How will the Research Councils use the RDS in terms of their training requirements for postgraduate researchers?

Please note: the Researcher Development Statement is an evolution of the JSS, highlighting the range of knowledge, skills, behaviours and personal qualities which the Councils expect researchers to develop over the course of their training. A much more detailed Framework is being developed, which is intended as a tool for researchers and HEIs to assist in planning, promoting and supporting the personal, professional and career development of researchers in higher education.

The RDS is an evolution of the 2001 Joint Statement of the UK Research Councils' Training Requirements for Research Students (JSS). It identifies the broad range of knowledge, skills, behaviours and personal qualities which are required to be an effective researcher and employee in a world driven by knowledge production and innovation. These skills may be present on commencement of a research degree, explicitly taught, or developed during the course of the research.

The Research Councils made clear in their Statement of Expectations regarding researcher development that they expect research organisations to fully embed researcher development into the normal processes in the research and training environment. Research organisations will wish to take into account the Researcher development statement when reviewing their range of formal and informal support and provision for researchers.

The Research Councils are currently individually and collectively exploring how the RDS will be practically referenced within their training and development guidance for doctoral training provision.