This section is currently being developed.
researchers for research staff and postgraduate researchers
Communities of researchers seek to influence the research experience, have their voices heard on research issues, expand their networks, and develop new skills
These communities come in a variety of forms and function at every imaginable scale. In many instances, local (physical) or small (virtual) communities provide valuable representation, support, and resources to research staff. Thus, it's beneficial for research staff to be aware of the communities of researchers that are available.
Why establish or join a research staff association?
It is beneficial for research staff to form associations. The purpose of these associations may be to represent the interests of research staff in interactions with institutional management; to support colleagues by facilitating access to resources on career development, equality and diversity, employment rights, and related topics; or to engage colleagues through networking opportunities.
A database of communities of researchers
The UKRSA and Vitae have collaborated to create a database of researcher communities. Please contact tennie.videler@vitae.ac.uk or ukrsavitae@gmail.com if you know of any communities that should be added to this database, or if any details need to be corrected.
- The UKRSA has established an online presence at several popular social networking sites in order to engage research staff in online forums.
- In 2010 there were over 50 local research staff associations at institutions throughout the UK. Do you want to contribute to the support of your colleagues while enhancing your own personal and professional development? Join your local research staff association, or if none exists then establish one.
- Communities of researchers everywhere have begun to adopt Web 2.0 technologies in order to interact online. All known online research communities are listed.
- In lieu of an association, many UK research institutions have established committees that incorporate members of research staff in order to provide research staff representation and a collective voice for the community.
- Several international research communities exist, either as counterparts of the UKRSA or international collaborations based on discipline.
- In response to the research concordat, most research institutions have created offices devoted to supporting research staff. These offices typically establish research staff support websites.
