Institute for Academic Development University of Edinburgh Doctoral education – the role of skills training Dr. Jon Turner Institute for Academic Development, University of Edinburgh

Institute for Academic Development University of Edinburgh Themes Case studies Issues to consider

Institute for Academic Development University of Edinburgh Changing face of doctoral education Apprenticeship model of sole supervision Unstructured Little formal training Isolated Preparation for academic career Supervisory teams Structured progression and training Emphasis on formal training (specialist and transferable skills) Joining postgraduate and academic community Preparation for broader range of careers (including academia) Improved researcher experience Higher completion rates

Institute for Academic Development University of Edinburgh Variability, complexity and flexibility Purpose of doctoral education Doctoral programme structures Central vs local provision Collaboration in skills training –Pools, disciplines, networks Risk of overload Impact on doctoral researchers, especially part-time and international

Institute for Academic Development University of Edinburgh ResClim - Norwegian Research School in Climate Dynamics ( Need for a new type of scientist: Expert knowledge in depth Broader knowledge – climate system complex interactions Networking and collaboration Communication Ability to take active part in prediction, mitigation and adaptation Activities funded: Intensive courses International workshops International summer schools Biannual symposium Annual meeting (students and supervisors) International research visits and conferences

Institute for Academic Development University of Edinburgh Researcher-led initiatives E-journals and conferences Communities of postgraduate researchers Experience of academic publication and communication Linked to formal and informal training Workshops and seminars Networking and social events

Institute for Academic Development University of Edinburgh Part-Time Researcher Conference Collaboration: Universities, Vitae Hub, SFC Designed for part-time PhD researchers & research staff: –Including professional doctorates and distance –Based on feedback from part-time researchers –High quality venue, major event –Informed by activities tried by institutions Content: –network with colleagues from diverse research areas & universities; –develop professional skills; –consider future careers; –Meet service providers from universities across Scotland and Northern Ireland. Evaluation and impact vitae.ac.uk/policy-practice/ /Part-Time-Researcher-Conference.html

Institute for Academic Development University of Edinburgh University of Edinburgh Principal’s Career Development PhD Scholarships 60 new scholarships, open to all applicants & fields of study Include additional career development opportunities: –University teaching –Public engagement –Enterprise First scholarship holders arrive in September

Institute for Academic Development University of Edinburgh Issues Diversity and flexibility of provision –Positives and risks Collaboration in skills training –Disciplinary, across Scotland, internationally International experience –Within institutions –Encouraging mobility during doctorate For benchmarking project –Think holistically –Identify both strengths and areas for enhancement