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What’s Next? Career Exploration for Established Researchers

If you’re established in your research career, you may be wondering what will challenge and inspire you next. Join this peer-to-peer programme to explore ways to maximise opportunities and overcome obstacles in the next stage of your academic career.

This new programme is part of the University’s response to the N8 Universities’ commitment for the career development of established researchers, supported by Professor Nick Plant, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation

Programme aims and outcomes

This programme provides space to reflect on your research career so far and develop an action plan for the next stage. It will help you:

  • Build a community: Connect with established research colleagues across the University who are at a similar career stage.
  • Identify motivations and values: Clarify your personal motivations and values for your research career.
  • Evaluate research career options: Assess and choose from suitable career options and opportunities.
  • Assess development needs: Determine the skills, behaviours and experience you need to achieve your career goals.
  • Formulate a career plan: Develop a career development plan to pursue opportunities within the University and externally.

Who is this programme for?

This programme is designed for mid-career researchers who have established an independent research reputation but have not yet achieved the status of Professor. It is particularly suited for those at Senior Lecturer and Associate Professor career stages, though it is not limited to these roles and others may find it valuable.

Programme details and dates:

The programme is delivered over four bi-weekly sessions. Attendance at all four sessions is required to ensure an effective experience for you and your peers.

  • Session 1 - Monday 19 May 2025, 1-4pm (On campus)
    • Establish group relationships, trust and engagement, agree on rules of engagement, and lay the groundwork for career discussions.
  • Session 2 - Monday 2 June 2025, 2-4pm (On campus)
    • Explore your values and take stock of your research career.
  • Session 3 - Monday 16 June 2025, 2-4pm (On campus)
    • Examine your career options, opportunities, and identify your development needs.
  • Session 4 - Monday 30 June 2025, 2-4pm (On campus)
    • Develop a personalised career plan, identify next steps, and find suitable support programmes at Leeds and beyond.
  • Follow-up session (optional and online) Wednesday 10 September 10-11am 

How to apply

The spring 2025 dates are now full. To register your interest in future dates of the programme, please complete the registration of interest form.

Register your interest

Meet your facilitators

Dr Jim Baxter

Dr Jim Baxter is an Academic Development Consultant in the Researcher Development and Culture Team in Organisational Development and Professional Learning (OD&PL) leading on professional development for research leadership. He focuses on developing academic practice through designing, delivering, assessing, and evaluating courses, workshops, and facilitated events. Jim has two decades of experience in supporting researchers in developing their skills in winning research funding, managing research projects and leading research teams and consortium. Before his current role Jim was a lecturer in Mechanical Engineering.

Dr Ged Hall

Dr Ged Hall is the Researcher Development and Culture Team Leader in Organisational Development and Professional Learning (OD&PL). He specialises in developing and delivering programs that enhance research impact and culture. Since 2011, Ged has supported academics across all disciplines to maximise the impact of their research. His work includes designing the University's Engaged for Impact Strategy and promoting responsible use of metrics in research assessment. He has Directed national learning and teaching projects and a range of student services. Before joining higher education, Ged worked as a consultant in the oil, gas, and utility sectors.

Ruth Winden

Ruth Winden is the career development lead in the Researcher Development and Culture Team in Organisational Development and Professional Learning (OD&PL). She works across all career stages within her researcher community, from senior academics to postdocs, PGRs and professional services colleagues. She is an expert in group-based career coaching and a Fellow of the Career Development Institute. Ruth brings a holistic and person-centred approach to her work, based on three decades of career consulting assignments across HE, most industry sectors and with large organisations like the NIHR and the UN.

More information

If you have any questions or would like to check your eligibility to apply for this programme, please contact Jim Baxter, Ged Hall or Ruth Winden at researcherdevelopment@leeds.ac.uk

To find out more about what we offer, please explore our Researcher Development and Culture website.