What we do:
The University Doctoral School (UDS) is here to support and enhance the postgraduate research (PGR) experience at the University of Birmingham. We are dedicated to:
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- Providing high-quality training and development opportunities
- Showcasing and celebrating PGR achievements through events and awards
- Fostering a vibrant, inclusive research culture
- Strengthening community and wellbeing support
- Collaborating with Colleges and central services like Careers Network, Library Services, and Registry to guide PGRs from induction to graduation
From the Postgraduate Research Festival to the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, and recognition schemes for outstanding publication and supervision, our initiatives are designed to empower, inspire, and connect postgraduate researchers.
Our sustainability commitment
We take our sustainability responsibilities seriously. In 2025, the University Doctoral School was proud to be awarded Bronze Green Impact Award for our sustainability initiative. We are committed to further reducing our environmental impact and embedding sustainable practices across everything we do.
Our team
Leadership and strategy
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- Professor Jessica Blair – Director of the University Doctoral School
- Dr Sammy Li – Assistant Director of Student Affairs (Postgraduate and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion)
- Tara Wittin – Head of University Doctoral School
Operations and communications
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- Kerrie Myers – Operations Manager
- Nadira Abdun – Communications & Operations Officer
- Lucy Batten – Data Officer
Administrative support
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- Victoria Upton – UDS Administrator
- Jameela Begum – Administrative Assistant
Careers and development
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- Dr Holly Prescott - Careers Adviser for Postgraduate Researchers
- Dr Georgina Hardy - Postgraduate Development Officer
Contact us:
For any questions you have about Westmere House or related to your PGR experience, please don't hesitate to get in touch with the University Doctoral School team via our email address, doctoralschool@contacts.ac.uk
Please note, we are unable to assist with PG Admissions queries. If you have any queries regarding the admissions process at the University, please see the Postgraduate Admissions FAQs. If you need to contact the University about your application please use the Postgraduate applicants query form. If you need to contact your College/School you can find contact details via the Our Colleges webpage.
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