Career Architect

The extensive programme combines coaching, independent learning, peer support and informal small-group workshops with ‘industry savvy’ information and exercises, to help researchers in all disciplines who are considering a range of suitable career options. Over 200 researchers have successfully completed this programme so far, with more than 70% finding professional research-level opportunities in industry, in non-for-profit and public sector organisations, start-ups or by creating their own portfolio careers and new ventures.

Throughout the programme you will:

• identify your strengths, values, transferable skills and expertise
• heighten your awareness of appropriate career options
• understand what employers are looking for and how to market yourself to them
• form a strong peer support group with other participants
• feel motivated, focused and supported throughout your transition.

Career Architect is designed for postdoctoral staff and PGRs with 6-18 months left of their current contract/degree, who are considering their next career steps.

Whether you're interested in academia or thinking about another industry entirely, Career Architect is for you!

The next cohort of Career Architect will run in-person from September 2025 to March 2026:

• Session 1: 10 September (10am-3pm)
• Session 2: 24 September (1:30-4pm)
• Session 3: 8 October (1:30-4pm)
• Session 4: 22 October (1:30-4pm)
• Session 5: 5 November (1:30-4pm)
• Session 6: 19 November (1:30-4pm)
• Session 7: 3 December (1:30-4pm)
• [Christmas break]
• Session 8: 14 January (1:30-4pm)
• Session 9: 28 January (1:30-4pm)
• Session 10: 11 February (1:30-4pm)
• Session 11: 25 February (1:30-4pm)
• Session 12: 11 March (9:30am-5pm)

All sessions take place on-campus.

Applications are now open. Places are limited and there is a selection process to ensure that those taking part are those likely to gain the most.

We would encourage you to attend our information session before applying:

Once you're ready to apply, fill out our application form. The deadline for applications is Tuesday, 1st July.

We'll be running an information session on 21st May, from 12-1pm. Register to attend if you'd like to know more about the programme.

You can also find out more about Career Architect in our Sway guide.

Please note: the Programme is aimed at researchers who are looking to move on from academic research and teaching, so you cannot apply if you are currently in the process of or planning to apply for a fellowship or academic post.  If Career Architect isn't right for you, have a look at our Career Accelerator programme instead.