This initiative aims to create a welcoming and inclusive space for international PGRs, offering opportunities for networking, informal mentoring, and practical support.

Through regular online meetups, resource-sharing, and collaborative activities, the network will help researchers feel more connected and confident as they navigate academic and cultural transitions.

All international PGRs from across the University Alliance network are welcome to attend.

Meeting schedule

All meetings will be held via Zoom, please use the following link to join the meetings:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/8947183856?pwd=c2hucW9OdUpmM0dNTU9yQ0NWZy9mZz09
 
Meeting ID: 894 718 3856
Passcode: QPB9Q5

2025-26 Meetings

• Tuesday 21 October 2025 - 14:00-15:00
• Tuesday 27 January 2026 - 14:00-15:00
• Tuesday 28 April 2026 - 14:00-15:00
• Tuesday 28 July 2026 - 14:00-15:00

Any queries, please contact dta@unialliance.ac.uk

Session 1: PhD Myth Busting

•    Tuesday 21 October 2025 - 14:00-15:00

The introductory session aimed to welcome participants to the new network, outline its purpose and scope, and emphasise the values underpinning the initiative: inclusivity, peer led exchange, and cross institutional collaboration.

To support this, we invited Professor Steven Miles, Head of Greenwich Doctoral College, to deliver a keynote on PhD myth busting. This session was designed as a post induction conversation to help international PGRs navigate the expectations and realities of doctoral study, addressing common misconceptions and offering reassurance as they begin or continue their PhD journey.

Session 2: Communicating Research through Narrative Approach 

•    Tuesday 27 January 2026 - 14:00-15:00

Communicating PhD research through a narrative approach enables PGRs to transform complex academic work into accessible and compelling stories — a skill that is highly valuable for careers both within and beyond academia. 
This session explored how storytelling techniques could be applied to communicate complex research projects effectively. Narrative communication empowers PGRs to demonstrate the impact of their research, highlight transferable skills, and engage diverse audiences; all of which are essential for thriving in post-PhD careers. 

This session was led by Saheed Ibrahim, a PGR from Birmingham City University.  

Session 3: Applying for Associate Fellowship (AFHEA) as an International PGR

•    Tuesday 28 April 2026 - 14:00-15:00

This session is designed to support international PhD researchers across University Alliance universities in understanding how to work toward Associate Fellowship (AFHEA) during their doctoral studies. We will explore what AFHEA is, why it matters for your academic and professional development, and how your teaching or learning support experience can be used as evidence. The session will also outline the application process, offer practical guidance on preparing your submission, and create space for questions and peer discussion. Whether you are new to teaching or looking to strengthen your academic profile, this session will help you take confident steps toward professional recognition.

Session 4: Career Planning During Your PhD

•    Tuesday 28 July 2026 - 14:00-15:00

This session will support international PhD researchers across University Alliance universities to think proactively about their career development during the doctoral journey. We will explore how to identify your career interests early, recognise the skills and experience you may need, and make purposeful use of your time during the PhD so you feel confident and prepared for the job market when you finish.
A panel of international PhD graduates will also join us to share their experiences, insights, and practical advice on navigating career decisions during and after the doctorate.