoral and research masters degrees, while also strengthening the research environment across the University.
While the UDS is focused on enhancing the experience of postgraduate researchers, its impact reaches across our whole academic community—including undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate taught (PGT) students. Many of you are already engaged in research-led learning or considering the next step in your academic journey. The UDS reflects the University’s investment in your future and the research culture you are part of.
The UDS will support postgraduate researchers by:
• Delivering high-quality training and development opportunities
• Fostering a vibrant and inclusive research culture
• Providing improved wellbeing and community support
These priorities are based on feedback from the Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES) and direct engagement with the PGR community. The UDS also works closely with Careers Network, Library Services, Registry, and Colleges to ensure postgraduate researchers are supported throughout their journey—from induction to graduation and beyond. The UDS will continue to deliver key events and initiatives that many students across all levels can engage with or aspire to, including:
• The Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition
• The Postgraduate Research Festival
• Awards recognising excellence in research and supervision
These events provide valuable insight into the world of research, and often offer opportunities for undergraduate and PGT students to connect with current researchers, explore new ideas, and consider postgraduate pathways.
Looking ahead, several new developments will further enhance the visibility and accessibility of research at Birmingham:
• A redesigned UDS website for easy access to resources
• A new PGR Hub bringing key information together in one place
• A LinkedIn presence launching in summer 2025 to support networking and showcase achievements
• New training and development programmes for the next academic year
Spaces like Westmere House and regular UDS communications will help ensure that postgraduate researchers remain connected, supported, and part of a thriving community.
As Professor O’Reilly stated, the UDS is a renewed commitment to inclusivity, support, and research excellence. For those considering a future in research— whether through a master’s degree, a PhD, or a research-related career—the UDS signals the University’s dedication to helping every researcher feel valued, heard, and empowered to succeed.
The launch of the University Doctoral School opens an exciting new chapter for research at Birmingham—one that benefits the whole student body by creating a stronger, more connected research culture for all.