Postgraduate Researcher Support

Our Postgraduate Research (PGR) students are a vital part of the University’s research community, contributing to innovation, discovery, and the advancement of knowledge across a wide range of disciplines. We are committed to providing an enriching and supportive environment where our PGR students can develop both academically and professionally, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to excel in their research and future careers. 

We offer a variety of initiatives and resources to ensure our PGR students feel supported throughout their journey, including:

By offering these tailored resources and opportunities, we ensure that our PGR students feel valued, supported, and empowered throughout their research journey. Whether through academic development, career support, or wellbeing initiatives, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of research leaders.

Postgraduate Research training and events

We run a year-round programme of training and events to help you complete your doctorate and prepare for your future career.

Postgraduate Research training is organised around the three main phases of the research degree: beginning; middle; and completing the doctorate. Our tailored programme ranges from the doctoral induction, research methods and tools, research ethics, research management, public engagement and impact from research.

We also hold lots of other research-focused events where PGR students are invited to attend, such as:

Our PGR students also participate in the East Midlands Doctoral Network (EMDoc), enter the Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition and have the opportunity to become a member of our PGR Network on X.

Postgraduate Research Development Fund

Our PGR Development Fund supports students in their research development. If you are eligible, you can apply for funding to support a wide variety of purposes, such as attending training events or conferences. We make funds available at different points throughout the academic year and award them on a competitive basis.

Dedicated careers advice

We have careers advice available for our postgraduate research students through our Careers and Employment Service.

Whether your desired career is here at the University of Derby or elsewhere, in your current field or something different, we are committed to giving you impartial and independent career development and employability support, advice and guidance.

For example, we can help you to:

Supporting our international students

As well as having access to the University’s full range of student support and clubs and societies, our international students can also receive specific support from our International Student Centre. We also offer our students a free course on Academic English Language that is tailored specifically to their needs.