1. GRADUATE SCHOOL FORUM ESRC – proposed new PGR funding and training framework Purpose: 1.To outline ESRCs proposed new PGR funding model [based on Doctoral Training Centres] and revised training framework; 2.To discuss the implications of these for Lancaster; and 3.To consider the most appropriate way of managing the changes at Lancaster, including preparing a DTC bid. Thursday 19 th March 2009 11.00 am to 12.00 mid-day Bowland North Seminar Room 20

2. ESRC framework review  Evidence Surveys, institutional visits, focus groups, interviews  Focus Structure of training (1+3 model) Quality assurance mechanism (Recognition system) Studentship allocation models

3. Response to review  Delivery of training: introduction of national network of ‘recognised’ Doctoral Training Centres and Doctoral Training Units, to replace outlet and course recognition  Content of training: fundamental revision of the Postgraduate Training Guidelines with a stronger focus on core training provision alongside increased flexibility to develop discipline specific and interdisciplinary training pathways  Structure of training: introduction of more flexible 3,4 and exceptionally 5 year postgraduate training pathways

4. Doctoral Training Centres  National network of 25-30 DTCs Competitive peer review process  Centres of excellence in social science research & training High quality/coherent PG training infrastructure across range of social science disciplines Training provision beyond core training requirements High quality interdisciplinary training pathways Critical mass of PGR activities across the social sciences

5. DTC models  Single institution  where the research and training infrastructure across the social sciences is strong enough to support a DTC.  Collaborative  where more than one institution collaborate to provide the strength and depth of social science research and training excellence to create a DTC  ‘Interdisciplinary’  where an institution or collaborating institutions have a strong focus on high quality interdisciplinary research and training

6. DTC studentship allocations  Annual quota of studentships Likely range 5-40 awards per year Allocation by algorithm  Variables likely to include number of social science PGRs, submission rates, volume of ESRC research grants, RAE>2, RAE research environment Allocation set for 5 years, review after 3 Allocation informed by strategic steer from ESRC and some local autonomy

7. DTCs (around 25 in number) Excellence in research (around 10 disciplines) Coherent core training across disciplines Directly offer advanced/specialist training Training in around 10 disciplines Interdisciplinary training Critical mass of around 300+ FTE PGRs Quota allocation of studentships for 5 years Apply in open studentship competitions and other schemes Will contribute directly to Council's broader Strategic goals DTUs (around 25 in number) Excellence in research (at least 5 disciplines) Coherent core training across disciplines Strategy for accessing advance/specialist training Training in at least 5 disciplines Interdisciplinary training Critical mass of around 150+ FTE PGRs No quota allocation of studentships Apply in open studentship competitions and other schemes

8. Structure of training  Greater flexibility Funding up to 4 years for PhD +3, 1+3, 2+2, +4, exceptionally 2+3  Recycling of studentships If student withdraws Same or different discipline Part-funding: ESRC at least 50%  Content of training General research skills Research methods framework Transferable skills

9. Key dates  Call for applications – Oct/Nov2009  Deadline for submission of applications – April 2010  Peer review assessment – April/May 2010  ESRC Training and Development Board agrees DTU/DTC network and quota allocations – July 2010  Institutions informed of outcome – Sept/Oct 2010  Students start under revised framework- Oct 2011