Looking Back, Looking Forward: A Semester Filled with Milestones
Looking Back, Looking Forward: A Semester Filled with Milestones
The start of the New Year is a time to look back and reflect on all that the previous year has brought; moments of achievement, challenges overcome, and opportunities that shaped our research community. It is also a moment to look ahead and embrace the next steps of your research journey.
Looking Back
Our postgraduate research (PGR) community had an inspiring first semester. In October, the University Doctoral School (UDS) welcomed our second cohort of funded Black British PGRs under the 125th Anniversary Scholarship scheme. Selected for their academic excellence, these Scholars join our 2024-2025 cohort in continuing the University’s legacy of innovative research, as part of our 125th Anniversary celebrations.
A further highlight was Yuxuan Wu’s success at the national Vitae 3 Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, following her victory at the University of Birmingham 3MT finals in Spring 2025. Yuxuan’s research on ‘Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work – an example from medical imaging,’ received the prestigious Editor’s Choice Award; an achievement which recognises her outstanding communication and presentation abilities. Building on this, Yuxuan has now entered international U21 3MT Competition, representing the University on the global stage.
At the end of 2025 the UDS was pleased to launch a new Supervisor Development Programme, expanding on existing mandatory training to ensure that all supervisors feel equipped to support the PGR experience. We understand how vital your supervisor–researcher relationship is, and this programme is designed to strengthen that foundation. The pilot masterclass series brings supervisors together to explore topics such as neurodiversity awareness, cultural humility, and coaching‑based approaches to supervision. These sessions provide valuable space for reflection, skill‑building, and shared learning; ultimately helping to create a more supportive and inclusive research environment for every PGR.
What’s Coming Up This Semester
This semester, the UDS is excited to bring back our flagship events: 3MT and PG Research Festival, which includes the Research Poster Competition. These events are more than just dates in the calendar. They are opportunities to share your research, connect with fellow PGRs, and build valuable skills for your future. Whether you want to challenge yourself in 3MT or showcase your work at the Festival, this is your chance to get involved and make the most of what our vibrant research community has to offer.
Join the 2026 3 Minute Thesis Competition
You can sharpen your storytelling and share your research in a compelling way by presenting at the 2026 3MT competition. 3MT is the perfect challenge for PGRs who are looking to build academic confidence and raise their research profiles; with the winning entry progressing to represent the University at the Vitae and U21 3MT competitions. Register before 8 February!
Research Poster Competition
The UDS’ annual Research Poster Competition will take place on Tuesday 16 June as part of the PG Research Festival. This event is a great chance to showcase your research to academics, fellow PGRs, and the wider University community. More details will follow soon, but you can register your interest now via the RPC registration form. We look forward to seeing many of you showcase your research at this year’s Festival.
Explore More Events on the New “What’s On” PGR Page
The University has launched a dedicated space listing events designed just for PGRs. On the PGR What’s On Page you will find career workshops, research training, community events, and more.
In 2026 the University along with the UDS are bringing you a dynamic programme of events and opportunities and we look forward to seeing you there. Make sure you take part, get involved, and enjoy everything that this semester has to offer.