Wednesday 08-11-2023 - 00:00

As November unfolds, the DTA in collaboration with Leeds Beckett University will be welcoming the newest cohort of aspiring researchers to the University Alliance’s coordinated Doctoral Training Alliance (DTA) Future Societies programme at its Autumn Connect 2023 event. This event, scheduled for November 16 and 17, marks the beginning of an exciting journey for these new PhD students and their supervisors.

Embracing Innovation and Collaboration
The aim of the event is to welcome and integrate these doctoral researchers into the programme. However, it's more than just a welcome; it's an opportunity to introduce them to a network of peers and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

The DTA Future Societies programme is a collective effort involving doctoral researchers from nine Alliance members. This collaborative venture stands out for its core principle: supporting solutions-driven research that addresses the most pressing global challenges. Guided by the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), these PhD projects are aligned with the research priorities of the participating universities.

Enriching Engagement Opportunities
This month is not just about the welcoming event; it's a packed schedule that aims to empower and equip researchers from all cohorts with key skills to support their PhD careers. It's a month bursting with opportunities, from informative seminars to engaging workshops.

November also sees Dr Heather Sears, Head of Researcher Capability and Development, Coventry University, as guest speaker at our monthly seminar series. The session promises insights into Heather’s career journey from PhD to Researcher Developer via the world of academia. 

Moreover, November offers an array of online workshops developed and delivered by the DTA team, in collaboration with DTA university partners and external training experts. Covering a diverse range of topics, these workshops touch upon crucial aspects such as leveraging social media for research, strategic planning for one's PhD journey, focusing on the final year, and the invaluable pursuit of finding a mentor.

Looking Ahead
This event isn't merely a welcoming gesture; it's a gateway to a community driven by innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to tackle the world's challenges. The DTA Future Societies programme, guided by a dedication to the UN's SDGs, stands as a beacon of hope for a better, more sustainable future.

We're thrilled to welcome our newest cohort and look forward to the incredible contributions they'll make towards a brighter tomorrow.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights as we progress throughout the academic year.