What is the Researcher Development Framework?

The Researcher Development Framework articulates the knowledge, behaviours and attributes of successful researchers and encourages them to aspire to excellence through achieving higher levels of development.

The framework is a comprehensive new approach to enhancing the careers of researchers. It was developed by and for researchers, in consultation with academic and non-academic employers.

Who is it for?

Primarily, the framework is designed for:

• researchers within higher education to evaluate and plan their own personal, professional and career development
• managers/supervisors of researchers in their role supporting the development of researchers
• trainers, developers, human resources specialists and careers advisors in the planning and provision of support for researchers' development
• institutions in making decisions about their strategic approach to development of researchers.

The framework will also be of use for:

• funders of researchers and other stakeholders with an interest in the development of researchers
• non-higher education employers in identifying the benefits of employing researchers
• people interested in training as a researcher or researchers looking to move into higher education from other sectors.

What is the purpose of the Researcher Development Framework?

The Researcher Development Framework (RDF) was developed in response to a range of recommendations to create a UK development framework for postgraduate researchers and research staff in higher education institutions.