Researcher-Led Events provides funding for postgraduate research students across the University to organise their own research events such as conferences and symposia.
This contributes to building research culture within Schools and Departments while providing an opportunity for students themselves to develop invaluable skills in organising the events.
I learned a lot from organising this conference, and it has been a highly educational experience. To echo the hopes of participants, this was the inaugural Cambridge Interdisciplinary Forum for Postgraduate Research, but we hope certainly not the last.
In 2023-24, we were able to offer £7,500 in total, with a maximum of £500 per event: we received 42 applications and unfortunately were unable to contribute to all of these great proposals and initiatives. In total 24 events received funding from the scheme, distributed across 20 different departments.
The conference received positive feedback in conversations throughout the day and after the event. Particular highlights were being able to hear research from peers and colleagues - especially as many felt we created a constructive and positive context in which to engage with each others' work.
Applications to the scheme are open in Michaelmas Term; look out for a notice in the Researcher Development newsletter which will include details of how to apply.
(Applications for 2024-25 are now closed)