The future of researcher development as a profession
Over the past few years, we have been supporting the emergence of the profession of researcher development, through the development of a Careers Framework for Researcher Developers (CFRD), a series of ‘Connections’ CPD events, and more recently by piloting a professional recognition scheme for researcher developers.
All staff supporting the development of researchers should be able to access appropriate development opportunities, and reward and recognition for this. Not just ‘practising what we preach’, this will also ensure that researcher development provision continues to build on good practice by creating a network of peers to share learning, provide mentorship and identify common challenges.
CPD and professional recognition
The Vitae Careers Framework for Researcher Developers (CFRD) supports the aspirations of all who work in researcher development.
CFRD can be used to identify and assess the relevant knowledge, skills and expertise that you bring with you from previous roles, those that you need to develop now and those you wish to develop in the future.
In an ongoing pilot recognition using CFRD, the first group of 19 researcher developers from a range of institutions around the world have started the recognition process. The outcomes and next steps for the pilot were shared at the 2019 Vitae conference.
Connections: Getting to Grips
Our well-loved new starters event, Connections: Getting to Grips, for colleagues who have recently taken on responsibility for supporting researchers in their professional development, was held in May 2020 as an entirely online event. It incorporated a panel session from members of the CPD members Working Group and additional experts from within the Vitae network.
A sister event is planned for October 2020. It is hoped that this will be held in person, dependent on current government advice in relation to Covid-19. For more information, register interest here.
If you’re new to the community, join us to make some new connections and learn from experienced professionals.
Vitae Working Group on continuous professional development for researcher developers
A workshop was held by the Vitae member Working Group on CPD at the Vitae conference in September, where they provided an overview of the progress so far and led an activity to feed into where they will go next.
Joining a working group is a great way to connect with like-minded colleagues internationally, share practice and engage deeply with a topic of interest. Find out more about Vitae Working Groups.
