PGR Summer Newsletter
If you missed our July newsletter, you can catch up on all the latest updates by reading it here. This edition includes important information on changes to the Leave of Absence process, highlights from the PG Research Festival, details of upcoming summer workshops, and a range of other opportunities to get involved and make the most of your summer.
Introduction
Hello and welcome to the summer edition of your University Doctoral School (UDS) newsletter!
Whether you are just starting or continuing your research with us, the University Doctoral School (UDS) is here to support you and your PGR community. In this newsletter, we will provide key updates, signpost to important resources, and highlight upcoming events and opportunities exclusively for PGRs. Read on to explore what’s on offer.
Want to learn more about the UDS and how to be involved as a PGR? Follow the UDS on LinkedIn, check out the PGR What’s On page, and keep an eye on the UDS intranet for the latest updates.
Updates and Reminders
Changes to Leave of Absence process
From Wednesday 22 July, postgraduate researchers applying for a Leave of Absence (LOA) will be able to do so through a new online application form. The change will replace the existing paper-based form and will allow you to submit and track the progress of your application. Keep an eye on the Leave of Absence information page over the next week for more updates.
Summer Opening Times for the University
With the summer period now underway, some University services and buildings will operate reduced opening hours, including the Main Library, Student Hub and IT Services. Westmere House opening hours will remain unchanged. You can find more information on the University website here.
Westmere House
Westmere House is open throughout the summer, providing a dedicated space for postgraduate researchers to study and unwind. Facilities include large gardens, a study room with printer access, a lounge area, kitchen, showers, and a fully hybrid seminar space. Westmere is also available for PGR-led events and activities, with bookings open via the Westmere booking form.
PG Research Festival
The University's first month-long PG Research Festival took place throughout June, with a wide programme of conferences, careers workshops, networking events, skills sessions and research support activities.
We hope those of you who attended enjoyed the opportunity to develop new skills and connect with fellow researchers. As we begin planning for the 2027 Festival, we would really welcome your feedback on this year's programme.
Please could you take 5 minutes to complete our brief PG Research Festival survey. Whether you attended a PG Research Festival event or simply did not have the time, all feedback is welcome. As a thank you, respondents will be entered into a prize draw to win UDS-branded tote bags and lanyards.
Celebrating Success at the UDS Showcase
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the University Doctoral School Showcase on 16 June as part of this year's PG Research Festival.
Highlights included the annual Research Poster Competition, an inspiring keynote panel featuring award-winning researchers, and PGR Talks exploring the significance of Black-led postgraduate research. The day concluded with the University Doctoral School Awards Ceremony, celebrating the winners of the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition, Research Poster Competition, Michael O'Rourke Best Publication Awards, and the Excellence in Supervision Awards.
Congratulations to all our award winners and nominees! You can view the full list of winners in our latest UDS news story; make sure to pass on your congratulations if you recognise friends or colleagues!
If you were unable to attend, recordings from the Showcase are available on the UDS YouTube channel.
Events and Opportunities
UK Work Visas: What you need to know
International postgraduate researchers are invited to join the Careers Network and Ward Hadaway Law Firm on 3 August 12:30–13:00 for an in-person overview of the four main post-study work visa routes available in the UK. The session is a great opportunity to learn more about your options and ask questions about working in the UK after completing your studies or research. Register via the Careers Connect portal.
Summer workshops with the Library Research Skills Team
Research support from the Library Research Skills team continues over the summer, with a range of online and in-person workshops covering thesis submission and preparing for your viva, as well as the regular Shut Up and Work sessions. More information on timings and registration can be found on the PGR What’s On page.
Interdisciplinary conference: Reasons to Sing
All staff, students, and researchers are warmly invited to attend Reasons to Sing: Singing, Spirituality, and the Search for Meaning on 17-19 September, an interdisciplinary conference exploring the role of singing in human wellbeing, spirituality, and community. Bringing together scholars from a range of disciplines, the conference offers an excellent opportunity to engage with current research, discover new perspectives, and network with fellow researchers.
Summer Events at Winterbourne
Make the most of the summer months with a visit to Winterbourne House and Botanical Gardens. University staff and students can enjoy free entry to the house with a valid University ID card, alongside an exciting programme of summer events! Highlights include the Birmingham Jazz and Blues Festival, family-friendly craft activities, and Shakespeare performances on the lawn.
Community and Wellbeing
Wellbeing and Mental Health Support
Looking after your wellbeing is an important part of your postgraduate research experience. The University offers a range of support services to help PGRs This includes your local College Wellbeing Officers, who can offer 1-to-1 advice and guidance, the UBHeard 24/7 helpline, and the University Mental Health and Wellbeing service.
Support for research-related harassment
We know that being a researcher, especially when engaging with the public, can sometimes lead to harassment. If you have experienced harassment, intimidation, or are concerned about how to respond if it happens, recordings from the University’s Safe Enquiry webinar series are now available. These resources offer practical guidance on managing difficult situation, as well as information about wellbeing and safety support.
PGR Coaching
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Service is currently offering 1-to-1 Postgraduate Coaching. Coaching provides guided support for your postgraduate journey, with up to six individual sessions available. Coaching can help with issues such as imposter syndrome, building confidence, managing working relationships, and maintaining a healthy work and life balance.
PGR Conciliation
A positive relationship with your supervisor is an important part of the postgraduate research experience. If issues arise, we recommend contacting your PGR academic lead for support. Where challenges persist, PGR Conciliation provides a confidential and informal process to explore concerns with a trained conciliator and identify practical ways forward.