Researcher Development Programme Handbook 2023-24 by University of Hertfordshire

Researcher Development Programme Handbook 2023–2024

For Staff and Students herts.ac.uk

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Researcher Development Programme Handbook 2023–2024  

For Staff and Students Doctoral College University of Hertfordshire Welcome Introduction Researcher Development Framework Summer and Spring Schools The Programme 2023/24 Sessions on offer Online Provision About the Contributors Additional Support at UH Index

A UK-wide process, incorporating the QAA Code of Practice for Research Degree Programmes and the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers, enables institutions to gain the European Commission’s ‘HR Excellence in Research’ badge, acknowledging alignment with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for their Recruitment © University of Hertfordshire

4 Researcher Development Programme Handbook

Contents Welcome 5 Introduction 6 Researcher Development Framework

Summer and Spring Schools

The Programme 2023/2024

Sessions on offer

Online Provision

About the Contributors

Additional Support at UH

Information about the Researcher Development Programme 2023/2024 and a copy of this booklet is available on HertsHub, RSMS and the University’s Website: https://www.herts.ac.uk/research/research-management/research-development/ research-student-development

Welcome Dear research students and staff We are delighted to present the 2023-2024 Researcher Development Programme (RDP) at the University of Hertfordshire (UH). The RDP has been put together to provide a diverse range of workshops, online resources, events and collaborative activities to support research students and staff development throughout their studies by ensuring they are provided with excellent transferable skills to prepare them for their future career. These sessions will be delivered by experienced academic and professional colleagues who are experts in their field. They are committed to building on what you know and what you need to learn, by engaging with your interests, building on your valuable experience, and providing you with continuous support. The RDP is delivered in three main forums, the main programme listed in this handbook, and our popular annual Spring and Summer Schools (see page 14) which provide additional support for our part-time research students.

It is important that you continually reflect on your skillset and actively engage in your development. Use the Vitae wheel (page 9) to assist you when discussing training needs with your supervisors, research leads and line managers. The RDP follows the standards set out by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the UK’s Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). It is also mapped against the Vitae’s Researcher Development Framework (RDF), which has become a de facto sector standard for comprehensive research training in the UK. We hope you take advantage of the opportunities offered in this comprehensive handbook. By taking part you will come away with an impressive network of colleagues, contacts, and friends which forms the vibrant research community at UH. We wish you all the best in your studies. The Doctoral College

RDP Manager Dr Shori Thakur 01707 285161 s.n.1.thakur@herts.ac.uk

RDP Team Leader Nicola Bates 01707 284798 n.bates3@herts.ac.uk

RDP Administrator Lynne Mee 01707 284017 rdp@herts.ac.uk

6 Researcher Development Programme Handbook

Introduction Induction for Research Students Research students are required to complete two induction levels, both of which are mandatory. We recommend that both levels are undertaken within one month of enrolment. 1 Research Student Induction This is provided online through AskHerts. 2. School/Department Induction Doctoral College Administrators will inform students about the programme relevant to them, at which point details of local working arrangements will be explained and introductions made to key staff. You are required to complete your induction checklist on RSMS and have it signed by your Principal Supervisor. The Doctoral College will sign this off once you have completed the required mandatory online RDP sessions. If you have any queries regarding the induction process, please contact the Doctoral College Team either by email: research-degrees@herts.ac.uk or phone your Doctoral College Administrator (contact details in the Doctoral College Handbook)

Induction for Research Staff The University offers a comprehensive and timely induction process for new researchers consisting of four main components – Central Induction, HR Welcome, Local Induction and the Research Office induction. • HR Welcome – attendance on the first day of employment at the University ensures completion of essential right to work and other paperwork including pay details. Brief overview of HertsHub and HR Portal systems as well as staff benefits and other logistics. • Central Induction – a half-day event offering an overview of the University’s strategy, systems and employment benefits. Includes presentations from senior management, a market place with key departments, lunch and networking opportunities. • Research Office Induction – covering information regarding Research Office support services and processes. • Local Induction – new starters are introduced to their role, team, practices, policies and procedures at a local level. A vital element of this is providing information about emergency procedures and local health and safety information. Line managers are responsible for the overall induction of their new staff and can locate guidance and a generic checklist on HertsHub.

Booking and Attendance RDP sessions can be booked online via the Research Degrees Supervision Management System (RSMS) https://rsms.herts.ac.uk. Once you are logged in, make sure the ‘current role’ selected is PGR Student (if you are a student) or RDP Training (Staff) (if you are a member of staff). ‘RDP’ will then be an option on the blue menu bar. You can also book by emailing rdp@herts.ac.uk. Further information on how to book, including a ‘How to’ guide for booking via RSMS, can be found on the Booking and Attendance page of the RDP HertsHub site. Most sessions are open to all research students and staff but some sessions are specific to staff only, therefore please check before booking. If a session is full when you try to book, you will be placed on the waiting list and will be notified if a place becomes available. Repeat sessions may be arranged based on the number of people booked on the waiting list. Please note: out of consideration for your PGR colleagues and those who deliver these sessions, please arrive on time and if you are no longer able to make it, please cancel your place via RSMS or by emailing rdp@herts.ac.uk. Where a participant fails to attend a session they have booked but not cancelled, a penalty may be incurred. If you have any queries about booking and attendance, please contact the RDP Team by emailing rdp@herts.ac.uk

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Researcher Development Framework The Researcher Development Framework (RDF) is a significant approach to developing world-class researchers. It is a professional development framework for planning, promoting and supporting the personal, professional and career development of researchers in higher education programmes of related studies. The RDF is structured in four domains comprising knowledge and intellectual abilities, personal effectiveness, research governance and organisation, and engagement, influence and impact. Each domain contains three sub-domains and associated descriptors. Increasingly the RDF has become a defacto national benchmark in researcher development, against which our programme is also mapped.

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10 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Researcher Development Framework

Domain A: Knowledge and Intellectual Abilities • Advanced Excel For Data Management And Analysis • An Introduction To Academic Publishing • An Introduction To Sketch Engine • Approaching The Literature Review • Becoming A Member Of Your Discipline • Building a Second Brain? How To Turn A Notes App Into A Personal Research Assistant • Creative Story Telling: Selling Your Research To An Audience • Creative Thinking And Problem Solving • Critical Reading & Research-oriented Writing • Critical Thinking • Data Analysis In R • Developing Precision And Concision Through Microwriting • Dissertation • Establishing Good Writing Habits • Expanding Your Access To Resources For Your Research • Getting Started With Statistics • Getting Started With UH Library Services And Resources • Getting To Know R • GitHub • How To Write A Scientific Paper And Get It Published • How To Write And Publish A Paper • How To Write Your Thesis • Inferential Statistics • Interviewing In Qualitative Research • Introduction To Excel • Introduction To NVivo

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Introduction To Statistics Introduction to Systematic Reviews Literature Review Literature Searching: Using Online Resources Making Sense Of The Literature Review Mendeley Reference Manager: A Hands On Approach Qualitative Data Analysis: Methods And Techniques Qualitative Methods Quantitative Analysis Of Survey Data Quantitative Data Analysis 1: Hypothesis Testing, Sample Size & Power Quantitative Data Analysis 2: Correlation & Regression Methods Survey Design & Analysis 1: Collecting, Summarising & Analysing Survey Data Survey Design & Analysis 2: Data Analysis, Sample Size & Power Systematic Literature Reviews Technical Writing There Is Nothing So Practical As A Good Theory Thesis Writing Bootcamp: Planning, Finishing & Avoiding Pitfalls Translating Your Research Interest Into A Programme Of Research Using Multiple Qualitative And Visual Methods In Research Writing A Literature Review With Zotero and Obsidian Writing A Winning Research Proposal Writing For And Submitting To A Journal

Domain B: Personal Effectiveness • Assertiveness & Resilience • Cvs, Application Forms And Personal Statements • How Not To Procrastinate (Or The Secret To Getting Started) • How To Be An Effective Researcher • How To Be More Confident • How To Cope With Stress • How To Succeed At Interviews And Assessment Centres • Imposter Syndrome Essentials • Internal Examiner Training • Managing Pressure Positively • Maximise Your Memory • Narrative Cvs • Overcoming Challenges: Research, Resilience And You

• Poster Presentation • Project Management For Researchers (Pgr And Postdoc) • Rapid Reading • Reflexivity • Seven Habits Of Highly Effective Researchers • The British Phd And How To Bag One • The Viva And Process Of Research Degree Examination • Thriving Resiliently During Your Doctorate • Understanding & Planning For A Research Career • Writing For And Submitting To A Journal

12 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Researcher Development Framework

Domain C: Research Governance and Organisation

Domain D: Engagement, Influence and Impact

• A Guide to Applying for External Research Funding for New Researchers • Agile Project Management and Teamwork • Attracting Your Own Research Funding: Writing & Applying for Fellowships • Data Protection Law • First and Second Progress Assessments • Grant Writing Workshop for Phd and Msc by Research Students • Intellectual Property Law • Managing Research Projects • Nhs Research Ethics • Open Access: How It Can Help You • Open Research: Purpose, Benefits, and What It Means for You • Raising the Visibility of Your Research • Research Data Management • Research Ethics • Turnitin • What to Consider When Selecting a Journal for Your Research Paper • Writing a Winning Research Proposal

• Agile Project Management and Teamwork • An Introduction To Academic Publishing • Build A Research Website In 3 Hrs • Communicating Your Research Online: Digital Tools, Strategy & Impact • Creative Story Telling: Selling Your Research To An Audience • Figures, Images & Visualising Information • Getting Published & Promoting Your Research • Introduction To Research Impact • Poster Presentation • Public Speaking For Pgrs And Academics • Seven Habits Of Highly Effective Researchers • Social Media Bootcamp: Strategy, Digital Profiles & Connecting • What To Consider When Selecting A Journal For Your Research Paper • Working With Supervisors

Flowchart for RDP Courses in Quantitative Methods and Software Delivered by SSCU This chart is a guide which shows the different RDP courses being delivered by the Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU) and the prerequisites that each course requires. After the common “Getting Started with Stats” course, delegates may want to choose the “Survey Design & Analysis” stream (aimed at those doing research involving surveys of people) or the “Quantitative Data Analysis” stream (aimed at those doing research involving experiments, etc.). Delegates may also want to undertake courses specific to the R software and/or Excel. Arrows show pre-requisites for courses. Ideally, students/ staff should attend the prior courses (or already have the equivalent prior knowledge) before attending a course Survey Design & Analysis

Getting Started with Statistics

Introduction to Excel

Quantitative Data Analysis

AND Collecting, Summarising & Analysing Survey Data

Hypothesis Testing, Sample Size & Power

Further Data Analysis, Sample Size & Power

Correlation & Regression Methods

Getting to Know R

Advanced Excel for Data Management and Analysis

OR AND

Methods-oriented courses (using Excel/SPSS)

Data Analysis in R

Software oriented courses

14 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Researcher Development Framework

Summer and Spring Schools Each year the RDP runs a Summer School and a Spring School. They provide great opportunities to meet with other researchers, to share ideas and thoughts and to develop new research skills.

The Schools are scheduled for: Summer School 2023: Wednesday 13 to Friday 15 September 2023. The 2023 Summer School will be held on campus, in room L280, de Havilland LRC Spring School 2024: Thursday 16 to Saturday 18 May 2024. The 2024 Spring School will be held on campus, in room L280, de Havilland LRC If you would like further information or to book your place, please visit the ‘RDP Spring/ Summer School’ pages on HertsHub or email rdp@herts.ac.uk.

“ Very helpful with sharing concrete skills and highlighting the key points of doing research.” “ Exceeded all expectation – thoroughly important and enjoyable.” “ Expectations met fully – I really enjoyed this session, the real world examples were interesting and the exercises were useful.”

“ Really engaging, informative, useful and interesting.” “ Very useful, very clear, very practical.” “ It was a useful opportunity to discuss my research and its relevance, and to understand how this relevance might be translated into impact.”

The Programme 2023-2024 Session

RDF Page Domain

A Guide To Applying For External Research Funding For New Researchers (Research Staff Only)

A Guide To Applying For External Research Funding For New Researchers (Research Students Only)

Advanced Excel For Data Management And Analysis

Agile Project Management and Teamwork

C2, D1

An Introduction To Academic Publishing

A2, D2 20

An Introduction to Sketch Engine

Approaching The Literature Review

Assertiveness & Resilience

Attracting Your Own Research Funding: Writing & Applying For Fellowships

Becoming A Member Of Your Discipline

Build A Research Website In 3 Hours

Building A Second Brain? How To Turn A Notes App Into A Personal Research Assistant

Communicating Your Research Online: Digital Tools, Strategy & Impact

Creative Story Telling: Selling Your Research To An Audience

A3, D2 25

Creative Thinking And Problem Solving

Critical Reading & Research-oriented Writing

Critical Thinking

Cross Disciplinary Research Method

Cvs, Application Forms And Personal Statements

Data Analysis In R

Data Protection Law

Developing Precision And Concision Through Microwriting

Dissertation

Establishing Good Writing Habits

Expanding Your Access To Resources For Your Research

A1, A3

Figures, Images & Visualising Information

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Session

RDF Page Domain

First And Second Progress Assessments

Getting Published And Promoting Your Research

Getting Started With Statistics

Getting Started With UH Library Services And Resources

Getting To Know R

GitHub

Grant Writing Workshop For Phd And Msc By Research Students

How Not To Procrastinate (Or The Secret To Getting Started)

How To Be An Effective Researcher

B1, B2

How To Be More Confident

How To Cope With Stress

How To Succeed At Interviews And Assessment Centres

How To Write A Scientific Paper (And Get It Published)

How To Write And Publish A Paper

How To Write Your Thesis

Imposter Syndrome Essentials

Inferential Statistics

Intellectual Property Law

Internal Examiner Training

Interviewing In Qualitative Research

Introduction To Excel

Introduction To NVivo

Introduction To Research Impact

Introduction To Statistics

Introduction to Systematic Reviews

Literature Review

Literature Searching: Using Online Resources

Making Sense Of The Literature Review

Managing Pressure Positively

Managing Your Reading And References With Zotero

Maximise Your Memory

Mendeley Reference Manager: A Hands On Approach

Narrative Cvs: The What, The Why And The How

NHS Research Ethics

Open Access: How It Can Help You

Open Research: Purpose, Benefits, And What It Means For You

Overcoming Challenges: Research, Resilience And You

Session

RDF Page Domain

Poster Presentation

B3, D3 54

Project Management For Researchers (PGR And Postdoc)

Public Speaking For PGRs And Academics

Qualitative Data Analysis: Methods And Techniques

Qualitative Methods

Quantitative Analysis Of Survey Data

Quantitative Data Analysis 1: Hypothesis Testing, Sample Size & Power

Quantitative Data Analysis 2: Correlation & Regression Methods

Raising The Visibility Of Your Research

Rapid Reading

Reflexivity

Research Data Management

Research Degrees Supervisor Training

Research Ethics

Seven Habits Of Highly Effective Researchers

B1, B2, 61 D1

Social Media Bootcamp: Strategy, Digital Profiles & Connecting

Survey Design & Analysis 1: Collecting, Summarising & Analysing Survey Data

Survey Design & Analysis 2: Data Analysis, Sample Size & Power

Systematic Literature Reviews

Teaching And Supporting Learning - PGCert THE

Technical Writing

The British Phd And How To Bag One

The Viva And Process Of Research Degree Examination

There Is Nothing So Practical As A Good Theory

Thesis Writing Bootcamp: Planning, Finishing & Avoiding Pitfalls

Thriving Resiliently During Your Doctorate

Translating Your Research Interest Into A Programme Of Research

TurnItIn

Understanding & Planning For A Research Career

Using Multiple Qualitative And Visual Methods In Research

What To Consider When Selecting A Journal For Your Research Paper

C1, D2

Working With Supervisors

Writing A Literature Review With Zotero And Obsidian

Writing A Winning Research Proposal

A3, C3 77

Writing For And Submitting To A Journal

A2, B2 78

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Sessions on Offer Please note: At times, due to circumstances beyond our control, changes can occur relating to the date, time and/or location of a session, and in rare instances, session cancellation. Check your University email for updates, especially before setting off to attend a session.

A Guide To Applying For External Research Funding For New Researchers (Research Staff Only) On: Thursday 2 November 2023, 11.00-12.00, online via MSTeams The session will provide an overview of what research is, the types of funding opportunities that are available and how the Research Office can help. It is also an opportunity to meet other early career researchers from across the University and to ask any pressing questions you may have about finding funding for your research.

“Good overview of where to look, advice on what to do.” Facilitators: Supramade Rajiv and Tara Stebnicky

A Guide To Applying For External Research Funding For New Researchers (Research Students Only) On: Tuesday 20 February 2024, 11.00-12.00, online via MSTeams The session will provide an overview of what research is, the types of funding opportunities that are available and how the Research Office can help. It is also an opportunity to meet other early career researchers from across the University and to ask any pressing questions you may have about finding funding for your research. Facilitators: Supramade Rajiv and Tara Stebnicky

Advanced Excel For Data Management & Analysis On: Wednesday 20 March 2024, 13.00-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus This workshop is the second in the “Excel” stream and is aimed at those who want to use Excel for more advanced data management and analysis tasks. It includes the following topics. • Exploring data – sorting and filtering • Further formulae • Pivot tables & charts • Conditional formatting • Summarising and analysing data using charts, functions and the Analysis Toolpak It is assumed that delegates have attended the “Introduction to Excel” course or are already confident in using Excel. It is also assumed that delegates have attended the “Getting Started with Statistics” course or already have a good knowledge of the material in that course. The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU) will run this session. The Unit undertakes research and commercial work in Statistics across the University and for external businesses and organisations. Details of all SSCU’s courses on the RDP programme can be found at https://tinyurl.com/SSCU-RDP23-24. Facilitator: The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU)

Agile Project Management and Teamwork On: Tuesday 26 March 2024, 10.00-13.00, L280, de Havilland LRC Synopsis TBC Facilitator: Dr Marija Cubric

20 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

An Introduction To Academic Publishing On: Thursday 16 November 2023, 09:30-16:00, online via Zoom Publishing your work and sharing your findings is a key component of a successful research career. A significant time investment is required to successfully publish a paper and several skills are used during the process including collaborative writing, figure design, analysis and concise written communication. With over 30,000 journals to choose from and various publishing models to consider, researchers need to be aware of which option will work best for them. Academic publishing is currently evolving and there have been several new developments in recent years, including requirements for open access and new regulations. Participants will be introduced to the editorial process, time frames, how to choose the appropriate journal, legal considerations and how to navigate the academic publishing process. This workshop is designed to cover the key actions and issues behind publishing a research paper including manuscript preparation, choosing the appropriate journal and peer review. In addition it will include an introduction to the controversial subject of metrics. The instructor’s own publishing experience will be used to illustrate key points. At the end of this workshop participants will have: • a clear overview of the publishing process & the timefarme involved; • an understanding of open access and copyright and how this applies to scholarly communications; External Facilitator: Dr Joanna Young

An Introduction To Sketch Engine On: Friday 2 February 2024, 13.00-16.00, M136, de Havilland campus For researchers interested in exploring language use, UH has a subscription to the corpus query system Sketch Engine that allows users to analyse a range of preloaded corpora (i.e. large collections of texts) to identify patterns of language use. This session will provide an introduction to using Sketch Engine and the basics of corpus linguistics, i.e. frequency, collocations, keywords, Word Sketches etc. We will also discuss why using a corpus or corpora to analyse actual instances of language use rather than relying on intuition is particularly fruitful and might yield unexpected results highlighting e.g. restrictions of use, preferred combinations of words or grammatical patterns, change of use through time etc. Using a corpus is also helpful if you are a non-native speaker of English and would like to see how certain words (or combination of words) are used in different contexts. The focus of this workshop is on English, but Sketch Engine includes corpora in other languages and corpus linguistic methods can be applied to any language or even utilized to compare language use across languages by analysing parallel corpora.

“I had such a great time, time flew by!” Facilitator: Dr Cathy Lonngren-Sampaio

Approaching The Literature Review On: Tuesday 17 October 2023, 13:30-16:30, L280, de Havilland LRC This session is aimed at those who are about to begin their literature review. It is intended to help you understand the purpose of the critical literature review and how it differs from simply “reading the literature”. It will complement but not duplicate the practical guidance given by the library staff. Attendees will cover: • What’s the point of the literature review? • How to structure your literature review • How to triage the literature • How to criticise the literature This session complements and ideally precedes the session “Making Sense of the Literature”. It is not essential but you will find it more useful if you have also attended “Translating Your Research Interest into a Research Programme”. Facilitator: Prof Brian Smith

22 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Assertiveness & Resilience On: Tuesday 5 December 2023, 10.00-13.00, L280, de Havilland LRC • To increase levels of self-awareness using Physical Intelligence techniques • Working with Eric Berne’s ‘Transactional Analysis’ as a compass for your approach to Assertiveness • To adapt levels of confidence when approaching challenging communications • Power of the Pause • Questions Funnel • How to approach and structure difficult conversations • Levels of listening • ’SPACES’ resilience acronym based on Dr Carol Pemberton’s research • To have fun, connect • To have the opportunity to practice these tools as a group External Facilitator: Isabel Pollen

Attracting Your Own Research Funding: Writing & Applying For Fellowships On: Wednesday 27 March 2024, 9.30-12.30, online via Zoom A career in research is exciting, varied and gives you the opportunity to be at the cutting edge of discovery in your chosen field, but it is a highly competitive environment and researchers from all over the world aspire to reach the top of the profession. If you are aiming for a career in research it is crucial to publish regularly, be independent and attract your own funding. You can start to do this early in your research career: if you are awarded a postdoctoral fellowship, not only will you stand out from the crowd, but you will demonstrate that you can propose innovative projects that attract research funding - this is a key requirement for a successful academic career. How do you go about the process of applying for your own postdoctoral research fellowship? There is more to it than filling in an application form: you will have to propose and design an innovative project, identify a senior researcher to advise you and approach them about being involved in your project, convince the application reviewers that you are the right person, name referees and more. To be successful requires planning and preparation and you will need to use your network and be proactive. This workshop is suitable for PhD students (from 2nd year onwards) and will include case studies, individual exercises and the instructor’s own experience of successfully obtaining a postdoctoral research fellowship. At the end of this workshop participants will have: • an understanding of what steps are involved, time frames, what a fellowship involves, international options, how to apply, the different types of fellowships available; • planned out a project and application strategy using the unique Electv® funding planning tool. External Facilitator: Dr Joanna Young

Becoming A Member Of Your Discipline On: Thursday 26 October 2023, 9.30-11.30, L280, de Havilland LRC A PhD programme has two outputs: a contribution to knowledge and a new member of the practitioner guild. The aim of this session is to raise your awareness of the particular approach of your discipline, and to introduce the concept of tacit disciplinary knowledge. There will be a brief presentation on the developments in the philosophy of science that connect this concept with the discovery and justification of new knowledge. You should leave with a plan in mind to acquire the tacit disciplinary knowledge that you will need to function as a practitioner-member of your academic guild. Good preparation would be to read: • Kuhn, TS: The Structure of Scientific Revolutions (2nd ed) Other interesting books on the subject are: • Bourdieu, Pierre: Homo Academicus • Polanyi, Michael: Personal Knowledge: Towards a Post-Critical Philosophy

“An interesting session with a clear message.” “Excellent session.” Facilitator: Dr Brendan Larvor

24 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Build A Research Website In 3 Hours On: Friday 1 March 2024, 9.30-12.30, online via Zoom A website of your own is a good way to make your research more visible, whether this is a website for you as an individual researcher or a site to showcase your whole research group. You can use your website to explain your research, list your publications, point out your collaborations, blog, link to social media and note your awards and achievements. The increased visibility that a website brings can be useful when job searching, attracting applications from prospective students and postdocs and finding potential collaborators. A researcher can use their own website to publish a preprint of their research article (depending on the copyright policies of the journal), allowing them to pre-publish their research in one place. This workshop requires no coding skills or programming experience. Participants will be introduced to the principles of web design, usability and a few different platforms for building websites free of charge. The workshop will focus on the free Wordpress platform and participants will be taken through the website building process; by the end they will each have a functional research website that they can update and manage themselves. At the end of this workshop participants will have: • a website of their own that they can update and adapt in their own time; • acquired the skills to build and manage their own websites using the Wordpress platform. External Facilitator: Dr Joanna Young

Building A Second Brain? How To Turn A Notes App Into A Personal Research Assistant On: Tuesday 10 October 2023, 13.00-14.00, L280, de Havilland LRC In this practical workshop, Mark and Phil will outline current ideas around Personal Knowledge Management and Building a Second Brain. They will demonstrate systems for dealing with the huge amounts of information you meet each day and how making effective notes on this information can help save you time, make vital connections in your thinking, and pave the way to less stressful writing practices. Although an analogue option will be presented, the majority of the workshop will focus on digital note-taking tools, with Phil explaining why he thinks that Obsidian is the best available note-taking tool for researchers. If possible, please download and install Obsidian (https://obsidian.md/download) before the workshop and bring your laptop with you. Facilitators: Mark Holloway and Phil Gainley

Communicating Your Research Online: Digital Tools, Strategy and Impact On: Friday 22 March 2024, 13.00-16.00, online via Zoom A range of new tools are emerging that complement traditional publishing and communication methods and researchers can take advantage of these to enhance their online profiles, even before they have published any of their work. You can track your research impact digitally, gain citations for your work, interact with peers and engage with a non-academic audience directly. Digital tools can be used to demonstrate public engagement in grants and department reports. Researchers post opinions, negative results, figures, posters, data, old student projects (and more) and receive acknowledgement from their peers and the public while building their own research profiles. This course will introduce participants to a set of online tools (including Google Scholar, Figshare, ResearchGate, Academia. edu, Impact Story and F1000) that can be used to discuss, share and promote research. In addition, the course will touch on how popular social media platforms can be used to your advantage.

“Excellent presentation and a lovely trainer with lots of experience” External Facilitator: Dr Joanna Young

Creative Story Telling: Selling Your Research To An Audience On: Thursday 19 October 2023, 10.00-11.30, L280, de Havilland LRC The key to success in research is, first of all, being able to ask the right question. Being able to interpret the data, to see new patterns, to make links between the not-soobvious associations are skills that are developed to provide new and creative answers to your research challenges. During this workshop we will develop your ability to ask questions, to think outside the box, to see things differently and generate a wider range of possibilities. We will use a range of techniques including group discussion, group activities and targeted exercises to develop your creative think Facilitator: Dr Derek Ong

26 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Creative Thinking And Problem Solving On: Tuesday 6 February 2024, 9.30-12.30, online via Zoom The key to success in research is, first of all, being able to ask the right question. Being able to interpret the data, to see new patterns, to make links between the not-soobvious associations are skills that are developed to provide new and creative answers to your research challenges. During this workshop we will develop your ability to ask questions, to think outside the box, to see things differently and generate a wider range of possibilities. We will use a range of techniques including group discussion, group activities and targeted exercises to develop your creative thinking and problem solving skills. Do come ready to work on your own research ideas, problems or challenges and be prepared to develop some surprising possibilities. As a result of this half day workshop participants will • Know the first step to solving a problem is to ask the right question • Be able to use a range of techniques for stimulating creative processes • Understand how learning styles and behaviour influence creative activity • Have techniques to generate ideas and select solutions • Access resources for creative thinking, problem solving and decision making

“ I found this session is useful for enhancing the creative thinking to apply not only to research but also daily life. So yes, I finally found that I can learn and improve my creative thinking.” External Facilitator: Dr Margaret Collins

Critical Reading & Research-Oriented Writing On: Thursday 2 November 2023, 13.00-16.00, L280, de Havilland LRC On: Thursday 8 February 2024, 14.00-17.00, L280 de Havilland LRC The main relevance of this session is to social scientists though the session remains open to all disciplines. This session offers some practical strategies for reading critically, not passively – strategies that could also help you with the amount of reading that researchers are expected to undertake. Participants will have: • Greater confidence in how they select – or deselect – what to read. A selection of techniques they can employ to help them read strategically and effectively. • Greater understanding of how to identify links, discrepancies, points of particular interest, gaps and questions that arise from within a single text, or indeed, across and between texts. • Increased appreciation of how the above provides direction and purpose to the body of their writing. Then, as members of the international academic community we will look at practical and straightforward strategies for writing accessibly, with clarity and authority. In particular, we will look at strategies to get you started on: • Planning the writing. • Getting a structure and a direction that feels safe but is flexible. • Writing for reader-friendliness; we’ll be throwing out some myths about ‘research writing’. • The language of critical thinking – what it can look like in writing. A few frameworks to try. • Chapter introductions – what needs to be included (and why); and how to write them. • Chapter conclusions – what functions need to be fulfilled (and why); and how to write them. Facilitator: Prof Theo Gilbert

28 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Critical Thinking On: Thursday 14 December 2023, 10.00-11.30, L280, de Havilland LRC Critical thinking is an intellectual process of evaluating, analysing/synthesizing arguments and information by drawing on experience, knowledge, reflection and creativity. In this session, after a brief introduction highlighting some key issues, there will be a general discussion of the advantages, disadvantages and some of the challenges involved in developing critical thinking. How can we avoid getting trapped into conventional or (taken-for granted) assumptions and ways of thinking? How can we build our own confidence in formulating and justifying our own ideas in research and beyond? This is your opportunity to bring along experiences and questions from your own doctoral research and research groups.

“ Exceeded expectations – the discussion was incredibly valuable and validated what I am doing and how I plan to refine it.” Facilitator: Dr Peter Fraser

Cross Disciplinary Research Methods On: Tuesday 11 June 2024, 10.00-12.00, L280, de Havilland LRC The celebration of difference and plurality is a cornerstone of our university’s work. We are enrichened by multiple perspectives and struggle to decolonise our curriculum and repopulate with a multiplicity of views, insights and perspective. But how might we celebrate plurality and difference in research methods. To what extent have we put our methodologies under the microscope and questioned their origins and history, the assumptions they contain, and what are the implications for the structure and content of our research. A thesis is ‘an intellectual position capable of being maintained by argument’ just one note, not more, and what are the rules, regulations and procedures that shape ‘argument’. But what of the dangers? Over the last decade, we’ve all seen the dangers of subjectivity, fake news, denial of climate change and more. We aren’t the first to worry about such issues. Eco-feminism, the Antifa movement, Actor Network Theory, New Materialism, Flat Ontology (look them up for RDP homework) and more have variously shown how we might work with complex, entangled, plural and contradictory ways of working that are predicated on methods quite distinct from conventional form of enquiry. They variously open up the possibility of managing difference, multiplicity whilst preserving rigour.

This seminar offers a platform to begin to explore some of these issues and how they might impact on our own areas of research. Some of these concerns grew first in the social sciences, arts and humanities, but they might well apply to the sciences too. Facilitator: Dr Steven Adams

CVs, Application Forms and Personal Statements On: Wednesday 13 March 2024, 10.00-12.00, L280, de Havilland LRC This session is aimed at research students and early career researchers. By the end of this session, you will: • Be able to interpret a job description and person specification • Understand what to include in different CV styles and covering letters • Know how to structure application form answers and personal statements • Understand how psychometric testing is now being used at application stage *Attendees are welcome to bring along their CV or application form Facilitators: Mary Baldwin and Ruth Baker

30 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Data Analysis in R On: Tuesday 12 December 2024, 9.30-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus On: Wednesday 24 April 202, 9.30-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus This course is the second in the “R” stream and is aimed at those who want to know how to use R for undertaking data analysis, the day showing you how to use R to carry out commonly used statistical techniques, including tabulation, t tests, analysis of variance and regression. You may bring your own data for analysis or use the example datasets we provide. We will be using RStudio as a front-end for managing the R programming. It is assumed that delegates have attended the “Getting to Know R” course or already know about the basics of programming in R and are familiar with the RStudio interface. It is also assumed that delegates have attended the “Survey Design & Analysis” or “Quantitative Data Analysis” stream of courses or already have a good knowledge of the material in those courses. The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU) will run this session. The Unit undertakes research and commercial work in Statistics across the University and for external businesses and organisations. Details of all SSCU’s courses on the RDP programme can be found at https://tinyurl.com/SSCU-RDP-23-24 Facilitator: The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU)

Data Protection Law On: Tuesday 24 October 2023, 15:00-17:00, L280, de Havilland LRC Over the years, Data Protection Law has gone through great changes to keep up with advances in technology. This RDP session will enable you to examine the development of data protection law as a distinct area of legal practice. You will explore the current data protection legislation in the European Union and the UK, and its reform in the face of continuous technological development including the increasing rise of AI. Facilitator: Dr Felipe Romero Moreno

Developing Precision And Concision Through Microwriting On: Tuesday 11 November 2023, 10.00-11.00, L280, de Havilland LRC Tiny texts, according to Academic Writing expert Pat Thomson, “do a lot of heavy lifting for academic writing”. In this interactive workshop, you will encounter some very short texts – microwriting - in an exploration of what it means to write precisely and concisely for pleasure and for research. You’ll do some writing of your own, so please bring something to write with, and feel free to bring along any questions around precision and concision in writing that you have already completed or are working on. The workshop will run for one hour, but Mark will be available for one-to-one consultation on your writing in the second hour. Facilitator: Mark Holloway

Dissertation On: Tuesday 11 June 2024, 15:00-17:00, L280, de Havilland LRC As a part of your PhD journey, you will be required to write a Dissertation project. Based on library-based research, this RDP session will enable you to examine some of the key elements inherent in a Dissertation project such as, drafting your literature review, setting out your research goals, formulating your research problems, research questions and hypothesis, as well as looking at different Dissertation designs, methods, and contribution to knowledge examples. You will also be provided with some tips when it comes to the supervisor and supervisee relationship, as well as exploring some research tools and techniques. Facilitator: Dr Felipe Romero Moreno

Establishing Good Writing Habits On: Tuesday 30 April 2024, 14.00-16.00, L280, de Havilland LRC Through this workshop, you will explore various ways to develop habits and practices that will help you to achieve your writing goals. The workshop will be interactive - so bring something to write with - and will end with an opportunity to join a writing group to help you stay motivated and on top of your work! The workshop will run for one hour, but Mark will be available for one-to-one consultation on your writing in the second hour. Facilitator: Mark Holloway

32 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Expanding Your Access to Resources for Your Research On: Tuesday 23 January 2024, 10.00-11.00, online via MSTeams On: Wednesday 20 March 2024, 10.00-11.00, online via MSTeams As a postgraduate researcher, you will need to explore widely the information landscape. This one hour session will help you discover the wealth of resources available to you beyond the LRC’s print and electronic collections. The knowledge shared will open pathways to other resources to help broaden your research. To get the most out of this session it is assumed you will know the basics of using Library Search, searching the literature using library databases and obtaining papers via the inter library loan service Facilitator: Rebecca Scott

Figures, Images & Visualising Information On: Tuesday 30 April 2024, 9.30-12.30, online via Zoom Displaying information in a visual format is a excellent way for researchers to communicate their work. You can enhance your research papers, thesis, conference posters, presentations and public engagement activities with accurate and clear visual representations. This workshop is designed to introduce participants to various types of visual formats including standard graphs, information visualisations and graphics for publication. There are a number of different ways to display your data or ideas visually and it depends on who you are aiming to engage and what you want to tell them. Building excellent graphics and summary figures takes time, practice and a willingness to learn the appropriate software. This workshop will provide an overview of information visualisation and further resources for participants to explore in their own time. Data and information visualisation is a vast and rapidly growing field. This workshop covers the principles of visualising information, examples of excellent visualisations and poor visualisations and case studies including examples from the instructor’s own publications and experience. At the end of this workshop participants will have: • been introduced to the principles of good information visualisation; • an overview of various types of visualisations and considered how they can represent their own work visually. *Please note: this is not a workshop on software tools, though a list of tools will be provided for participants to explore in their own time. External Facilitator: Dr Joanna Young

First And Second Progress Assessments On: Wednesday 11 October 2023, 9.30-10.30, L280, de Havilland LRC On: Wednesday 14 February 2024, 10.00-11.00, L280, de Havilland LRC • F ind out about the process of registering for a research degree at the University of Hertfordshire • Explore issues surrounding the programme of research • Understand the requirements of the registration and progression forms • Gain a clear understanding of the timescales and requirements, as well as the rationale behind the understanding of the preparation required • Understand the likely outcomes of the assessment and the implications these may have for your research registration. This session will be devoted to issues relating to the design of a research proposal and will address specifically the University’s procedures for the initial registration and doctoral review assessments. Researchers will have the chance to look through registration and progression forms and to discuss what to include in their programme of research and progression reports. The session will also provide advice on dealing with embargoes and the expected content of the section which deals with training in support of the research programme. This session will also address what the progression assessments involve in practical terms (in particular within the context of University of Hertfordshire regulations) and in terms of the intellectual development of ideas. The session will dispel certain myths about assessment and reinforce the critical elements for success at the assessment stages of your research registration. An opportunity will be provided for researchers to ask any questions they have about the assessment process and the preparation they need to undertake.

“ The workshop gave me a clear understanding on what I should do before the assessment and how this assessment will be held/given.” Facilitator: Kathy Lee

34 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Getting Published And Promoting Your Research On: Thursday 2 November 2023, 9.00-11.00, online via MSTeams This is an open forum style session in which senior researchers from different disciplines will discuss publishing in journals, at conferences and dealing with the media.

“Expectations fully met, thank you!” Facilitators: Professor Elias Brinks and Dr Pat Simpson

Getting Started With Statistics On: Thursday 12 October 2023 10.00-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus On: Wednesday 24 January 2024, 10.00-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus This course is aimed at those who need to learn about the very basics of analysing and presenting statistical data. As it is delivered to researchers from across the University, it aims to deliver at a generic level rather than trying to be specific to each researcher’s individual discipline. The topics covered are descriptive statistics, probability, the Normal distribution and confidence intervals. These topics will be demonstrated using Excel and SPSS. Following this course, you may be interested in taking subsequent courses in the “Survey Design & Analysis” stream (for those doing research involving surveys of people) or the “Quantitative Data Analysis” stream (for those doing research involving experiments, etc.). If you are unsure which stream is relevant to you, this will be discussed during this “Getting Started with Statistics” course. No prior knowledge is required for this course. The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU) will run this session. The Unit undertakes research and commercial work in Statistics across the University and for external businesses and organisations. Details of all SSCU’s courses on the RDP programme can be found at https://tinyurl.com/SSCU-RDP-23-24 Facilitator: The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU)

Getting Started with UH Library Services and Resources On: Tuesday 31 October 2023, 13.00-13.45, online via MSTeams This session is designed to give you an overview to our Library Services and Resources particularly if you are new to UH. The session is facilitated by one of the Information Managers (Subject Librarian) and is a prerequisite to attending the following sessions: • Literature Searching: Using Online Resources • Expanding your Access to Resources for your Research The session will cover: • Basic orientation of Library Services and Resources. • Using the Online Library and ensuring you can access all the full-text content you are entitled to. • Finding subject specific library resources to help you research the literature on your topic. • Using the inter library loan service to supply books and journals we do not have in our library collections. • Where to find information about accessing other libraries or publishing and promoting your research. • How to find help and support from the Library Team and colleagues in Research and Scholarly Communications Team. Facilitator: Monica Rivers-Latham

Getting To Know R On: Thursday 7 December 2023, M142, de Havilland campus On: Wednesday 17 April 2024, M142, de Havilland campus This course is the first in the “R” stream and is aimed at those who want to get to know R, the day covering the basics of R and how it operates. You will learn how to get your data into R, manipulate it to obtain basic summary statistics and tables and get to know how the R environment works. As well as getting to know R, we will show you how RStudio can be used as a front-end for managing your R programming. You will also see how the impressive graphics capabilities of R can be used to produce customised charts. It is assumed that delegates have attended the “Getting Started with Statistics” course or already have a good knowledge of the material in that course. The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU) will run this session. The Unit undertakes research and commercial work in Statistics across the University and for external businesses and organisations. Details of all SSCU’s courses on the RDP programme can be found at https://tinyurl.com/SSCU-RDP-23-24 Facilitator: The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU)

36 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

GitHub On: Wednesday 12 June 2023, 10.00-12.00, room TBC Being one of the most successful Git platforms, GibHub is a web-based version control service, offering full features of source code management such as tracking code history, collaborative/social coding, code storage and access in the cloud etc. This session provides a crash course for GitHub from basic terminologies to common operations. Other related concepts such as Agile will also be briefly covered. The session includes a one hour lecture and a one hour practical session in the lab. The lecture contains two parts, with the first part introducing the fundamental knowledge of GitHub and the second one explaining command line operations for advanced users.

“I learned quite a lot more than I expected.” Facilitators: Sajid Fadlelseed

Grant Writing Workshop For PhD And MSc by Research Students On: Friday 19 April 2024, 9.30-12.30, online via Zoom Writing grants and applying for funding is a key component of an academic career. Learning how to craft a clear, well structured funding proposal is an essential skill for all researchers and it is useful to understand the application process, be aware timelines and explore various funding sources before applying. The funding process is highly competitive and not all applications are successful. How long does it take to write a grant proposal? What is expected? How do you outline your achievements and convince the panel to award the funding to your project? This workshop will provide an overview of the process and an introduction to how to write grant proposals. It will include short presentations from the instructor, group discussions and individual exercises. External Facilitator: Dr Joanna Young

How not to Procrastinate (Or The Secret to Getting Started) On: Tuesday 31 October 2023, 9.30-12.30, online via Zoom Do you feel paralysed, not starting tasks that you know you want and need to do? Do you leave things to the last minute and stay up all night to get them done just in time? This is not a time management workshop – dealing with procrastination, the habit of putting things off until the last minute, requires more than good time management. I know you mean well but suspect that you’re also struggling. You probably know what your priorities are, you already have a range of time management tools, yet somehow, things don’t get done. Procrastination often seems to defy logic and fly in the face of what we know we need and often deeply want to do – to start and then to complete – tasks that we know are needed for our professional career development. This frustrating habit can seem so counter-productive as it makes even seemingly simple tasks feel unpleasant as we struggle to understand our own resistance in the face of an overwhelming need to get stuff done. This workshop will allow participants the space to examine and to question their procrastination, to understand why we do it and most importantly to explore ways to stop putting things off and start getting things done. During this half day workshop we will explore: • What procrastination is – or is not • The consequences of procrastination for ourselves, our friends/colleagues, careers • Reasons why we procrastinate • Strategies to fight back – and win! External Facilitator: Dr Margaret Collins

38 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

How To Be An Effective Researcher On: Wednesday 7 February 2024, 9.30-17.00, L280, de Havilland LRC This workshop is aimed at research students who are three to twelve months into their doctoral studies (PhD or Professional Doctorate). The programme aims to enhance the effectiveness of postgraduate researchers by building their understanding, skills and confidence in: • Communication • Planning and time management • Problem solving • Leadership • Assertiveness. It also helps individuals to understand their own learning and working styles, through the following core areas: • PhD project planning and time management • Working effectively with others (including supervisors) • Collaboration • Culture within research groups, institutions and countries • Self-awareness and preferences for learning and working. Please note this session is for first year Research Students only. External Facilitator: Paul Toombs

How To Be More Confident On: Wednesday 24 January 2024, 9.30-12.30, online via Zoom It’s in the very nature of PhD research to dwell at the edge of not-knowing and incompetence. This is great for pushing back the boundaries of knowledge, but not so easy on the ego; particularly if our self-esteem has got tangled up with our results or knowing what we are doing. Similarly, there are a whole number of other challenges to our confidence, from getting feedback on work, to presenting, to dealing with challenge and tricky people. By practicing the methods learned on this workshop, you will be able to rediscover those moments of natural confidence, so you can approach challenge with a reasonable and compassionate perspective. By the end of this workshop, you will have: • Practised with tools for working through nervousness • Tools to understand and work with perspective • Actions and experiments to take that can develop confidence through time • Worked with colleagues and peers and developed a sense of common ground

“Expectations fully met – the best course I have attended.” “I have found useful tools, thoughts and behaviours I can really work with.” External Facilitator: Dr Jamie McDonald

How To Cope With Stress On: Friday 2 February 2024, 10.00-11.00, online via Zoom Stress is not something which just happens to us. Stressful events may be beyond our control but the response we choose is not and using the right tools and techniques can go a long way towards limiting our experience of stress and helping us stay calm and positive in challenging situations. Key topics covered: • About Stress: definitions, ways to think about stress, physiology and common symptoms. • Physical and emotional symptoms of stress: learn to recognise how you are affected. • Consequences of stress: short and long term impacts. • Staying well: tools and techniques to limit stress and feel better. How to cope with Stress offers insights into the common triggers and symptoms of stress and provides guidance on cognitive and behavioural techniques which you can learn and use yourself to tackle these symptoms. External Facilitator: NHS Hertfordshire Talking Therapies Team, Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust

40 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

How To Succeed At Interviews And Assessment Centres On: Thursday 14 March 2024, 10.00-12.00, L280, de Havilland LRC This session is aimed at research students and early career researchers. In this session, you will: • Understand what employers are looking for • Know how to prepare and make a good impression • Understand how to deal with nerves and difficult questions • Develop confidence in structuring your answers • Understand what recruitment selection events involve • Understand the role of video interviews in the selection process Facilitators: Mary Baldwin and Ruth Baker

How To Write A Scientific Paper (And Get It Published) On: Thursday 2 May 2024, 14.00-16.00, online via MSTeams This on-line session aims to provide the research community, particularly PhD students and post-docs, with some tips and guidance on the preparation of scientific papers. The speaker, Brendan Whittle, Professor Emeritus of Applied Pharmacology at the William Harvey Research Institute at Barts and the London School of Medicine has been actively involved with many aspects of the publication process. During his ongoing scientific career, he has had some 400 publications accepted as book chapters and as papers in a range of scientific journals and is an ISI Highly Cited Researcher. He has also been a member of the Editorial Boards of a number of high-ranking journals including the British Journal of Pharmacology and its European counterpart. Having been an external referee for journals of well-over 200 submitted papers, he is fully aware of the pitfalls and difficulties that many authors find themselves in, during the preparation and eventual submission to a journal. In his work-shop style presentation, he will help identify many of the problems that authors have in working on a new paper, providing some steps that can be taken to avoid the paper being rejected after peer-review, once submitted. Facilitator: Professor Brendan Whittle

How To Write And Publish A Paper On: Tuesday 5 December 2023, 14.00-16.00, L280, de Havilland LRC The session is aimed at postgraduate research students, postdoctoral fellows and ECRs. The session will include: • Why write and publish a research paper? • What type of research paper can I publish? • The Research – are you ready to publish? • Where to publish? • Your writing / editing process • Submission process • Peer-Review process (the ‘known unknown’)- my experience • Revisions and ‘getting published’ • Promoting your research beyond the research journal Facilitator: Dr Lisa Lione

How To Write Your Thesis On: Thursday 1 February 2024, 13.30-16.30, L280, de Havilland LRC The goal of this session is to take you from “I’m sitting here with all my findings and ideas” to “This is how I’m going to write it all up” and it is aimed at people who have or are close to finishing the analysis of their research. It will therefore concentrate on how to structure your thesis in a way that is most likely to satisfy your examining panel. It won’t cover issues about how to write in an academic style since this is covered in another session. The main topics covered will be: • What’s the point: Being clear about why we bother with writing up our research • Laying it down: Understanding the structure of doctoral dissertations • Making it your own: Envisaging what your dissertation may look like and avoiding the “wood for the trees” trap • Dodging the bullets: Anticipating what your examiners will be looking for and how to satisfy them Facilitator: Professor Brian D Smith

42 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Imposter Syndrome Essentials On: Tuesday 13 February 2024, 13.30-16.30, online via Zoom Are you as good as they think you are? This secret fear that we’re not really good enough is surprisingly widespread. In the face of tangible evidence of their success, many women, some men, people who are genuine high-achievers are often wracked by self-doubt and the fear of being found out. This feeling has been termed “Imposter Syndrome”. You might recognise this when you realise you’re thinking or feeling: • that you don’t put yourself forward because you fear you’ll fail • you don’t contribute in meetings because you don’t want to look a fool • you’ve done pretty well so far but you feel you’ve been really lucky • other people doing similar jobs seem to be more “grown up” than you feel • your definition of “good enough” for yourself is really “achieving perfection without breaking sweat”! If not addressed Imposter Syndrome feelings can cause individuals to experience significant stress, anxiety and fear. It can drive them to burn out or inhibit them from achieving their full potential, prevent them from making valuable contributions to projects or meetings and deprive an organisation from seeing the very best that their staff can give. But the secret is now out. The Imposter Syndrome can be sorted!! During this workshop “Imposters” will: • come to understand how this is affecting their life • examine the role that gender, race and class can have on feelings of fraudulence • understand how men and women put different values on the art of “winging it” • see how their interpretation of success has been making things more difficult • learn practical strategies to set free their Imposter and be themselves! External Facilitator: Dr Margaret Collins

Inferential Statistics On: Thursday 18 January 2024, 10.00-12.00, L280, de Havilland LRC This online session course may be relevant to all research students who need to run inferential statistical tests for their quantitative research studies. The session will cover inferential statistical analysis for different study designs. The session will be supported by examples of health care research studies but participants of other disciplines will also benefit from it. • The first part will cover the fundamentals of inferential statistics: p-value and null hypothesis testing. • The second part will present the different types statistical inferential tests. • The last part will demonstrate how to use the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software to run inferential tests. Facilitator: Dr Anthony Herbland

Intellectual Property Law On: Tuesday 24 October 2023, 12:00-14:00, L280, de Havilland LRC Over the years, Intellectual Property (IP) Law has gone through great changes to keep up with advances in technology and media. Current developments in AI technology raise new issues concerning the scope and purpose of IP rights. IP rights are relevant to AI in multiple ways. By striking the right balance between, on the one hand, the interests of innovators and, on the other hand, the wider public interest, this RDP session will enable you to examine an environment where innovation and creativity can flourish. Facilitator: Dr Felipe Romero Moreno

Internal Examiner Training On: Tuesday 14 November 2023, 12.00-13.00, Sandringham room, MacLaurin building On: Tuesday 19 March 2024, 12.00-13.00, Sandringham room, MacLaurin building On: Tuesday 28 May 2024, 12.00-13.00, Sandringham room, MacLaurin building The Doctoral College runs training events for staff who are new to final research degree examinations (as opposed to progress assessments). This event runs through the process and the responsibilities of internal examiners at UH. Suitable for Current or Potential Internal Research Degree Examiners only Facilitators: Dr Susan Grey and Nikki Hogg

44 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Interviewing In Qualitative Research On: Thursday 14 March 2024, 13.00-15.00, L280, de Havilland LRC As the most common method of data collection in qualitative research, interviews are conducted face-to-face, online or by phone. This interactive session will introduce a variety of qualitative research interviews and guidance on creating the interview guide and constructing interview questions, and will recommend some practical tips for carrying out interviews by drawing on theory and experiences of the facilitators and their research students. Facilitator: Dr Angela Dickinson

Introduction To Excel On: Thursday 19 October 2023, 13.00-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus This workshop is the first in the “Excel” stream and is aimed at those who want to learn how to use Excel for a range of general office tasks. It includes the following topics. • Excel basics • Using a spreadsheet to enter, edit and organise numerical and other data • Using formulae and functions • Absolute and relative references • Simple graphs • Productivity hints & tips No prior knowledge is required for this course. The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU) will run this session. The Unit undertakes research and commercial work in Statistics across the University and for external businesses and organisations. Details of all SSCU’s courses on the RDP programme can be found at https://tinyurl.com/SSCU-RDP-23-24. Facilitator: The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU)

Introduction To NVivo On: Tuesday 5 March 2024, 14.00-16.45, M142, de Havilland campus NVivo data management software is a beneficial tool for evaluating, interpreting and explaining social phenomena by analysing unstructured or semi-structured data such as interviews, focus groups, qualitative surveys, field notes, or even documents and journal articles. Qualitative data can be difficult to manage with many believing complicated software doesn’t make it any easier, but a software like NVivo can save you time and make your data management procedures more efficient. This session will introduce researchers, who have not used this software before, to the fundamentals of how to: • Set Up Your Project • Create and Import Data Sources • Manage Data • Code, and Work with Coded Data Learning how to master NVivo takes time, but is made easier if you are familiar with the data to be coded. As such, although we will be working with sample data during this session, participants are invited to bring along a word document or pdf of one or more of their own interview transcripts to code. Pre-requisites: Candidates should have some understanding of qualitative analysis.

“I feel confident to use NVivo now.” “Expectations fully met, I really enjoyed it.” Facilitator: Dr Joanne McDowell

46 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Introduction To Research Impact On: Wednesday 4 October 2023, 10.00-12.00, L280, de Havilland LRC On: Thursday 25 January 2024, 10.00-12.00, L280, de Havilland LRC Impact is an increasingly important topic for researchers. Most research funders now require applicants to describe the potential impact of their work, and research impact is a critical aspect of research assessment. This session aims to give participants a broad introduction to research impact: What is ‘impact’? How can you communicate your work to a non-specialist audience? What difference can your research make to the ‘real world’? This session is aimed at PhD students and Early Career Researchers.

“ Better awareness and understand opportunity to think about my position. Helpful to discuss with other researchers.” Facilitators: Charlotte Holloway and Bridget Russell

Introduction To Statistics On: Thursday 5 October 2023, 14.00-16.00, N212, de Havilland campus This session is relevant to all research students who need to understand, use or carry out quantitative research studies. The underlying concepts of basic statistical analysis are covered. The session will be supported by examples of health care research studies but participants of other disciplines will also benefit from it. The first part will cover the fundamentals of statistics: definition and scope of statistics, data types and descriptive statistics. The second part will introduce the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software as a software package for quantitative data analysis. Facilitator: Dr Anthony Herbland

Introduction to Systematic Reviews On: Wednesday 27 March 2024, 09.30-12.00, online via MSTeams Systematic reviews are commonly used across different disciplines to synthesise relevant literature on specific research topic. This introductory workshop will explore the different stages of the systematic review: searching, screening, data extraction, critical appraisal, synthesis, and analysis. Participants will: • explore different types of literature review and their requirements • understand the stages of a systematic review • consider different methodological approaches for systematic reviews During the workshop, participants will undertake two group activities in break out rooms. No prior knowledge of systematic reviews is required. However, it will be helpful for participants to have some experience in literature searching. Useful resources to explore after the session will be shared. Facilitator: Rebecca Scott

Literature Review On: Tuesday 9 January 2024, 13.00-15.00, online via MSTeams On: Wednesday 5 June 2024, 13.00-15.00, online via MSTeams This session will introduce students to the importance, purpose, content and sources of the literature review as part of research. The session will include information on strategies for carrying out the literature review – how and when it can take place, the structure and positioning of the literature review chapter – and the skills involved in the whole process, plus a look at how, having undertaken some literature review, you might find yourself more confused than before you began.

“Good tips to take away for help with my literature review.” Facilitator: Dr Pat Simpson

48 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Literature Searching: Using Online Resources On: Wednesday 6 December 2023, 10.00-12.00, online via MSTeams On: Wednesday 31 January 2024, 13.00-15.00, online via MSTeams This session aims to demonstrate how to search online databases in a more structured and sophisticated way in order to improve search results. Discover some of the features available in these literature databases which allow you to search systematically, refine your search strategy or do citation searching, among other things. The session includes time for ‘hands-on’ to practice these transferrable skills and apply them to your own research topic.

“It was great, particularly the practical search demonstration was helpful.” “ Learnt quite a few good techniques to use in my research, very useful – thank you.” Facilitator: Monica Rivers-Latham

Making Sense Of The Literature Review On: Thursday 6 June 2024, 9.30-12.30, L280, de Havilland LRC This session is aimed at those who are well advanced in their literature review and want to begin to draw conclusions from it. It is intended to help you think through what you have gained from the literature review and to begin structuring the write up of your literature review. Attendees will cover: • How to assess whether the literature review is complete • How to step back and see the wood for the trees • How to identify research gaps • How to structure the writing of your literature review This session will only be useful to those who have already completed, or are well advanced in, their literature review. Those who are not might consider “Approaching the Literature Review” Facilitator: Professor Brian D Smith

Managing Pressure Positively On: Wednesday 14 February 2024, 13.30-16.30, online via Zoom Stress, a part of everyday life, something to be lived with, inescapable??? In many cases, we are juggling multiple roles which make many demands on our time and resources. Stress has power over us because we don’t realize that we have choices and could be doing things differently. This course will allow the participants to understand the nature and sources of their stress. They will gain the skills to deal with their stress symptoms and with stressful situations, they will learn how to relax and to choose a healthier and happier future. We will include discussions around perspective-taking, reframing and resilience, ways to make better choices for more helpful outcomes. The skills gained can be equally applied to stress at home or at work, from dealing with tasks or to managing people and situations. During the half day workshop participants can expect to: • understand the biological basis of stress and it’s symptoms • see the reasons why stress is personal and identify your particular stressors • become aware of how you deal with stressful situations • have choices to deal with stress in a healthier or more helpful way • learn techniques that can help to deal with the symptoms of stress • have tools to manage themselves and their environment more effectively

“ I think this session fully covers material in an easy, concise and enjoyable way.” External Facilitator: Dr Margaret Collins

Managing Your Reading And References With Zotero On: Tuesday 3 October 2023, 13.00-14.00, L280, de Havilland LRC In this practical workshop, Mark and Phil will provide an introduction to Zotero - a free piece of software that allows you to manage your reading and note-taking in a way that will help you to save your time, think critically and make connections between texts, and automate referencing as you write. Please download and install Zotero before the session (https://www.zotero.org/download/), and bring your laptop along with you. Phil can provide technical assistant as well as incredible Zotero insights according to your needs. Facilitators: Mark Holloway and Phil Gainley

50 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Maximise Your Memory On: Thursday 23 November 2023, 9.30-16.30, L280, de Havilland LRC On: Thursday 4 April 2024, 9.30-16.30, L280, de Havilland LRC • Do you want to improve your memory? • Do you feel that your memory is less reliable than in the past? • Do you need to remember what you read, what people tell you, or cure absent mindedness? The objectives of this workshop are to: • Understand better the nature of memory • Learn techniques to improve memory • Acquire the confidence to apply the techniques to everyday and professional lives. External Facilitator: Dr Kathryn Redway

Mendeley Reference Manager: A Hands On Approach On: Thursday 13 June 2024, 09.30-11.30, L280, de Havilland LRC Gone are the days when writing seemed to be a breeze where we could spew facts after facts without any concern of being accused of plagiarism. It seems these days anything that we write needs to be properly cited, especially in the thesis writing and academic publishing world. We would then scrounge around to manually input references which can be a pain due to long hours and precision of format. Hence, using a reference manager like Mendeley can help save us from that pain and help make articles ready for any reference format in a click of a button. Mendeley Reference Manager is a free web and desktop reference management application that helps you simplify your reference management workflow so you can focus on achieving your goals. In this workshop we will explore: • Storing, organizing and searching all your references from just one library • Seamlessly insert references and bibliographies into your Microsoft® Word documents using Mendeley Cite • Read, highlight and annotate PDFs, and keep all your thoughts across multiple documents in one place Please bring your own laptop (with access to the latest version of MS Word) and you will be provided with the links to download the software. You can also bring a paper/topic that you have already been working on for some hands on guidance. Facilitator: Dr Derek Ong

Narrative Cvs: The What, The Why And The How On: Tuesday 21 November 2023, 11.00-12.00, online via MSTeams On: Tuesday 12 March 2024, 11.00-12.00, online via MSTeams In this session we will explore the reasons for the shift in many organisations (including funders of research) to the use of narrative CVs rather than traditional CVs and will look at the differences between the two. The session will also include hints and tips on how to craft a narrative CV. Facilitator: Liz Nolan

NHS Research Ethics On: Thursday 30 November 2023, 10.45-13.45, L280, de Havilland LRC This session is relevant to staff and students who are required to obtain NHS approval for their proposed study, and make a new application to their relevant NHS hospital on an IRAS form. The session will provide practical advice and guidance on the process and completion of an IRAS form. Please note it is recommended that you also attend the Research Ethics session prior to this.

“Just what I needed and wanted!” Facilitator: Dr Melanie Handley

52 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Open Access: How It Can Help You On: Thursday 26 October 2023, 13.30-15.00, L280, de Havilland LRC Pioneering researchers saw the technical possibilities afforded by the internet as a way to liberate their research by removing barriers between authors and readers. The principle that research should be freely accessible online came to be known as “Open Access” and academic publishing has been evolving ever since. This session will provide attendees with the requisite knowledge to navigate a complex academic publishing landscape, utilising open access possibilities to improve the performance of their outputs. The session includes: • What is open access? • Benefits of open access • How to publish open access • Open access tools • Funder requirements

“Expectations met 110% – really informative and straight to the point.” Facilitator: Evangelia (Evie) Kotsiliti

Open Research: Purpose, Benefits, And What It Means For You On: Tuesday 30 January 2024, 14.00-16.00, L280, de Havilland LRC Open Research, also widely referred to as Open Science, refers to how research is performed and how knowledge is shared based on the principle that research should be as open as possible. It involves the sharing of outputs throughout the research lifecycle, including publications, data, code, protocols, methods, reviews, and any other output from which others could benefit. Making research as open and accessible as possible means greater transparency and reproducibility, greater impact, and enhanced opportunities for collaboration to help solve some of the world’s greatest challenges. The session will cover: • The spectrum of Open Research practices • Problems that Open Research can tackle • Benefits for researchers and society at large • Platforms and tools to open your research • Participants will have opportunities for discussion around relevant principles and practices of Open Research in the light of their own research. Facilitator: Evangelia (Evie) Kotsiliti

Overcoming Challenges: Research, Resilience And You On: Wednesday 24 January 2024, 13.30-16.30, online via Zoom What are your challenges in research? Bring that information with you, because this workshop introduces models, practices and tools that contribute to individual resilience and has you apply them to exactly those situations. Whether it is supervision, publication, writing, experimentation or any other facet of research, we’ll give you key tools for developing adaptability and problem solving, as well as motivating yourself to engage and building your sense of confidence and connection with other researchers. You’ll apply them to your situations as you go, so everything is immediately applicable. A hands-on interactive and practical session. By the end of this workshop, you will have: • Developed your personal view of resilience and how to manage it • Explored your responses and motivation in challenging situations • Practised with a set of tools that develop a creative and flexible attitude • Devised some steps and actions to take to implement what you learn

“ An interesting and good course, informative and helpful to create the correct ‘mindset’ and to achieve your goals.” External Facilitator: Dr Jamie McDonald

54 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Poster Presentation On: Thursday 12 October 2023, 14.00-16.00, L280, de Havilland LRC Poster presentation is an increasingly popular medium for presenting your research. Posters offer a snapshot of your research through which you engage in discussion with others. This session offers useful and practical advice on preparing and presenting posters, highlighting the use of critical analysis and tips on presentation of your research ideas, methodology and/or findings.

“ My expectations were exceeded because I received more guidelines and information than I was expecting.” “Lots of good advice in this session.” Facilitator: Dr Shori Thakur

Project Management For Researchers (PGR And Postdoc) On: Thursday 20 June 2024, 16.30-18.30, online via Zoom Effective project management is essential for researchers throughout their career. A PhD can be a fascinating and unique experience, but it can also be challenging, frustrating and time consuming. Planning and managing the PhD effectively can make the process less stressful and ensure that students finish within their allotted timeframe. Managing your own expectations and those of your supervisor can be challenging and it is important to frequently review your progress and discuss it. All PhD students must design and manage their own project, stick to a research plan, manage their time, present their work regularly and ensure that they are making sufficient progress. This workshop will cover key stages in the PhD process and introduce participants to various project management techniques that they can use in their project. It will include sections on initiating your project, breaking your research down into sections, strategic planning, analysing your progress, optimising your time, risk management and communicating effectively with your supervisor(s). At the end of this workshop participants will have: • been introduced to the main project management stages and what each of these entail; • used a variety of project management techniques to plan, assess and optimise their project; • discussed the challenges & risks associated with their project & considered ways to mitigate these risks. External Facilitator: Dr Joanna Young

Public Speaking For PGRs And Academics On: Wednesday 28 February 2024, 10.30-17.00, L280, de Havilland LRC Working with a skilled actor and communications professional, this workshop will take participants through the process of how to write and deliver a speech. In the first session, you will cover how to structure a speech, the use of appropriate language and imagery, audio-visual aids and how to master the Q&A. In the second session, we will focus on your performance. Drawing on acting techniques, participants will discover how to improve their diction, resonance, range and articulation as well as relaxation and breathing techniques to calm nerves. The day will end with a short presentation where all participants will speak about their research, will be asked questions and will receive individual feedback on their performance. This workshop is designed for all disciplines and those at the beginning stages of their PhD to early career academics. Participants are advised to wear trousers and comfortable shoes.

“Expectations met in an innovative useful way.” “ The workshop is very organised – I learnt new techniques and will use all of them.” External Facilitator: Stewart O’Reilly

Qualitative Data Analysis: Methods and Techniques On: Wednesday 13 March 2024, 1300-16.00, L280, de Havilland LRC This interactive workshop takes a practical look at manually organising and analysing qualitative data. We draw upon examples to consider the practical implications and approaches to thematic analysis. Participants are also given an opportunity to share and discuss their own data analysis issues and techniques.

“Easy to follow, relevant, enjoyable.” “ My expectations were exceeded, really well explained, excellent content and really well structured – it was perfect.” External Facilitator: Dr Rashid Ali

56 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Qualitative Methods On: Wednesday 29 November 2023, 9.30-12.30, L280, de Havilland LRC This session will address the key features of the basis for an application of qualitative approaches in research. The session will include: • Methodologies e.g. interpretivist tradition; constructivism; transformative approaches; narrative; grounded theory; ethnography. • Qualitative research designs • Methods e.g. participant observation; interviews; focus groups; surveys; case studies; types of interview design; etc. • The importance of reflexivity and the means to develop/demonstrate this. • Data analysis and interpretation e.g. thematic/content analysis/ data saturation. • Key ethical considerations in qualitative research e.g. issues of ‘informed consent’; what is the place of ‘doing no harm’, and especially with vulnerable, disadvantaged and marginalised groups? • Research with particular groups e.g. children; people with mental health problems.

“ Thank you for an excellent session which has given me more confidence to proceed.” Facilitator: Professor Brian Littlechild

Quantitative Analysis Of Survey Data On: Thursday 26 October 2023, 13.00-16.00, M142, de Havilland campus The session will show how survey data can be analysed and the results displayed in interesting and informative ways. Examples will use SPSS and Excel (with minimal or no prior knowledge of these packages assumed). There will also be a focus on combining data from several different survey questions. The session will take place in a computer room with live exercises. Participants will be asked to summarise their research question and the form of their actual or intended data one week before the session. During the session they will have the opportunity to analyse their own data using methods presented in the session.

“I was doing it all wrong and now I will do it right, thanks.” Facilitator: Professor Diana Kornbrot

Quantitative Data Analysis 1: Hypothesis Testing, Sample Size & Power On: Wednesday 22 November 2023, 10.00-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus On: Thursday 29 February 2024, 10.00-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus This course is the first in the “Quantitative Data Analysis” stream and is aimed at those who need to learn about analysing data collected from experiments and similar studies using hypothesis testing, and the relationship between sample size and the power of statistical tests. If you are not sure whether this stream is appropriate for your research, you are encouraged to attend the “Getting Started with Statistics” course first. The methods covered include one-sample hypothesis tests, two-sample hypothesis tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and non-parametric analyses. These topics will be demonstrated using Excel and SPSS. The course will also explore sample size issues including the relationship between power and effect size, making use of the G*Power software. It is assumed that delegates have attended the “Getting Started with Statistics” course or already have a good knowledge of the material in that course. The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU) will run this session. The Unit undertakes research and commercial work in Statistics across the University and for external businesses and organisations. Details of all SSCU’s courses on the RDP programme can be found at https://tinyurl.com/SSCU-RDP-23-24. Facilitator: The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU)

58 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Quantitative Data Analysis 2: Correlation & Regression Methods On: Thursday 30 November 2023, 10.00-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus On: Thursday 7 March 2024, 10.00-17.00, M136, de Havilland campus This course is the second in the “Quantitative Data Analysis” stream and is aimed at those who need to learn about building models to analysing data collected from experiments and similar studies. If you are not sure whether this stream is appropriate for your research, you are encouraged to attend the “Getting Started with Statistics” course first. The topics covered include correlation, simple linear regression and multiple regression. These topics will be demonstrated using Excel and SPSS. It is assumed that delegates have attended the “Getting Started with Statistics” and “Quantitative Data Analysis 1: Hypothesis Testing, Sample Size & Power” courses or already have a good knowledge of the material in those courses. The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU) will run this session. The Unit undertakes research and commercial work in Statistics across the University and for external businesses and organisations. Details of all SSCU’s courses on the RDP programme can be found at https://tinyurl.com/SSCU-RDP-23-24. Facilitator: The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU)

Raising The Visibility Of Your Research On: Thursday 28 March 2024, 14.00-15.30, L280, de Havilland LRC The aim of this session is to introduce researchers to the ways in which they can get their research outputs as widely read as possible, providing wider dissemination of their research with greater visibility and recognition. This session will cover: • Issues surrounding ‘Open Access’ to published research • Copyright and publishers’ policies • The University of Hertfordshire Research Information System and Research Archive • Making your publications easier to find on Google and other major search engines • Citation rates, download counts, statistics on usage

“I have a better idea on increasing the visibility of research.” Facilitator: Evangelia (Evie) Kotsiliti

Rapid Reading On: Wednesday 22 November 2023, 9.30-16.30, L280, de Havilland LRC On: Wednesday 3 April 2024, 9.30-16.30, L280, de Havilland LRC This workshop is aimed at anyone who wishes to minimise their reading time to make more available for other purposes. Reading speed after the workshop is typically increased by two to five times. The day is divided into two parts. In the morning, participants learn to read faster (you will need to bring a previously unread novel for this) through a series of exercises – these include the techniques of skimming and scanning. In the afternoon, participants use their own work or study-related material and they apply a technique to increase their comprehension and retention. The course also covers reading on the screen and processing piles of information more efficiently. You will need to bring a previously unread novel to this session.

“An interesting, intense but fun session which produced great results.” External Facilitator: Kathryn Redway

Reflexivity On: Thursday 25 January 2024, 14.00-15.30, L280, de Havilland campus This session will discuss the use of reflective/reflexive methods in social sciences research and is appropriate for a wide range of researchers whatever their discipline. It will draw on insights from the complexity sciences offer to an alternative understanding of how we come to know ourselves in the world. This session will explore: • Ways of thinking about research and change • How researchers might identify how their ways of thinking and acting reflect numerous taken-for granted assumptions which have been accumulated in their life histories and in the histories of their communities • The role of inquiry and conversation in the ordinary, everyday practice

“ Expectations exceeded – this was a great session for recapping on philosophy and thinking about it in the context of my PhD.” Facilitator: Professor Chris Mowles

60 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Research Data Management On: Thursday 21 March 2024, 10.00-12.00, M136, de Havilland campus Good research data management is an integral part of research. This session will give you an overview of data management planning, and will encourage good practice and forethought when it comes to choosing file names and types, software, storing and sharing methods during the project and after publication. It will also highlight funders’ requirements and researchers’ obligation to make your data openly accessible for reuse. • By the end of this session you will: • Have an awareness of the requirements of the Research Councils • Have an awareness of research data management planning • Be able to find relevant guides and necessary support to manage your data effectively Facilitator: Mohamed Hansraj

Research Degrees Supervisor Training For more information, please contact the Doctoral College Research Degrees Team research-degrees@herts.ac.uk The Doctoral College runs training events for research degree supervisors who are inexperienced or new to UH to give supervisors expert guidance on UH procedures and practices. Suitable for Current or Potential Research Degree Supervisors Only. Facilitators: Dr Susan Grey and Kathy Lee

Research Ethics On: Thursday 30 November 2023, 9.00-10.30, L280, de Havilland LRC This session will enable researchers to: • Understand the University requirements for ethical approval of research studies using human participants • Be more confident in planning, conducting and reporting on research that has ethical issues within it • Have the opportunity to discuss challenging ethical issues and explore how research projects can be adapted to account for these and meet University regulations. This session will discuss issues surrounding ethical considerations in research and, in particular, the University’s Regulations regarding the use of human participants. Also, in recognition of recent changes to University practice concerning confidentiality, anonymity and embargoes, the session will explore different methods for protecting the identity of participants and commercially sensitive work. Whilst this session is a useful precursor for NHS approval, those participants requiring NHS ethics approval MUST also attend the NHS Research Ethics session.

“ Expectations exceeded – it’s good NHS ethics approval follows this session which is a very good structure for students.” Facilitator: Dr Avice Hall

Seven Habits of Highly Effective Researchers On: Thursday 6 June 2024, 13.30-16.30, L280, de Havilland LRC This session is primarily aimed at those early in their doctorate but it will have relevance for anyone at any stage of their research. Modelled on the best-selling book “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” this session aims to accelerate your growth into a highly effective researcher. Attendees will cover: • The personal challenge of becoming an effective researcher • Inner victories: Managing yourself so you can manage your research • Outer victories: Managing others to manage your research • Practical, achievable steps towards being an effective researcher This session requires no previous knowledge and does not require attendance at any other session. Facilitator: Professor Brian D Smith

62 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Social Media Bootcamp: Strategy, Digital Profiles & Connecting On: Friday 1 March 2024, 13.30-16.30, online via Zoom This workshop is designed specifically for researchers who are looking to develop their online presence and boost their career prospects through social media. There are now numerous channels available that can be used to amplify your research, promote an enterprising project and attract future employers. In addition, social networks can act as a valuable source of information and a personally tailored news feed. We will explore different types of content that researchers can experiment with. What engages people? What should you post and what should you avoid? How should you manage your time on social media and optimise your engagement? In addition to designing an individual social media strategy, the workshop will include a section on legal considerations, privacy and openess. The workshop is designed to cover a selection of mainstream social media tools that can be used to build your online profile. Short group exercises, case studies and the instructor’s personal experience will be included to illustrate key points. The full day version of this workshop includes a tutorial on how to use specfic platforms and participants require a laptop with wireless access. At the end of this workshop participants will have: • discussed the various ways to use social media to their advantage with other participants in the workshop; • an awareness of the legal considerations and privacy issues; • started to design a social media strategy that they can implement in their own time.

“ Expectations exceeded – it’s good NHS ethics approval follows this session which is a very good structure for students. External Facilitator: Dr Joanna Young

Survey Design & Analysis 1: Collecting, Summarising & Analysing Survey Data On: Wednesday 8 November 2023, 10.00-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus On: Thursday 8 February 2024, 10.00-17.00, M142 de Havilland campus This course is the first in the “Survey Design & Analysis” stream and is aimed at those who need to learn about collecting data using a survey and analysing tabulations of the data collected. If you are not sure whether this stream is appropriate for your research, you are encouraged to attend the “Getting Started with Statistics” course first. This course will look at good practice in survey and questionnaire design. It will examine aspects of surveys such as how researchers can design them so as to make them attractive to their target respondents, how researchers can ask specific “awkward” questions in a way that will encourage responses and how researchers can structure questions to achieve clarity and avoid multiple purposes in a single question. It will also look at different approaches and considerations for sample selection, in order choose the best method of distributing your survey and how to get the right people to answer it. It will also methods for summarising and analysing categorical and ordinal data, including Chisquared and nonparametric methods. These topics will be demonstrated using Excel and SPSS. It is assumed that delegates have attended the “Getting Started with Statistics” course or already have a good knowledge of the material in that course. The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU) will run this session. The Unit undertakes research and commercial work in Statistics across the University and for external businesses and organisations. Details of all SSCU’s courses on the RDP programme can be found at https://tinyurl.com/SSCU-RDP-23-24. Facilitator: The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU)

64 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Survey Design & Analysis 2: Data Analysis, Sample Size & Power On: Thursday 16 November 2023, 10.00-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus On: Thursday 15 February 2024, 10.00-17.00, M142, de Havilland campus This course is the second in the “Survey Design & Analysis” stream and is aimed at those who need to learn about analysing survey-type data using hypothesis tests, and the relationship between sample size and the power of statistical tests. If you are not sure whether this stream is appropriate for your research, you are encouraged to attend the “Getting Started with Statistics” course first. The methods covered include hypothesis testing, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), regression and other methods for survey-type data. These topics will be demonstrated using Excel and SPSS. The course will also explore sample size issues including the relationship between power and effect size, making use of the G*Power software. It is assumed that delegates have attended the “Getting Started with Statistics” and “Survey Design & Analysis 1: Collecting, Summarising & Analysing Survey Data” courses or already have a good knowledge of the material in those courses. The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU) will run this session. The Unit undertakes research and commercial work in Statistics across the University and for external businesses and organisations. Details of all SSCU’s courses on the RDP programme can be found at https://tinyurl.com/SSCU-RDP-23-24. Facilitator: The University’s Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU)

Systematic Literature Reviews On: Wednesday 1 November 2023, 13.00-16.00, L280, de Havilland LRC Systematic literature reviews (SLRs) are increasingly becoming a foundation of rigorous scientific research, providing a structured and comprehensive approach to synthesizing existing knowledge in a specific subject area. The SLR methodology comprises systematic planning, literature search across multiple databases, quality assessment, data extraction, analysis and synthesis of findings. The scope of its application varies from answering very specific research questions to mapping an entire research field. The approach is guided by the requirements to minimize bias, enhance reliability, transparency and reproducibility and synthesise findings into actionable insights. The significance of the SLRs lies in its ability to support evidence-based decision-making, policy formulation, and shaping of future research directions. Learning Objectives: • Comparing different types of literature reviews and their requirements in a general context. • Explaining the systematic review process and its stages, including planning, conducting and reporting the review results • Performing a quick literature search in Scopus and exporting the results in excel for initial screening. Upon completion of the session, participants will be equipped with sufficient knowledge of the systematic review process and skills to conduct high-quality systematic reviews in their research practice. Session requirements: • Bring your own laptop, and ensure you can access Scopus document search page at https://www.scopus.com/ (optional) Facilitator: Dr Marija Cubric

66 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Teaching And Supporting Learning - PGCert THE On: Friday 8 and Monday 11 to Tuesday 12 September 2023, 09.00-17.00, room TBC.The module will combine online synchronous sessions with recorded materials and directed learning activities. On: Thursday 4 to Friday 5 and Monday 8 January 2024, 09.00-17.00, online Research students with significant teaching responsibility must undertake the first module of our PG Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education. This 15 credit point level 7 module ‘Teaching and Supporting Learning’ will introduce and develop key basic teaching and marking skills. The module is taught over a three day block and covers: • Consideration of how to plan teaching sessions • An introduction to learning and teaching theories • Technology enhanced learning guidance • Tips for enabling student interaction in classes • How to mark and provide effective feedback • Quality assurance and enhancement considerations. The module has assessments associated with it. These are carried out over the semester and include • A detailed lesson plan and pedagogically informed justification for the design (50%) • A teaching observation and reflection (25%) • A reflection on an observation of someone else’s teaching (25%) Successful completion of the module leads to national recognition as an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. Only those with significant teaching on which to reflect are able to undertake the module. Research students must confirm with their supervisors that they have at least 10 hours during the semester of study. Deadlines for Applications are: 1 August for September enrolment and 1 December for January enrolment. For further details of the module and to apply, please contact pgcertlt@herts.ac.uk. For a conversation about eligibility speak to programme leader Karen Clark (k.clark@herts.ac.uk) Facilitators: PGCertLTHE team

Finding Out About Teaching At UH Research students who do not yet have teaching or who are only undertaking occasional sessions are very welcome at professional development opportunities which may help prepare them to secure and be confident in delivering learning support work. These can be booked via HR Core, by searching under ‘Enhancing Educational Practice.

Cognitive strategies of compassion in high performance teams This session is organised by the Learning and Teaching Innovation Centre (LTIC) On: Friday 8 September 2023 , 1000-1200, in room B160 On: Friday 12 January 2024 , 1400-1600, room TBC This workshop will introduce the skills of compassionate interaction for small groups and to enable staff to be confident adopting these in their own practice. An interactive session which demonstrates ways to use compassionate teaching and assessment techniques. The underpinning rationale and evidence for adoption will be explained and participants will be invited to join the international network of 70+ universities advocating this approach to improve critical thinking and mental wellbeing. Facilitator: Dr Theo Gilbert

Decolonising And Diversifying This session is organised by the Learning and Teaching Innovation Centre (LTIC) On: Wednesday 25 October 2023, 1430-1600, room TBC On: Wednesday 6 and Thursday 7 March 2024, 9.30-17.00, L280 de Havilland LRC In this interactive session, you will think together about how we can apply principles of diversification and decolonisation to our teaching and practice. We will help you consider structures of power in your disciplines, ways of making the classroom more equitable, reframing colonial ideas, and surfacing historical contexts that will enhance your practice. Facilitators: Dr Peter D’Sena and Dr Chris Lloyd

68 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

Designing A Module This session is organised by the Learning and Teaching Innovation Centre (LTIC) On: Thursday 18 January 2024, 1000-1130 Online On: Wednesday 26 June 2024, 1400-1530 Online This interactive session is for anyone leading or developing a module and covers the key components of organising a module and ensuring a coherent and effective curriculum design that enhances student engagement. The workshop will examine ways that you can fully utilise features of Canvas to integrate your assessment designs within the wider curriculum and connect different learning activities throughout the module. We will also look at practical ways to bring different theories to life and underpin your practice. Facilitator: Neal Geach

New to Teaching at UH This session is organised by the Learning and Teaching Innovation Centre (LTIC) On: 21 September, 13.30-16.30 Online, Tuesday 26 September, 13.30-16.30, Thursday 11 January, 13.30-16.30 rooms TBC, Or Thursday 28 September 9.30-11.30 and Wednesday 17 January 15.00-1700 online This workshop will support visiting lecturers and staff new to teaching at UH with designing inclusive and effective teaching and learning. The session will include consideration of planning practical, seminar and lecture sessions, making those sessions engaging, teaching inclusively and assessment responsibilities. Facilitator: Dr Helen Pokorny

Technical Writing On: Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 November 2023, 9.30-17.00, L280, de Havilland LRC On: Wednesday 6 and Thursday 7 March 2024, 9.30-17.00, L280 de Havilland LRC This course aims to improve participants’ writing skills by describing and using a procedure which ensures that written work is clear, concise and effective. The objective is that at the end of the course, you will: • Recognise many common inaccuracies in scientists’ writing, and know how to avoid them • Be aware of the importance of writing clear, concise English, and understand various ways of achieving this • Know how to write the different components of a research paper • Be able to prepare clear, informative tables and figures • Be able to correct a proof accurately. The course provides guidelines for choosing and using words, writing clear, grammatically correct sentences, and producing typescripts that will be welcomed by readers (editors, referees, examiners or fellow scientists). It includes imaginative exercises, discussion sessions and demonstrations; these are based on examples selected both by the tutor and by the participants. The first day focuses on writing good English and the second on using it to write a research paper. All research students, post doctorate and academic staff who have to write (or co-write) papers, theses or reports would benefit from attending this course.

“ The expectations were exceeded – great examples, structure was fluid and easy on the head and loved the games!” “Excellent very comprehensive course.” External Facilitator: Dr David Cooke

70 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

The British PhD And How to Bag One On: Thursday 7 December 2023, 13.00-14.30, L280, de Havilland LRC The PhD was introduced to Britain from abroad but rapidly acclimatised and now has its own distinctive character and features. After attending the session, researchers should: • Have a better understanding of the provenance of the British PhD and its relation with other doctorates around the world • Understand what a PhD is awarded for at the University of Hertfordshire and what a researcher must demonstrate in order to obtain one. This session uses a quick historical overview as a vehicle for setting out the criteria for the award of PhD at the University of Hertfordshire today. A must for all PhD students, but particularly those from overseas, this session will also be of interest to anybody who has ever wondered where and how the British PhD originated. There will be an opportunity to discuss the intricacies of the PhD requirements. Hecklers welcome.

“It was a great session.” Facilitator: Dr Steven Adams

The Viva And Process of Research Degree Examination On: Thursday 5 October 2023, 13.00-14.00, L280, de Havilland LRC On: Thursday 1 February 2024, 11.00-12.00, L280, de Havilland LRC If there is anything that makes people shiver, it is the thought of the two to three hour interrogation on your research that is the research degree viva. This session will provide researchers with: • A greater understanding of what the viva examination is attempting to do and the format of a typical viva • More confidence that they might survive the viva in one piece • A clear idea of how they can prepare for the viva • An opportunity to ask all those questions you and everyone else would like to ask but nobody has the courage to voice The nature of the viva and how to successfully negotiate it will be discussed and this will focus predominantly on the student’s experience. The lead tutor will provide guidance on how to improve your performance, how to react in specific situations and what role your supervisor may have in the viva. Aspects of the viva as related to all research degrees will be discussed, not just PhD, and plenty of time will be given for participants to ask questions. Participants are encouraged to watch ‘The Good Viva’ video available on the RDP HertsHub page: https://herts365.sharepoint.com/:u:/r/sites/UHResearch/SitePages/SupportingInformation.aspx?csf=1&web=1&e=cF4BvI

“Was very good and I have better understanding of the Viva.” “Very informative, valuable information provided.” Facilitators: Dr Susan Grey and Nikki Hogg

72 Researcher Development Programme Handbook Sessions on Offer

There Is Nothing So Practical As A Good Theory On: Tuesday 17 October 2023, 9.30-12.30, L280, de Havilland LRC This session is aimed at those early in their doctorate who would like to understand more about the practical value of theoretical perspectives in guiding and facilitating their research. Using a real-world, worked example of a theory led piece of research, attendees will cover: • What do we mean, and not mean, by theory? • How does theory help my research? why is theory important to practice? • How can theory explain industry evolution? • What have we learned and how might we use it? This session complements and ideally precedes “Translating Your Research Interest into a Research Programme”. Facilitator: Professor Brian D Smith

Thesis Writing Bootcamp: Planning, Finishing and Avoiding Pitfalls On: Friday 22 March 2024, 9.30-12.30, online via Zoom This half day workshop explores the practicalities of thesis writing, including planning techniques, appropriate writing style and how to make writing more productive. At the start of the workshop, students are encouraged to share and discuss the challenges associated with writing, before we start discussing structure and expectations. A variety of writing and productivity techniques are introduced and this is complemented by a discussion of software tools that can be helpful. A section on data presentation is also included and examples of good figures are used to illustrate best practice. By the end of the workshop, students will have a clear understanding of what is required of their thesis, they will have initiated their writing, considered the potential pitfalls and know how to avoid them and started to design a writing strategy that works for them. At the end of this workshop students will have: • an understanding of the working structure of a thesis; • developed a greater awareness of the different stages of the writing process; • been introduced to techniques for planning their writing & being productive; • explored how to manage their thesis writing so as to make better use of the time, resources and technology available; • increased their understanding of the pitfalls of thesis writing, and how to avoid them.

“ Now have an idea now on how to plan and structure thesis writing, also have some useful resources.” External Facilitator: Dr Joanna Young

Thriving Resiliently During your Doctorate On: Thursday 9 November 2023, 10:00-16:00, L280, de Havilland LRC On: Wednesday 31 January 2024, 10:00-16:00, L280, de Havilland LRC This program weaves together insights from the exciting new science of positive psychology and the physiology of resilience. It is possible to increase your productivity, resilience and enjoyment of your research. The theory, tools and exercises used in this interactive workshop are all based on rigorous science and research. They have been selected for their ability to enhance your research work. During this workshop you will learn how to: • Increase your energy and resilience. • Understand the performance enhancer sleep and how to improve yours. • Develop the high positivity ratio of flourishing people. • Increase the time you spend in the deeply engaged state of “Flow” in your work. • Create a personal wellbeing report and learn how to optimise it.

“It was a great training session and good resources referenced – excellent.” “The most effective and beneficial session I’ve ever attended.” “ I have a much better understanding of what I can do to become more resilient. I have new goals to work on now that can assist.” External Facilitator: Hilda Barrett

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Translating Your Research Interest into a Programme of Research On: Friday 5 April 2024, 9.30-12.30, L280, de Havilland LRC This session is aimed at those early-stage researchers who have decided what they want to research but haven’t yet decided how to research it. It is intended to help your clarify and focus your research and help you develop an outline research plan. Attendees will cover: • Defining your phenomenon of interest • Defining your research questions • Deciding on a methodological approach • Sketching out a research programme This session complements and ideally precedes “Approaching the Literature Review”. It addresses the design of a research programme and is meant to complement later sessions on specific methods, such as “An Introduction to Mixed Methods Research”. Facilitator: Prof Brian Smith

TurnItIn On: Tuesday 14 November 2023, 10.45-11.30, L280, de Havilland LRC This session will guide you through the practical steps of submitting your work to the TurnItIn portal through HertsHub and give you some tips on how to read the TurnItIn report. Facilitator: Kathy Lee

Understanding & Planning For A Research Career On: Friday 5 April 2024, 9.30-12.30, online via Zoom Are you interested in pursuing an academic career? Many early career researchers are attracted to the academic life and consider it to be the next logical step in their career, however they may be unsure as to how to plan and prepare so that they can optimise their chances for success. This workshop will give an insight into the realities of academic careers, including case studies and examples from the instructor’s own experience. Participants will be asked to consider their career strategy going forward, regarding their research field, their accomplishments to date and their next steps. At the end of this course participants will have: • an overview of research careers and an understanding of the pathway to being an independent academic group leader; • what is expected of early career researchers; • an understanding of the next steps that they need to take to enhance their career prospects; • an understanding of the skills they have and those that they would like to develop further. This course is designed for PhD students (2nd year onwards) and early career postdocs working in scientific disciplines. No prior experience is necessary and the course is open to all. External Facilitator: Dr Joanna Young

Using Multiple Qualitative And Visual Methods in Research On: Wednesday 29 November 2023, 13.30-15.30, L280, de Havilland LRC This session will explore how engaging with multiples sources and types of data can help researchers to access different elements of everyday behaviours and practices. This includes sources and types of data from multiple, connected participants and data that spans the visual, textual and (in a more limited way) numerical spectrum. Attendees will gain a greater understanding of the complexity of mixed methods analyses, interpretation and dissemination of data. This session will suit researchers interested in using social science research methods and those with an interest, in particular, in qualitative methods.

“Enjoyable and informative.” Facilitator: Dr Angela Dickinson

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What To Consider When Selecting A Journal For Your Research Paper On: Tuesday 28 November 2023, 14.00-16.00, L280, de Havilland LRC The academic publishing world is changing significantly with shifting publishing models and an ever-increasing growth of peer-reviewed journals. More than 42,000 active scholarly peerreviewed journals were reported to exist in 2018 alone, and there’s been an accelerated growth of more than 5% in recent years. This overwhelming growth in journals makes it challenging for authors to find the best home for their research, particularly for those who are in the early stages of their career or those who publish in interdisciplinary areas. Selecting the right journal enables your research to reach your target audience, increasing the likelihood of it being read and cited and having an impact on the research community and society. Conversely, submitting to the wrong journal can hinder the impact of your paper, result in rejections and delays in getting published, and even worse, publishing in non-reputable/ predatory journals can diminish the credibility of your research and limit your career. The session will cover: • Most common reasons for article rejection • Sources of information to help you with making a shortlist of journals • Assessment of journals on your shortlist • Journal recommender and comparison tools • Checking the trustworthiness of a journal • Research metrics and their significance The session will include time for ‘hands-on’ to practice these tools and apply them to your own research topic. Facilitator: Evangelia (Evie) Kotsiliti

Working With Supervisors On: Thursday 21 March 2024, 10.00-12.00, L280, de Havilland LRC The session aims to support the development of productive and effective relationships between students and their supervisors throughout the research degree process and will include: • The nature of the student-supervisor relationship including the roles, duties and expectations of both student and supervisor • Potential issues and how to deal with these • An opportunity for students to raise and discuss any issues and experiences with each other, and with the RDP session facilitators (both highly experienced supervisors) • The session will run for two hours and will include interactive group work in addition to the delivery by both facilitators and an opportunity to speak with the facilitators individually towards the end of the session.

“ I now have enough information on how to manage the relationship with my supervisor.” Facilitators: Professor Lia Kvavilashvili and Professor Grace Lees-Maffei

Writing A Literature Review With Zotero And Obsidian On: Tuesday 27 February 2024, 13.00-14.00, L280, de Havilland LRC As a follow-up to Mark and Phil’s workshops on Zotero and Obsidian, this practical session aims to demonstrate how you can unleash the powers of these free tools and use them to prepare and write a literature review. You will benefit most from this session if you install Zotero and Obsidian in advance and bring your laptop with you to the workshop. Facilitators: Mark Holloway and Phil Gainley

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Writing A Winning Research Proposal On: Thursday 14 March 2024, 13.30-16.30, room TBC This session is aimed at those who need to gain approval for their programme of research. It is intended to help you understand what approval panels are looking for and to write a proposal that will convince them to support you. Attendees will cover: • Why the proposal process is necessary and useful • What an approval panel wants to know • How a research proposal structure guides you • How to write a winning research proposal This session requires no previous knowledge and does not require attendance at any other session. Attendees will benefit most if they bring along any research proposal templates they have been asked to complete. Facilitator: Professor Brian D Smith

Writing For And Submitting To A Journal On: Wednesday 18 October 2023, 11.00-12.30, online via MSTeams This session will support people to develop an article out of their research to be submitted for publication. Journal publications are an important method for broadcasting, promoting and raising the visibility of your research as well as for connecting with your academic, research and/or practice communities as well as non-academic audiences. We will examine ways to develop a conference presentation or poster into an article; extracting material from a thesis to make an article; and how to get into publishing whilst conducting a research project. Doctoral students can evidence one of the examination criteria that their work is of publishable standard if they have already successfully published in a suitable journal. Furthermore, publications can boost your career prospects, contribute to your impact plan and to Applications for research funding. We will examine journal guidelines for authors, track the trajectory from submission to publication, including peer reviewing, and some practical strategies will be offered in, for example, the selection of suitable journals, publishers etc. Issues such as predatory journals, ethics, ‘open access’, copyright, publishers’ regulations, citation rates, download counts and collaboration will be covered. By the end of the session you will have: • An increased confidence to start the process of writing an article for publication • A strategy for how to begin a publishing career • A greater understanding of how journal editors go about publishing works • Increased knowledge of the world of journals, articles and authors This session will be of use to doctoral students, early career researchers and all staff interested to embark on publishing their work.

“Expectations exceeded, it was a very good session.” Facilitator: Professor Helen Payne

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Online Provision Internal The internal online provision for RDP includes both mandatory online sessions and other online sessions. The following two online courses are mandatory for all research students: Research Integrity – ONLINE What is Research Integrity? What is Research Misconduct? Is there anything in between? What are the potential consequences of committing research misconduct? Is ignorance an excuse? This online course will explore these questions through consideration of a number of cases. It will also outline your responsibilities as a researcher in line with both the UK Concordat for Research Integrity and the UK Research Integrity Office Code of Practice for Research. Plagiarism and How to Avoid It – ONLINE Plagiarism can arise through the use of cut-and-paste techniques, poor paraphrasing and incorrect citation and referencing techniques. This course explores definitions of plagiarism and some ways in which it can be avoided by using source material correctly. This online course will cover: • Authorship • The use of the Turnitin plagiarism detection software to identify poor practice • Advice on referencing technique To complete both these course, please go to the RDP Online Provision page on HertsHub https://herts365.sharepoint.com/:u:/r/sites/UHResearch/SitePages/Mandatory-OnlineSessions.aspx?csf=1&web=1&e=ETbM7w.

Vitae Vitae is a global leader in supporting the professional development of researchers, experienced in working with institutions as they strive for research excellence, innovation and impact. It is a non-profit programme, with over 45 years’ experience in enhancing the skills and careers of researchers. It provides member institutions, of which the University of Hertfordshire is one, with research, innovation and consultancy services, training and resources, and an events programme. Register with Vitae and access a wealth of members’ resources here: https://www.vitae.ac.uk/ The following are some of the resources available which will be useful to doctoral students: • Starting your doctorate • During your doctorate • Completing your doctorate • Part-time researchers on film There are also a number of researcher booklets available which offer practical advice and tips tailored to researchers on topics chosen to support professional development. Each booklet includes advice and suggested exercises to work through. • The Enterprising Researcher • The Informed Researcher • The Engaging Researcher • The Balanced Researcher • The Creative Researcher • The Leading Researcher • The Career-wise Researcher • The UK Research Integrity Office UKRIO has several publications available including good practice guidelines, case studies and guidance for researchers which complement our online Research Integrity course. These can be accessed at: http://ukrio.org/publications The UK’s Intellectual Property Office Information, publications and e-learning tools are available at this site: https://www.gov. uk/government/publications/intellectual-property-for-business/ip-for-business-tools and https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/intellectual-property-office Critical thinking There are several organisations including The US Foundation for Critical Thinking https:// www.criticalthinking.org which has a wealth of online resources and The UK’s Cambridge Critical Thinking Society http://www.livetag.com/ccts/index. html which features a range of online resources including a number of free YouTube videos.

82 Researcher Development Programme Handbook 2022-2023 About the Contributors

About the Contributors Dr Rashid Ali Rashid Ali has many years of Industrial and academic teaching experience. Has worked as a consultant for many blue-collar companies in automation and process control. His teaching experience is both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. He strongly believes in enriching the student experience by adopting a holistic approach to teaching and learning, where experiential learning and research plays a pivotal role. He takes a keen interest in Pedagogic research which enables enhanced outcomes either theoretical or conceptual. He employs Project/Problem based learning in delivering Aerospace Curriculum. Over the last 12 years. Rashid Ali has built up research interests in the area of Autonomous Systems, he was e member of the Autonomy NTC, was a founding member of the Committee of the IMechE, which oversees a UAS competition in the UK. Aircraft Design and Application of control theory to UAS applications is the principal focus of research. He is presently involved in the following research areas: • Implementation of a modified robust Kalman Filter for UAV flight control applications on DSP. • Propeller trailing edge noise reduction UAS Applications • Active configurable hybrid capacitor as energy storage element for UAS • Active PITCH Control Vertical Wind Turbines • Fuel Cell Design for High Altitude UAS Operation • Energy Recovery during Landing Phase of Flight Operation Mary Baldwin Mary is a Careers Adviser at the University of Hertfordshire. She is highly experienced in working with research students and has a wealth of careers advice knowledge across the whole graduate recruitment market Hilda Barrett Hilda has an MSc in Positive Psychology. Originally an International HR Director in the high-tech sector, Hilda worked for Apple, Microsoft and Electronic Arts. She now works in the corporate world at board level and with senior teams using science and evidence-based ways to help them thrive resiliently, both individually and collectively. She has lectured on Westminster University’s innovative program “Women for the Board” and worked with the leadership teams at Newcastle University London and the University of East London. She is also pioneering positive psychology and lifestyle medicine programs to a wide variety of audiences.

Professor Elias Brinks Elias earned his doctorate in astrophysics at Leiden University in The Netherlands. After Postdoctoral Fellowships in Germany and the UK, he moved to the USA to take up a position at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (New Mexico). After several years he moved to “Old” Mexico, helping his Mexican colleagues to set up a Department of Astronomy at the University of Guanajuato and, later as staff scientist at INAOE in Puebla. In September 2004 he returned to the UK on an appointment of Professor at the University of Hertfordshire where he currently is Associate Director of the Doctoral College for Research as well as Professor of Astrophysics in the Department of Physics, Astronomy & Mathematics of the School of PECS. His research focuses on nearby normal and dwarf galaxies, galaxy interactions, their formation and evolution. He is Editor-inChief of the journal Astrophysics and Space Science, and until recently Section Editor for Physics of the Open Access journal 4open. Dr Margaret Collins Margaret is a professional coach who creates and delivers tailored training courses and workshops for many universities and research institutes. The question “How does that work” has inspired her career, firstly as a researcher (a molecular biologist) and as a lecturer and senior lecturer. As she noticed that some students/researchers were apparently “more successful” than others, she again asked “How does that work?”. Whilst still a university academic, she trained as a professional coach and subsequently in neurolinguistic programming (NLP), cognitive behavioural coaching (CBC) and neuropsychology. She enjoys working with people to build their confidence, to develop the skills they need to be successful and to be the best version of themselves. Dr David Cooke David had a long career in the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, working mainly on pests of the sugar-beet crop. He now uses his extensive writing and editing experience to deliver training courses to staff and students both in the Research Councils and in several universities throughout the UK. He aims to make the courses interesting, stimulating and, above all, useful in making the process of writing theses, papers and reports easier, quicker and more successful. Dr Angela Dickinson Angela is a Senior Research Fellow in the Centre for Research in Public Health and Community Care (CRIPACC). She is a social scientist with research interests in older people’s health, food and nutrition and falls and has undertaken research in community, hospital, care home and mental health care settings. Recent research has included complex and mixed method evaluations as well as visual methods funded by a number of streams of the UK NIHR, Food Standards Agency and ESCR. She is currently undertaking work exploring vulnerability and ageing.

84 Researcher Development Programme Handbook 2022-2023 About the Contributors

Sajid Fadlelseed Sajid Fadlelseed received the MSc in Computer Science (specialisation in Advanced Computer Science) at the University of Hertfordshire (United Kingdom) in 2017. He is currently working towards his PhD in computer science at the University of Hertfordshire. His current work focuses on mixed-criticality scheduling and his main interests are realtime embedded systems, fault-tolerance, NoC architectures and mixed-criticality systems. Sajid is sponsored by National University, Sudan. Besides his Ph.D. studies, he is serving as a member of the Research and Development Program (RDP) at the University of Hertfordshire. Dr Peter Fraser Peter is Senior Lecturer in Marketing at Hertfordshire Business School. Almost all his teaching now lies in the areas of small business and entrepreneurship. He is an active member of the Academy of Marketing Special Interest Groups (SIGs) in Entrepreneurial and Small Business Marketing; and in Arts, Heritage, Non-profit and Social Marketing. His research interests lie in Arts Marketing especially the Performing Arts; and entrepreneurial and small business marketing. Along with his brothers Iain and Stephen he has been since 2009 a co-creator of the website OperaScotland. Peter is a very experienced research supervisor and examiner of research students. Phil Gainley Phil Gainley is an experienced Senior Product Manager (previously CTO) with proven experience in delivering strategic aims that provide short and long-term business growth, driven by customer-driven product and service design supported by a strong background in engineering with experience managing local and remote teams. Interested in personal knowledge management and how it can reduce mental effort (cognitive load). Currently working on a PHD in Advancing Command and Control with Virtual Reality using Quantitative methods. Professor Theo Gilbert Theo is a member of the University’s Learning and Teaching Innovation Centre, and the Business School. He is an Associate Professor in Learning and Teaching. His applied research is being used in the public sector for enhancing critically compassionate problem solving in teams. Dr Susan Grey Susan is the Director of the Doctoral College and Director of Research Degrees, Chair of the Research Degrees Board, Chair of the Ethics Committee, Chair of the Advisory Group on Research Governance and Clinical Studies and Institutional Lead in Research Integrity. Prior to her current role Susan has held research and consultancy posts at the University of Nottingham, University of Birmingham, the Bank of Ireland Centre for Cooperative studies and PA Consulting Group. Dr Avice Hall MBE Avice started lecturing in plant pathology at the then Hatfield Polytechnic, where she has stayed as the institution developed, expanded and became the University of Hertfordshire over the last 40+ years. In 2010 she was awarded a Vice Chancellor’s award for ‘Educational engagement with business and the profession’ and in 2012 she was awarded an MBE for her contribution to higher education at the University of Hertfordshire and the community in St Albans. Avice recently celebrated her 50 Years Service Award.

Dr Melanie Handley Melanie is a research fellow for the health and care of older people. Her research focuses on care provision and services in hospitals and in care homes for people living with dementia. Mohamed Hansraj Mohamed is an IT Consultant in the Research and Scholarly Communications team within LCS. As a member of the Research and Scholarly Communications (RSC) Team, Mohamed is the lead consultant on the research IT systems used by the University and provides advice and guidance on research data management to the University’s research community. Mohamed has a strong background in IT system development, data security and research data management. Dr Anthony Herbland Anthony is Educational Technologist and Senior Lecturer in the School of Health and Social Work at UH. He joined UH in 1996 as an undergraduate student and started working for the University in 2001. He completed his PhD in 2007. His research interests are inclusive of statistical methodology; survey design, validation and analysis; and educational technology research. Nikki (Nicola) Hogg Nikki is a Team Leader within the Doctoral College professional staff team and oversees all aspects of the final examination process, ensuring the integrity and quality of research degrees awarded by the University are preserved. She has extensive knowledge of the University’s policies and procedures with regard to final viva examinations and is always happy to assist students, supervisors and examiners with any queries they may have. Charlotte Holloway Charlotte is Senior Research Impact Facilitator in the Research Office. She works with academics across the university to plan, develop and record the impact of their work. She previously worked at UCL developing impact case studies for REF2014. Prior to this at Imperial College, Charlotte helped to develop and deliver training courses in London and the Middle East in conjunction with the World Health Organisation. Over the years she has also worked for an SME, two multinationals and a charity, which has given her a good insight into the many ways academic research is used across society, and the huge value it has; but also the challenges involved in reaching different audiences. Charlotte studied Classics at Cambridge, Arabic at SOAS, then Health Sciences and Public Health Promotion with the Open University. Mark Holloway Mark joined the University of Hertfordshire in 2020 and is now Head of Academic Skills Development. He has been working in Higher Education for over 20 years, largely in the areas of English for Academic Purposes, Applied Linguistics, and Academic Skills. Mark studied English Language and Literature to Masters level, but is now undertaking a Professional Doctorate in Education, in which he is exploring the role of writing in learning and teaching at university. He has a particular interest in how writing relates to identity and our sense of belonging to a community.

86 Researcher Development Programme Handbook 2022-2023 About the Contributors

Professor Diana Kornbrot Diana is Emeritus Professor of Mathematical Psychology, having formerly been Head of Health & Human Sciences Research Institute and a member of UH Research Degrees and Research Policy Committee. Her current research interests are in statistical methodology, decision-making, thinking and survey design and analysis. Her former roles include President of the International Society for Psychophysics and Chair of the Maths, Stats & Computing section of the British Psychological Society. Her research has been supported by grants from the ESRC, the Royal Society and the NHS. Please find further details at: https://dianakornbrot.wordpress.com Evangelia (Evie) Kotsiliti Evie is the Information Manager in Research and Scholarly Communications, based in the Library and Computing Services. She supports researchers with getting published and navigating the rapidly changing Open Research landscape to maximise visibility and impact of their publications and ensure compliance with funder policies. Evie works collaboratively with other colleagues across the University to shape the University’s research culture via the promotion of Open Research practices and to take up publisher deals enabling open access publishing at no cost to our authors. Evie has a good insight into various aspects of the research lifecycle as, prior to joining the University of Hertfordshire, she had various research-focused roles at the University of Lincoln, including post-award management, management of the institutional repository and research information system and overseeing open access compliance for the REF2021 submission. Professor Lia Kvavilashvili Lia is a professor of cognitive psychology at the Department of Psychology and Sport Sciences at UH. She joined the department as an independent research fellow in 1995, having completed her PhD in psychology in 1985 in Tbilisi, Georgia (then part of the Soviet Union). Her main research interests focus on memory and ageing with a particular emphasis on memory phenomena that involve spontaneous retrieval processes (i.e., when memories and thoughts pop into mind without deliberate intention to recall them). Currently, she is working on a project examining early cognitive markers of Alzheimer’s disease. Other research topics involve verbal hallucinations in schizophrenia, and negative intrusive memories in normal and clinical populations and developing methods for studying such spontaneous transient phenomena. She has enjoyed supervising part- and full-time PhD students and has examined a large number of research students in and outside the UK. Dr Bendan Larvor Brendan studied philosophy and mathematics at Balliol College, University of Oxford, before embarking on a brief career as a systems analyst. He quickly resumed his studies in philosophy, taking an MA from Queen’s University Ontario before returning to Balliol to write a doctoral thesis on The Philosophy of Mathematics of Imre Lakatos. He taught at the Universities of Liverpool and Oxford before joining Hertfordshire in 1997. He specialises in the history and philosophy of mathematics. His current project is to develop a historically sensitive and properly philosophical approach to the study of mathematical practice.

Kathy Lee Kathy has worked for the University administering research degrees since 2003. Kathy has extensive knowledge of every aspect of the research degree process from admissions, annual monitoring, assessments, through to final examination and conferment and helps train students, supervisors and examiners. The University’s processes and procedures are vital to ensure the integrity and international quality of its research degrees and Kathy’s expert knowledge is always available to help students and supervisors through them. Professor Grace Lees-Maffei Grace Lees-Maffei PhD is Professor of Design History and Programme Director for DHeritage, the Professional Doctorate in Heritage. She is Chair of the Editorial Board of the Journal of Design History, published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Design History Society. Grace is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, the Royal Historical Society and AdvanceHE. At Hertfordshire, she chaired the Researcher Development Group (2014-2019) and was Research Group Leader for the Theorising Visual Art and Design (TVAD) Research Group (2004-2018). Alongside her role at UH, Grace was Visiting Professor for both the Doctorate in Design at IADE-U, Lisbon and the MA Design Cultures at Vrije University, Amsterdam (2013-15). Grace’s research into the mediation of design and national identity and globalization in design has been published in numerous articles and she has written/edited eight books. Dr Lisa Lione Lisa is an Associate Professor in Translational Pharmacology research in the School of LMS at the University of Hertfordshire (UH). Lisa’s teaching and research is collaborative combining her specialised in vivo skills with industry experience in drug discovery and translational science. Lisa currently supervises 3 PhD students at UH funded by QR, industry and internationally and is an academic consultant for the SME, Transpharmation Ltd http://www.transpharmation.co.uk. Lisa is particularly interested in the promotion and sharing of best practice in animal welfare, ethics and the 3Rs (she is the UH representative for concordat on openness of animal research and a member of the national NC3Rs studentship assessment panel) as well as raising awareness of pharmacology and drugs education in schools and universities (she is an expert advisory panel member for Mentor UK, a school governor and external examiner at the Universities of Portsmouth and Central Lancashire). http://researchprofiles.herts.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/lisalione(e2df4c0f-b1a1-4356-82a2-7f3c52563bca).html Professor Brian Littlechild Brian is the lead for Research for Social Work in the Department of Nursing and Social Work. He is a qualified and registered social worker and has carried out 20 funded qualitative and mixed methods research projects and published widely on mental health issues. Brian is a founder member and Board member of the European Research Institute for Social Work. He has been a consultant and researcher to the Council of Europe, and is a consultant to UNICEF and Parliamentary Committees on work with young offenders. He has recently worked on a NIHCE Guideline Development Group on violence in Mental Health work, and is now an Expert Adviser to NIHCE. He has recently worked on a Health Foundation Closing the Gap Project on Prospective Hazard Analysis and Human Factors approaches in the NHS.

88 Researcher Development Programme Handbook 2022-2023 About the Contributors

Cathy Lonngren-Sampaio After graduating in Spanish and Portuguese from the University of Leeds, Cathy spent 12 years teaching English as a foreign language in Brazil. She completed an MA in Applied Linguistics at the State University of Ceara (Fortaleza, Brazil) before returning to England to train as a Modern Foreign Languages secondary school teacher. While teaching part time in both the secondary and primary sector, Cathy completed her PhD in Linguistics at the University of Hertfordshire in 2015. Her research involved the investigation of code-switching in an electronic corpus of child bilingual language, data she collected and transcribed herself. In the following year she began lecturing in English Language and Linguistics at UH and currently teaches on both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes (specifically the MA in TESOL). She is also the Study Abroad coordinator for the School of Humanities. Her research interests lie in the field of Corpus Linguistics which involves using corpus-query software (such as Sketch Engine) to investigate all aspects of language in various types of language corpora. Dr Jamie McDonald Jamie’s research roots are in ecology and entomology. He went from a degree to a PhD to post-doctoral research to two consulting jobs. He actually loves the University environment, and the specialism of academic and consulting jobs but found, in time, that he preferred working with people, instead of insects! He now runs his own business that specialises in training and coaching University people, from PhD students to academics, researchers, staff and senior leaders. His work focuses on building resilience, confidence, leadership and positive relationships – enabling people to get the best from themselves and others, without stress. Dr Joanne McDowell Dr Joanne McDowell is a Principal Lecturer in English Language and Linguistics in the School of Humanities. Her specialist research areas include gender and language, sociolinguistics, discourse analysis, educational discourse and workplace discourse. She employs mixed methods approaches to her data collection, and analyses quantitative and qualitative data using various data management tools such as NVivo and SPSS. Professor Chris Mowles Professor Chris Mowles is director of the Doctor of Management programme (DMan) at Hertfordshire Business School. The DMan programme draws on the complexity sciences and social sciences in an inter-disciplinary approach to developing deeper insights into practical, every day organisational dilemmas. It attracts senior managers and leaders from all over the world. Chris is an associate member of the Institute of Group Analysis (IGA), and has Group Work Practitioner status. He has also run his own consultancy company and has worked in China for the British government, in the Middle East for the UN, in many countries in Asia and Africa on EU-funded projects, and in the UK in voluntary, public and private sectors. Liz Nolan Liz Nolan, Director of the Research Office, has more than 20 years experience in research management in three universities – Hertfordshire, De Montfort University and SOAS, University of London. She has a particular interest in supporting early career researchers to understand the requirements of new initiatives such as narrative CVs.

Stewart O’Reilly Stewart is a professional actor and performance coach, delivering courses on communication skills and personal impact through his company, Gradtrain. He also runs a production company Home Run Films which specialises in in-house training and marketing videos for universities, individuals, and businesses. After training as an actor at LAMDA, he applied his communications skills as an Employee Engagement manager for several large financial services firms. Stewart regularly works with large corporate and public sector companies helping employees to have better outcomes through learning about their own communication styles, increasing the awareness of the impact of these, and improving their performance so that they be confident in any one-to-one or large group setting. Dr Derek Ong Dr. Derek Ong is currently Principal Lecture in Marketing and Associate Head of Subject Group (Scholarly Practice) with Hertfordshire Business School with experience teaching Marketing, Research and E-Commerce subjects for close to 20 years. Prior to academia he has worked in HSBC and has experience in Marketing Research and Applications Consultant with SPSS Malaysia. His current research centers around Social and Sustainable Marketing (Food Waste, Health Marketing and Minority issues), Digital Marketing, Sports Marketing presenting papers in main international Marketing conferences like ANZMAC, GMC and AMA earning several best paper awards. Derek has published and reviewed academic papers in top tier marketing journals like Journal of Services Marketing, Asia Pacific Journal of Marketing and Logistics, and Journal of Social Marketing where he is also serving on the editorial committee. Derek is a Chartered Statistician and a fellow of the Royal Statistical Society of UK and recently Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy of UK. https://researchprofiles.herts.ac.uk/en/persons/derek-ong Professor Helen Payne Helen Payne, PhD (London), is editor-in-chief for an international journal published by Taylor and Francis and a peer reviewer for various journals and research funding bodies around the world. She has published widely in article, book and chapter formats nationally and internationally. She is an engaged researcher having led a knowledge transfer project into the NHS which led to impact world-wide. She has written on ethical practice and been a member of a university sub-division of the ethics committee. Her interests include arts psychotherapies, academic mentoring of researchers, mental health and wellbeing, and personal and professional learning and development especially through embodied methodologies.

90 Researcher Development Programme Handbook 2022-2023 About the Contributors

Isabel Pollen With the combination of over 25 years as a Professional Actress on stage and screen, and almost 13 years as a Professional Coach working around the globe across multiple industries, Isabel is uniquely positioned to facilitate the practice of confidence and connection with our audience and each other. Isabel obtained a scholarship to attend RADA (Royal Academy of Dramatic Art) gaining a three-year Acting Diploma, and has worked extensively in the West End, Broadway. This includes her recent role as the lead in Emma Rice’s ‘Brief Encounter’ on the Haymarket and UK tour. Her work also includes TV, Commercial, Independent Film and BBC productions in this country as well as overseas. Isabel was nominated for the prestigious ‘Carlton Hobbs’ award whilst at RADA and she continues to do regular voice over work. Isabel is also the founder of her own work ‘Isabel Pollen’, as well as working with consultancies such as Fieri Leadership and Dark Swan. Isabel’s clients include Gordon Ramsay Restaurant Group, Mizuho Bank, Nesta, Smart Tech, Wipro, Cardiff University, CDC Global, Hertfordshire University, Wagamama, Mitsubishi UFJ, Partners Group, Aimmune, Coca Cola, Hyundai, iTECH Media, Johnson and Johnson, Mitsui Corporation Bank, Cote Restaurants, GAM,T Rowe Price, Microsoft Research, Primark as well as numerous others. Her work includes designing and delivering Leadership Development, Communication and Presentation trainings from 1:1 clients from C-suite/exec, throughout teams and organisations all the way through to 14/15-year-olds. Isabel uses performance and coaching techniques and to support and amplify physical, psychological, and emotional awareness. One of Isabel’s favourite quotes is from Dolly Parton: ‘Find out who you are and do it on purpose’. Supri (Supramade) Rajiv Joined UH in August 2020 as a Research Grants Coordinator, working with academics across the university to plan and develop their research grants for external submission. Since May 2022 she has taken on the role of Senior Research Grants Coordinator, supporting academics with research bid development. Before UH, she worked for 2 years at the British Deputy High Commission, India, as the UK-India Science & Innovation team coordinator, promoting research collaboration between UK and India. Her background is in Food Science with a BSc in Nutrition and Dietetics, she also served as a research officer at the St Johns National Academy of Health Sciences, co ordinating Clinical Trials. Kathryn Redway After graduating in business studies in Paris, combined with German and English, Kathryn worked in the USA, then in London gaining practical experience in industry and business. Since then she has run her own business. Her work is divided into three parts: Training, Coaching and writing management books. The most popular seminars are Rapid Reading , Maximise your Memory and using Creativity to solve problems where she has trained over 20,000, 15,000 and 12,000 respectively in the UK and abroad. Monica Rivers-Latham Monica has worked at UH since 2006 as Faculty Information Consultant and Information Manager, supporting specific Schools as well as the University’s research community. Monica gained a first class degree from Nottingham University, a postgraduate degree in information science from City University, and became a Chartered Member of CILIP (Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals) in 2000. Her previous experience includes working at Kings College Medical School and the University of Westminster as a subject librarian supporting Business and Finance.

Dr Felipe Romero Moreno Felipe is a Senior Lecturer and Research Tutor at Hertfordshire Law School. He is a member of the executive committee of the British and Irish Law Education and Technology Association (BILETA). He specialises in IT/IP law and holds a Ph.D, an LLM by Research in IT/IP and an LLM in International Trade and Commercial Law, all of these from Oxford Brookes University. His research primarily focuses on the intersection of new and emerging technologies (eg AI) with human rights such as, intellectual property, privacy, data protection, freedom of expression and due process. Bridget Russell Bridget joined the Research Office as a Research Impact Facilitator in November 2017 working with academics across the university to plan, develop and record the impact of their work. Previously she studied Psychology followed by Cognitive Neuropsychology at UH. From 2012 she worked in the Centre for Health Services and Clinical Research (CHSCR) investigating the experiences of people with psychosis; moving to the Centre for Research in Public Health, and Community Care (CRIPACC) in 2014 to work on projects which address the issues of living with multiple long-term health problems. She has inside knowledge of the day to day issues of grant Applications, ethics committees (including the NHS), data collection and analysis, and writing up findings to deliver a research project on time. Rebecca Scott Rebecca Scott is the Information Manager for the School of Health and Social Work. She graduated from UCL with an MA in Library and Information Studies in 2016. Rebecca joined UH in 2021 having previously worked in the NHS. She has contributed to several systematic literature reviews in health and social work topics. Rebecca is a member of the RLUK Research Catalyst Cohort 2022 programme for academic librarians to develop as researchers. Her research interests include qualitative methods, practitioners as researchers, academic and health librarianship and systematic searching methods. Dr Pat Simpson Pat is Reader in Social History of Art, and also the ex- Research Tutor for the School of Creative Arts at the University of Hertfordshire. Her globally recognised, cutting-edge research into Soviet and Post- Soviet art and its relationships with politics, feminism, Darwinism, eugenics, genetics, heritage and health issues, has been widely disseminated at many international conferences, and published in scholarly journals such as: Russian Review; Oxford Art Journal; Art History; Sculpture Journal; The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Art; The International Journal of the History of Sport, and the Journal of the History of Collections. She has also contributed to a number of scholarly anthologies, most recently two chapters respectively in: F. Brauer, ed. Vitalist Modernism: Art Science, Energy and Creative Evolution, London and New York: Routledge, 2023; and N. Krementov, & Y. Howell, eds, The Art and Science of Making The New Man in Early 20th- Century Russia, London: Bloomsbury Academic, 2021. In addition, she is an experienced PhD supervisor (3 student completions) and an international external examiner (4 successful students).

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Professor Brian D Smith Brian is an Adjunct Professor at SDA Bocconi University Milan, an Associate Professor at University College London’s Global Business School for Health and Visiting Professor at the University of Hertfordshire. He has authored 8 books, over 300 papers and articles and consults widely in the pharmaceutical and medical technology sectors. Brian gained his first degree in Chemistry from the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne. He then worked in the biomedical sector for 20 years, as a research chemist and a marketer He then gained his PhD at Cranfield, studying the effectiveness of strategy formation processes in medical markets. His research focus is now the application of Generalised Darwinism to the business models and strategies of pharmaceutical and medical technology companies. He also has a great interest in making academic research more relevant to practice and practice more knowledgebased. Brian is married, with three daughters and a whippet. He enjoys playing saxophone and riding his bike but not at the same time. SSCU Team The Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit (SSCU) is part of the University’s Hertfordshire Business School. The Unit undertakes research and commercial work in Statistics across the University and for external businesses and organisations. Statistical Services and Consultancy Unit Contact Details: Telephone: +44 (0) 1707 285574; Fax: +44 (0) 1707 285455 E-mail: statistics@herts.ac.uk; http://go.herts.ac.uk/sscu Tara Stebnicky Tara joined UH in August 2018 as a Research Impact Facilitator, working with academics across the university to plan, develop and record the impact of their work. Since May 2021 she has been on the Research Grants Team, supporting academics with research bid submissions. Before UH, she worked for 5 years at the Royal College of Art, providing editorial support for researchers initially with the College’s REF submission and then with research grant applications. Her background is in academic book publishing, having spent 8 years as a Commissioning Editor for Routledge. Tara studied English Literature and Psychology at Roehampton University. Dr Shori Thakur Shori studied Pharmacology between 1996 and 2000 and subsequently went on to complete a PhD in Molecular Pharmacology at the University of Hertfordshire. This was followed by a 3 year GlaxoSmithKline-funded postdoctoral fellowship before taking up a position as a Senior Lecturer in Pharmacology in 2007. She has continued her research career, successfully supervising PhD and Masters Students. She is currently a Principal Lecturer in Pharmacology, Researcher Development Programme Manager for the Doctoral College and the Deputy Associate Director of the Doctoral College for the Schools of Life and Medical Sciences and Health and Social Work. She has recently been appointed as only one of six Ambassadors of the British Pharmacological Society in a pilot scheme that has been launched to promote pharmacology nationally and internationally.

Paul Toombs Paul has over 30 years’ experience in enabling people to be superior performers. He retains links with universities and works nationally with researchers. He is an Associate of Vitae and leader for the suite of Effective Researcher courses. He directs and tutors on GRAD schools; leads Broadening Horizons, a course on career management; leads the Leadership in Action course and the Preparing for Leadership course, the Collaborative Researcher, and the Engaging Researcher. He has also co-developed workshops on Social Enterprise; and Innovation and Intrapreneurship. Paul also supports the Windsor Fellowship, a charity that runs personal development and training programmes targeting talented Black and Asian students in the UK. Professor Brendan Whittle Brendan Whittle is Emeritus Professor of Applied Pharmacology at the William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and also Visiting Professor at the University of Hertfordshire and the University of Tampere, Finland. He received his D.Sc. Ph.D., and B. Pharm. from the University of London and the Gaddum Prize and the Sandoz Prize from the British Pharmacological Society, being now an Honorary Fellow. He is a Director of William Harvey Research Ltd, having spent 20 years in the pharmaceutical sector at Wellcome Research Laboratories, latterly as Director of Pharmacology, and is a consultant to major pharma companies. He has published some 400 papers and reviews, being an ISI Highly Cited Researcher. His research includes studies on the gastro-intestinal tract, with a focus on mediators in gastric damage and in inflammatory diseases. He now works primarily on pulmonary vascular disease, holding a number of patents in this area. Dr Joanna Young Joanna received her PhD (in neuroscience & informatics) from the University of Edinburgh prior to completing a three-year postdoctoral position there. Joanna was awarded a prestigious European Humboldt postdoctoral fellowship in 2010 which she turned down in order to set up her company, The Scientific Editing Company. She now works with researchers from all over the world, delivering workshops and helping them to publish and communicate their research. Joanna organises an annual conference in Edinburgh on research communication, (http://reconevent.com/) in addition to other PhD student career events.

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Additional Support at UH In addition to the Doctoral College, support is available from:

The Research Office The Research Office is part of the Office of the Vice-Chancellor (OVC). We provide support to research activity across all Schools, Research Centres and groups at the University, including support to the Theme Champions, for grant applications and awards, preparation for the Research Excellence Framework (REF), the management of the Research Information System (RIS) and provision of research-related management information. We work closely with other administrative units across the University including Enterprise and Business Development, Finance, Human Resources and Marketing and Communications to deliver a quality support service to research and academic staff. Visit the Research pages on HertsHub https://herts365.sharepoint.com/sites/UHResearch for full information on the range of services the Research Office provides. We can also offer bespoke/on-request training for schools and groups of researchers on a number of topics, such as: • Research Office Induction • Finding funding opportunities, tailored to the career level and research field of the audience, and including arranging funder visits • Bid writing support, both introductory and advanced bid development • RIS refresher sessions. For more information please contact ro.enquiries@herts.ac.uk

Researcher Development Group The University’s Researcher Development Group promotes researcher development across the University and implements the Concordat to support the Career Development of Researchers and Vitae’s Researcher Development Framework. The RDG is responsible for ensuring the University’s successful compliance with the European Community’s HR Excellence in Research award. The group is chaired by an active researcher drawn from the academic staff and membership consists of Early Career Researcher representatives from each of the Schools to facilitate two-way communication on researcher development issues, and representatives from Human Resources, the Equality Office, the Research Office and the Careers Office. The RDG convenes a biennial University-wide researcher development conference with the Doctoral College. Read more about Researcher Development at the University of Hertfordshire here: https://www.herts.ac.uk/research/ research-management/research-development

Equality and Diversity The University of Hertfordshire is committed to advancing equality of opportunity, embracing, and celebrating the diversity of our community, and fostering a cohesive and inclusive culture. We believe that the inclusion of different voices and unique perspectives is what makes our community thrive. It enhances our research, enriches our teaching, and strengthens our ability to provide an exceptional education to all. Student Support At Herts, we are proud of the diversity of our student community. The diversity and lived experience of our student community enriches everything we do, but even more so when it comes to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion initiatives. Further information on the support available including Disability and Wellbeing Service, the Chaplaincy and Report and Support is available on our website. Staff Support At Herts, we celebrate and value the diversity of our workforce and seek to provide a positive working and learning environment free from discrimination, harassment, or victimisation. Supporting diversity creates an environment where staff not only feel supported but also have the confidence to reach their full potential. Further information and support for our staff is available on our website and on HertsHub. Further information on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Herts is available on our website. You can contact the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Office by email at WDI@herts.ac.uk You can also keep in touch and up to date on our work and events by following us on social media. Instagram @uhedioffice Twitter @uhequality

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English language support for researchers The University recognises the need to help researchers, whose first language is not English, to improve their writing, reading and speaking skills. If you have any queries around writing and academic skills, please contact the Herts Academic Skills team via HAS@herts.ac.uk.

Careers and Employment Careers and Employment work with colleagues to help students and alumni develop the employability skills they need to achieve their career aspirations. You can find more information on Careers and Employment on the main University website, the Careers and Employment website, and Handshake. Sources of information when considering career choices: • Prospects. https://www.prospects.ac.uk – vacancy details, occupational information, working abroad and lots more • Vitae. https://www.vitae.ac.uk portal – essential careers information for research students and contract researchers • www.jobs.ac.uk – leading site for academic and research vacancies

Support from the Library and Computing Services (LCS) Our Academic Resources team work in partnership with academic departments to ensure relevant resources; services and support are available for staff and students. We are responsible for managing the online and physical library collections, working with students and staff to ensure you make the best use of our services whilst you are here. Contact details for the team can be found on Ask Herts (https://ask.herts.ac.uk/your-information-manager). It is in the interest of each individual researcher to familiarise themselves with the wealth of information resources, library collections and services that are available to you. Please do get in contact with the team to discuss your specific requirements, to arrange an appointment, and for general research support questions relating to information, resources and services.

University of Hertfordshire Hatfield, AL10 9AB +44 (0)1707 284800 herts.ac.uk

RF11605_RDP-HANDBOOK_0822

Researcher Development Programme Handbook 2023-24

Articles inside

Researcher Development Framework

Welcome