UDS January 2026 Newsletter

Welcome 

Welcome to the January 2026 edition of your  University Doctoral School (UDS) postgraduate researcher (PGR) newsletter!  

Whether you are just starting or continuing your research with us, the 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 for PGRs. Read on to explore what is on offer and make the most of the new semester.   

Updates and Reminders  

Authorised Absence and FAQs for International PGRs  

Are you an international PGR on a Student Visa? It is important that you are up to date with the latest guidelines on how to apply for an authorised absence and follow the right processes. You can find more information and FAQs for international PGRs on the University intranet.  

UDS Intranet  

Your UDS intranet is where you can find information on the support, resources, and opportunities we offer to you as a PGR. This includes support with your training and development, our annual events such as 3MT, as well as information on how to book the seminar, lounge, or garden spaces at Westmere House, your dedicated PGR hub. 

PGR What’s On Page 

Being a Postgraduate Researcher (PGR) is about more than writing a thesis. Explore events and activities created just for you - whether you are looking to develop new skills, connect with the PGR community, or take the next step in your career. Visit the new PGR What’s On page to see what’s coming up, and don’t forget to bookmark it so you never miss an update.  

Report + Support 

The University’s Report + Support service provides help to anyone in the University community affected by harmful behaviours, including harassment, bullying, discrimination, or sexual violence. The service offers confidential advice and the option to report anonymously – with a new section now providing tailored guidance and resources specifically for PGRs. 

Events and Opportunities  

Three Minute Thesis (3MT) 2026  

The Three Minute Thesis (3MT) is an internationally recognised competition challenging doctoral researchers to present their research in just three minutes. 3MT is a fantastic opportunity to build confidence, develop your communication skills, and share your research with audiences across the University and beyond. The University 3MT Final takes place on 25 March, with the winner progressing to the national Vitae and international U21 competitions. Registration closes on Sunday 8 February. 

Interested in 3MT but not sure about signing up? Register for our online drop-in and Q&A on Tuesday 3 February 2-4pm, where we can talk through and answer any questions. 

PG Research Festival: Research Poster Competition 

The UDS is excited to announce our annual Research Poster Competition (RPC) returns on Tuesday 16 June as part of the PG Research Festival. This annual event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your research to academics, fellow researchers, and the wider University community. Whether you are exploring ancient cultures and archaeology, conducting ground-breaking cancer research, or delving into global climate justice, all PGRs are encouraged to take part in this year's competition. More information on the competition will be coming soon, but in the meantime, you can register your interest via our RPC registration form here.  

Submit your PGR Story  

Every postgraduate researcher’s journey is different. Whether you’re studying full-time, balancing research with work or family commitments, or experiencing life in the UK for the first time, every PGR is part of our diverse and global community. Help us celebrate and showcase our PGR community through submitting a written or video testimonial for our PGR Stories page. 

Emerging Researchers Innovation Challenge (ERIC) 

ERIC is a programme running 28-29 July, designed to help postgraduate researchers develop entrepreneurial thinking and transferable skills. ERIC offers a unique opportunity for you to tackle real-world challenges and build your problem-solving skills. Sign up by the 15 March or contact benterprising@contacts.bham.ac.uk for further information. 

Guild Officer Elections  

Your annual Guild Officer Elections are coming soon! The Guild of Students is on the lookout for people who are interested in becoming a Guild Officer in 2026-2027 – this includes the role of Postgraduate Officer, responsible for championing and supporting the postgraduate experience. The deadline for registration is 13 February. Further information and the application form can be found on the Guild of Students webpages.  

British Federation of Women Graduates Academic Awards  

The British Federation of Women Graduates (BFWG) offers opportunities for networking and effective action. Their annual BFWG Academic Awards reward academic excellence with prizes of up to £6000 for women in their second year of doctoral research (or part-time equivalent). You can find more information on criteria and how to apply on the BFWG website.   

EUniWell Events and Opportunities 

The European University for Wellbeing (EUniWell) is an alliance of eleven European universities, promoting well-being through research, education, and social action. They offer a broad range of resources, events, and development opportunities for PGRs, helping you broaden your horizons, expand your networks, and develop skills beyond your research.  

PGR Awards 

The Michael K. O’Rourke Best Publication Award and the Awards for Excellence in Doctoral Research Supervision celebrate and champion outstanding PGR publications and exceptional doctoral supervision. Whether you have recently published an outstanding paper, or if your supervisor has gone above and beyond in supporting your research, submit your nominations before the Sunday 19 April.  

Community and Wellbeing 

Wellbeing and Mental Health Support  

We know that completing postgraduate research can be challenging and isolating. Many PGRs may struggle with feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or lonely. This is your reminder that as a postgraduate researcher there are a range of different services and support networks at the University to help you. This includes your local College Wellbeing Officers, who can offer 1-to-1 advice and guidance, the Pause drop-ins on campus, the UBHeard 24/7 helpline, and the University Mental Health and Wellbeing service. The UDS also offers more PGR-specific help via our online coaching and PGR Conciliation services, outlined below.  

Online Group Coaching for PGRs 

Feeling stuck, unmotivated, or unsure how to move forward in your research? Online Group Coaching sessions, led by Dr Vikki Wright (The PhD Life Coach), offer practical strategies to help you regain confidence and keep your research moving forward. These sessions are designed to support you throughout your programme and provide tools and resources for your progress. 

PGR Conciliation 

We know that your relationship with your supervisor is central to a positive PGR 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.