Researcher Development and Training

Alongside your research project, you will build specialist expertise in your field, grow in confidence as an independent researcher and develop a wide range of transferable skills that will support you in any future career.

Throughout your degree, you will participate in discipline-specific training, skills workshops, personal development activities, and wider research community events. This development is supported by your supervisory team, your School and the Aston Doctoral School.

Discipline-specific training

Your subject area forms the foundation of your development as a researcher. Discipline-specific training provides the specialist knowledge, methods and experience you need to carry out high-quality research in your field.

This training takes place within your research group or School and is often delivered in small groups or through one-to-one support from your supervisory team. It may include:

• Seminars and reading groups
• Workshops led by subject experts
• Laboratory, technical or data skills training
• Research design and methods sessions
• Access to specialist equipment and facilities
• One-to-one academic guidance and support

You will discuss your discipline-specific development needs with your supervisors soon after joining Aston and continue to review them as your research progresses.

Professional and personal development

Your research degree is also an opportunity to grow as a researcher and a professional. The Aston Doctoral School PGR Training Programme offers a wide range of online and in-person sessions designed to support you at every stage of your doctorate.

Early in your degree, you will complete a Development Needs Analysis (DNA). Working with your supervisors, this helps you reflect on your strengths, identify areas for development and plan the training that will best support your research and career goals.

Training covers both the practical skills needed to complete your research degree and broader skills that help you thrive during your doctorate and beyond

All training is open to every postgraduate researcher at Aston and coordinated through the Doctoral School to ensure you have access to the support you need throughout your research journey.