Research Student Programme - Newcastle University€¦ · 05.10.16 ePortfolio and Personal Development Planning 12:00 – 13:00 DENE Cluster 08 05.10.16 ePortfolio and Personal Development

Research Student Development Programme2016-2017Faculty of Medical Sciences

32 Research Student Development Programme 2016 - 2017Newcastle University Faculty of Medical Sciences

Event Diary

Mandatory for research students at the appropriate stage Essential for students NEW to Newcastle University (Newcastle Masters students need not attend)

Important for MRes Students Strongly recommended for all research students

NB. Sessions with identical names are repeat sessions

Date Title Time Venue Pg

29.09.16 Introduction to Critical Appraisal 10:00 – 11:00 Dental Lecture Theatre C 09

03.10.16 Introduction to Library Facilities 12:00 – 12:30 Walton Library 08

03.10.16 Welcome to Newcastle University 13:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 07

03.10.16 Research Student Reception 16:00 – 18:00 David Shaw Lecture Theatre 06

04.10.16 Managing your PhD or MPhil – for students NEW to Newcastle 10:00 – 12:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 07

04.10.16 Introduction to Statistical Considerations in Experimental Research 12:00 – 14:00 Med L2.8 11

04.10.16 Research Ethics - Theory 15:00 – 16:30 FMS Graduate Training Suite 09

04.10.16 Research Ethics - Application 16:30 – 17:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 09

05.10.16 Managing your MD 10:00 – 12:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 07

05.10.16 ePortfolio and Personal Development Planning 12:00 – 13:00 DENE Cluster 08


05.10.16 Translational Tales: Getting Investment 15:00 – 16:00 Ridley Building 1 2.04 25

05.10.16 EndNote 16:00 – 17:00 POOL Cluster 14

06.10.16 Non Medline Library Databases 09:00 – 11:00 GLEN Cluster 15

06.10.16 How to Maximise your Research Impact 13:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 33

07.10.16 EndNote 09:00 – 10:00 GLEN Cluster 14

07.10.16 Endnote 09:00 - 10:00 GLEN Cluster 14

07.10.16 Managing your PhD – for former Newcastle Masters’ students 10:00 – 11:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 07

07.10.16 Managing your PhD – for Applied Health Research Students 11:00 – 13:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 08


07.10.16 Health and Safety Requirements for Research Students 13:00 – 15:00 Dental Lecture Theatre F 10

11.10.16 Managing your PhD or MPhil – for part-time students & staff 15:00 – 12:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 08

11.10.16 Teaching Opportunities for Research Students 12:00 – 13:00 Dental Lecture Theatre F 22


12.10.16 Robust Search Methodologies for Literature Review 10:00 – 11:30 GLEN Cluster 15


12.10.16 Translational Tales: Alcyomics Ltd 14:00 – 15:00 Ridley Building 1, 2.04 26


12.10.16 Chemical Safety 15:00 – 17:00 Dental Lecture Theatre F 10

12.10.16 Insights from Industry: Newgene 15:30 – 16:30 Ridley Building 1, 2.04 25


14.10.16 Biological & GM Safety 14:00 – 17:00 Dental Lecture Theatre c 10



18.10.16 Recording your Research (Lab books, Research diaries etc.) 15:00 – 16:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 09

19.10.16 Document Management – Content and Layout 10:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster 14

19.10.16 Translational Tales: Hexis Lab 14:00 – 15:00 Ridley Building 1, 2.04 26

19.10.16 Chemical Safety 14:00 – 16:00 Dental Lecture Theatre E 10

19.10.16 Translational Tales: Hystocyte Laboratories Ltd 15:30 – 16:30 Ridley Building 1, 2.04 26

20.10.16 Document Management – Images and Tables 10:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster 14

20.10.16 Making an Impact in the Media 14:00 – 16:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 20

21.10.16 Biological & GM Safety 14:00 - 17:00 Dental Lecture Theatre D 10


24.10.16 Biological & GM Safety 14:00 – 17:00 Baddiley-Clark Seminar Rm 10

25.10.16 Succeeding at Interview 10:00 – 12:00 HASS Training Suite (Daysh) 32

26.10.16 Translational Tales: Demuris 14:00 – 15:00 Ridley Building 1, 2.04 26

26.10.16 Translational Tales: Biofilms 15:30 – 16:30 Ridley Building 1, 2.04 27

27.10.16 Chemical Safety 15:00 – 17:00 Dental Lecture Theatre D 10


02.11.16 Public Speaking (NEPG support) 10:00 – 12:30 FMS Graduate Training Suite 24


02.11.16 Insights from Industry: Intellectual Property Rights 14:00 – 15:00 Ridley Building 1, 2.04 27

02.11.16 Insights from Industry: Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) 15:30 - 17:00 Ridley Building 1, 2.04 27


04.11.16 Medline 10:00 – 11:30 GLEN Cluster 15

04.11.16 Career Pathways in Clinical Research 10:00 – 12:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 31

07.11.16 Introduction to social Media for Researchers – What it can do for you 12:00 – 13:00 GLEN Cluster 20


08.11.16 Alerting Services 09:00 – 10:00 GLEN Cluster 16


08.11.16 Clinical Research with Older People (NIHR) 12:00 – 15:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 20

09.11.16 Scientific Facilities Showcase 09:00 – 11:00 Medical School 28

09.11.16 Chairing at a Scientific Meeting (NEPG Support) 14:00 – 15:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 24


10.11.16 Academic Integrity and Plagiarism 11:00 – 12:30 FMS Graduate Training Suite 10

15.11.16 Research IT Support and Overview of Statistical Packages 14:00 – 16:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 11

16.11.16 Insights from Industry: Fujifilm Diosynth Biotech (formally Avecia) 15:00 – 17:00 Ridley Building 1, 2.04 27

18.11.16 Research Governance (NIHR) 15:00 – 16:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 10

18.11.16 SPSS for Beginners 09:00 – 16:30 DENE Cluster 12

21.11.16 SET for Britain – Application Support 15:00 – 17:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 23


23.11.16 Basic Statistics (ISRU) 10:00 – 13:00 MED L2.6 11

24.11.16 North East Postgraduate Conference (NEPG) 08:30 – 17:00 Newcastle Civic Centre 24 25.11.16

28.11.16 Data Handling and Spreadsheet Skills 10:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster 12

01.12.16 SPSS for Beginners 09:00 – 16:30 LINN Cluster 12

06.12.16 MatLab 10:00 – 16:00 LINN Cluster 12 07.12.16

07.12.16 Insights from Industry: Project Management 15:00 – 17:00 Ridley Building 1, 2.04 27

08.12.16 Convincing CV’s and Covering Letters 10:00 – 12:00 G21/22 Devonshire 31

08.12.16 Advanced Document Management- Using Word and EndNote 10:00 – 13:00 GLEN Cluster 14




12.12.16 Writing Examination Essays 12:00 – 13:00 Dental Lecture Theatre C 30

13.12.16 Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) 09:30 – 12:30 Kings Gate 1.26 32

14.12.16 Conference Organisers Meeting 13:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 34

15.12.16 Teaching and Supervising Project Students 12:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 22

11.01.17 Systematic Review 11:00 – 13:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 16

12.01.17 Academic Writing 10:00 – 12:00 Med L2.4 29

12.01.17 Managing Long Documents 13:00 – 17:00 DENE cluster 15

13.01.17 Chemical Safety 10:00 – 12:00 Baddiley-Clark Seminar Rm 10

16.01.17 Welcome to Newcastle University 10:00 – 11:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 7

17.01.17 Managing your PhD, MD or MPhil 10:00 – 12:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 8


18.01.17 Convincing CV’s and Covering Letters 10:00 – 12:00 MED L2.6 31

18.01.17 Getting ‘that’ Postdoc 13:00 – 14:00 Ridley Building 2, 1.58 31

18.01.17 Biological & GM Safety 14:00 – 17:00 Dental Lecture Theatre E 10

19.01.17 Recording your Research (Lab books, Research diaries etc.) 15:00 – 16:00 Ridley Building 2, 1.58 09

23.01.17 Teaching and Supervising Project Students 12:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 22

24.01.17 Basic Statistics (ISRU) 10:00 – 13:00 MED L2.2 11

26.01.17 Academic Integrity and Plagiarism 11:00 – 12:30 Ridley Building 2, 1.58 10


30.01.17 Alerting Services 15:00 – 16:00 GLEN Cluster 16


31.01.17 PhD Interview Session 11:00 – 12:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 30

OC

TO

BE

R

NO

VE

MB

ER

DE

CE

MB

ER

JAN

UA

RY



01.02.17 Health and Safety Requirements for Research Students 13:00 – 15:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 10

08.02.17 Chemical Safety 14:00 – 16:00 Dental Lecture Theatre E 10

09.02.17 Biological & GM Safety 09:00 – 12:00 Med L2.8 10

10.02.17 Thesis Writing (mandatory for final year students) 13:00 – 15:00 Dental Lecture Theatre D 29




23.02.17 {React} Science Magazine and Public Engagement 09:00 – 17:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 21

27.02.17 Your Personal Development Plan (PDP) – Preparing for the Progress 12:00 – 13:00 Dental Lecture Theatre D 17 Review Panel (Mandatory for PhD, MD and MPhil)

28.02.17 Succeeding at Interview 10:00 – 12:00 Herschel Learning Lab 16

28.02.17 Systematic Review 11:00 – 13:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 32

01.03.17 Data Handling and Spreadsheet Skills 10:00 – 12:00 POOL Cluster 12

02.03.17 Writing your First Year Report 13:00 – 14:00 Dental Lecture Theatre D 17

06.03.17 Second Year Annual Review: Your Research Outputs 13:00 – 14:00 Baddiley-Clark Seminar Rm 18

07.03.17 Convincing CV’s and Covering Letters 10:00 – 12:00 Kings Gate 1.20 31

08.03.17 Writing a Literature Review 14:00 – 15:30 Dental Lecture Theatre E 17

10.03.17 Introduction to IT Databases 09:00 – 13:00 DENE Cluster 13

13.03.17 Health Sciences Research students - Preparing for your First Year 12:00 – 13:00 Ridley Building 2 1.58 17 Review (Mandatory for PhD, MD and MPhil in IH&S)

14.03.17 Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) 09:30 – 12:30 Kings Gate 1.26 32

14.03.17 Trial Management - Clinical Trials Unit (NIHR) 12:30 – 14:00 Conference Rm 1st Floor CAV 28

15.03.17 Recognising & Building Your Resilience to the Rigours of Research 14:00 – 16:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 33

16.03.17 Managing Long Documents 13:00 – 17:00 GLEN Cluster 15

28.03.17 Practicalities of Cellular Analysis Conference 09:00 – 17:00 David Shaw LT 28

04.04.17 Making a Successful Career Move 14:00 – 16:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 31

06.04.17 NVivo Training 10:00 – 15:00 LINN Cluster 16

11.04.17 Succeeding at Interview 10:00 – 12:00 Med L2.2 / L2.3 32

19.04.17 Applying for Fellowships 11:00 – 13:00 Baddiley-Clark Seminar Room 32

20.04.17 NIHR Funding for Early Career Researchers 12:00 – 14:00 Great Gable, 2nd Floor, CAV 32

21.04.17 Getting Started with the SAS System 09:00 – 16:30 DENE Cluster 13

25.04.17 An Introduction to Scientific Computation (Python) 10:00 – 13:00 DENE Cluster 13

27.04.17 The Viva and Beyond 12:00 – 13:00 Dental Lecture Theatre D 29

27.04.17 Beyond the Viva – Practical Advice 13:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 33

03.05.17 Chairing a Session (ICM) 12:00 – 13:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 24

04.05.17 Biotechnology & Environment YES Information Session 13:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 25

05.05.17 SPSS for Beginners 09:00 – 16:30 DENE Cluster 12

09.05.17 Convincing CV’s and Covering Letters 10:00 – 12:00 Daysh Building 31

10.05.17 Induction Catch Up (for Phd, MD or MPhil Students) 15:00 – 17:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 18

15.05.17 Communication and Presentation Skills 14:00 – 15:00 Dental Lecture Theatre D 23

16.05.17 Scientific Writing 13:00 – 14:00 Dental Lecture Theatre E 29

17.05.17 Zotero, Mendelay, Twitter etc. Tools for the 21st Century Researcher 13:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 28

18.05.17 Advanced SPSS 09:00 – 16:30 LINN Cluster 12

23.05.17 Succeeding at Interview 10:00 – 12:00 Kings Gate 1.26 32

24.05.17 Support for Researchers Working with Public and Patient Groups 10:00 – 12:00 Baddiley-Clark Seminar Room 19

25.05.17 Presentation Skills using PowerPoint 10:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster 23

26.05.17 Writing for Publication & the Publication Process 10:00 – 11:00 Dental Lecture Theatre F 30

05.06.17 Document Management – Content and Layout 10:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster 14

06.06.17 What Makes a Good Poster? 10:00 – 12:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 23

06.06.17 What Makes a Good Poster? 12:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite 23

08.06.17 Document Management – Images and Tables 10:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster 14

08.06.17 Dissertation Writing Workshop for MRes Students 12:00 – 13:30 David Shaw LT 30

09.06.17 Considering the Effects of Research Success 14:00 – 16:00 Ridley Building 2 1.58 33

13.06.17 Myer Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) 09:30 – 12:30 Kings Gate 1.26 32

13.06.17 Poster Presentations – Practical Advice 14:00 – 16:00 DENE Cluster 24

14.06.17 Qualitative Interviewing in Health Research: from design to publication 09:00 – 12:30 The Core 16 15.06.17

20.06.17 Advanced Document Management- Using Word and EndNote 13:00 – 16:00 GLEN Cluster 14


22.06.17 Managing Long Documents 13:00 – 17:00 GLEN Cluster 15

03.07.17 Poster Presentations – Practical Advice (MRes Only) 10:00 – 12:00 POOL Cluster 30

05.07.17 Applied Statistics for ICM Research Students 15:00 – 16:00 DENE Cluster 13 12.07.17 19.07.17 26.07.17

04.07.17 Poster Presentations – Practical Advice (MRes Only) 10:00 – 12:00 POOL Cluster 30

12.07.17 Academic Writing – Accessible Abstracts (NEPG Support) 11:00 – 12:30 FMS Graduate Training Suite 25

MA

RC

HFE

BR

UA

RY

AP

RIL

MA

YJU

NE

Introduction The Graduate School has a continued commitment to providing postgraduate researchers with access to a comprehensive range of professional development opportunities. The Research Student Development Programme supports and complements your research as well as providing activities that will build generic skills and confidence in your own abilities. We endeavour to take a holistic approach to training and development, so the scheduled events are only a part of how we envisage researchers can develop their skills and gain experience. Students are required to make an on-going assessment of their own development and training needs through personal development planning (PDP) in the ePortfolio system. The development opportunities advertised have been mapped against the Vitae Researcher Development Framework (RDF). This should help you to identify how best to meet your training and development needs.

Within the programme there are a small number of mandatory sessions, highlighted on the event diary. Recognising that backgrounds vary, the discretion of the project supervisors can guide students to what is essential for them. All students should attend the most relevant Managing your PhD/MD/MPhil session along with the annual sessions preparing them for progression.

Our aim is to keep the programme evolving throughout the year this booklet is therefore only a guide to the year’s activities, Development sessions are provided through the Graduate School website and booking is required. To book go to: http://www.ncl.ac.uk/fms/postgrad/skills

From this point you can access Researcher Development Opportunities offered from across the entire University.

Once you have signed into the booking system you will be taken to the Faculty of Medical Science Research Student Development programme, where you can book any of the sessions advertised. Use of the booking system also means a record of your training will be automatically made in your ePortfolio.

Electronic evaluation forms are sent following each session. The forms mirror the Vitae RDF and ePorftolio and are pre-populated to aid you in considering whether the session provided the guidance or development you required.

The forms also include an overall rating and a comments box. We use this information to continually improve what is on offer so please take the opportunity to tell us what worked well and what could be improved. Evaluation data is collected anonymously but we are always happy to hear from you directly. The contact for the Development Programme is Dr Richy Hetherington ([email protected])

Where possible online materials that supplement or allow you to catch up sessions you could not attend are available at the Graduate School Website http://www.ncl.ac.uk/fms/

Research Seminars

You should attend a minimum of 10 research seminars per year. A list of research seminars can be found on the Graduate School Events Calendar page.

•http://www.ncl.ac.uk/fms/postgrad/calendar

Each research institute and seminar group will also have their timetable; see:

•http://www.ncl.ac.uk/camb/events/•http://www.ncl.ac.uk/ihs/news/seminars•http://www.ncl.ac.uk/ion/events/•http://www.ncl.ac.uk/dental/about/events•http://www.ncl.ac.uk/igm/about/seminars•http://www.ncl.ac.uk/nicr/news/seminars•http://www.ncl.ac.uk/aging/events/

ProfessionalismPlease attend punctually to avoid disruption. If you fail to attend a session and do not cancel your booking please email [email protected] to explain the circumstances. If no email is received your supervisor may be contacted. Research students must maintain an attendance record of the sessions booked. Any students who have not maintained this will be ineligible for a faculty travel grant. You will be notified if your attendance is below 70%.

Taught Programme ModulesWith agreement of the Module Leader and Degree Programme Director, we are very happy for research students to attend any lecture courses delivered within the faculty. Attendance would be on a non-credit bearing basis and examinations would not be included. Practical classes are only available where there is a significant benefit for the student’s research.

JULY


Induction

Research students are individuals, with a variety of experiences and commitments. The Graduate School’s sessions are designed to help make your induction meaningful and helpful. All students should attend a ‘Managing your…’ session - try to join the one most applicable to you; if you cannot attend that session choose another.

Welcome to Newcastle University

The Dean of Postgraduate Studies, Professor John Kirby welcomes all new PhD, MD and MPhil students to the city, Newcastle University and to the Faculty of Medical Sciences.

“Engaging, motivational. Felt I was valued by the University” “There was a lovely sense that my PhD was as important to the University as it is to me”

Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C3 D1

Mon 03 October 2016 13:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Mon 16 January 2017 10:00 – 11:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Managing your PhD or MPhil for new students - An essential guide new postgraduates at Newcastle University

This session will provide all the essential information students need when starting their PhD or MPhil. The session will be led by Dr Alison Tyson-Capper, the Faculty Postgraduate Tutor.

97% of respondents said the session improved their skills or awareness in research management (C2)

“Answered multiple queries and was very reassuring to a slightly overwhelmed PhD student!”

Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 D1 D2 D3

Tue 04 October 2016 10:00 – 12:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Tue 17 January 2017 10:00 – 12:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Managing your PhD - An essential guide for students who have completed a Masters in the faculty of Medical Sciences

Dr Jeremy Brown will lead this interactive session that will allow students moving from masters to PhD to ask any questions and discuss any issues they may have.


Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 D1 D2 D3

Fri 07 October 2016 10:00 – 11:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Managing your MD - An essential guide for clinical research students

There can be some quite specific demands in balancing commitments for MD students. This session will provide advice for MD students but may also be useful for PhD students balancing clinical commitments with their studies.


Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 D1 D2 D3

Wed 05 October 2016 10.00 – 12.00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

The following is a non-exhaustive list of taught modulesMedical Genetics; Neuropharmacology; Pharmacogenetics; Biochemistry; Carcinogenesis and Anticancer Drugs; Cell Biology; Clinical Pharmacology; Clinical Skills; Cytogenetics and Human Evolution; Experimental Design and the Process of Research; Genetics; Human Anatomy; Immune Recognition; Pharmacology; Physiology; RNA, Genetic Disease & Development; Systems Pharmacology; The Molecular Basis of Cancer; The Nervous and Immune Systems; Toxicology; Xenobiotic Metabolism.

To search the complete list of taught programme modules go to: http://www.ncl.ac.uk/module-catalogue

If you do wish to attend a taught module you should contact the Module Leader and Degree Programme Director. If requesting a place ask well in advance of the module starting, and be prepared to be notified of acceptance of a place at short notice.

Other Faculty Graduate SchoolsThe Faculty of Medical Sciences attempts to deliver a Development Programme that is most suitable for postgraduates in Medical Sciences. However, we recognise that our researchers work in a wide variety of fields and may well have aspirations outside of their current field of study. The Graduate Schools of the University’s other two faculties, Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) and Science, Agriculture and Engineering (SAgE) also offer training and development programmes. Postgraduate students are free to attend any of the sessions that are delivered by any faculty, subject to availability and with priority going to the students of that faculty; Details of the HaSS and SAgE programmes can be found at

•http://www.ncl.ac.uk/hss/postgrad/training/•http://www.ncl.ac.uk/sage/study/postgrad/training/

Open Access CentreTo improve your English or learn a foreign language register with the Open Access Centre and you will have access to materials for over 50 different language and multimedia resources to aid English language learning. The Centre also has computers, satellite TV, audio equipment and video. The Open Access Centre is located on level 2 of the Old Library Building. For more information go to: http://www.ncl.ac.uk/langcen/

Staff Development Unit The Staff Development Unit runs a variety of training sessions. Research students who are members of staff are encouraged to take advantage of events on offer. Research students who are not members of staff are not able to attend SDU workshops. If there is something which the SDU offer that you are interested in please contact Dr Richy Hetherington ([email protected]) to see if any equivalent courses are available for research students. See: http://www.ncl.ac.uk/staffdev

University English Language Assessment (UELA)All new students whose native language is not English will be provided with a free University English Language Assessment (UELA), unless they are specifically exempted by INTO Centre staff. The assessment is not something to worry about, just a way for the university to work out the sort of help which is most appropriate for you. The results will determine who is in most need of the in-sessional English for academic purposes classes.

The UELA Schedule can be found at: http://www.ncl.ac.uk/students/insessional/uela/

English Courses for Students in the Faculty of Medical Sciences English for PhD/MD/MPhil Students in Medical Sciences (INU9074) English for MRes students in Medical Sciences (INU6114)

These courses are for PhD/MD/MPhil students in the Faculty of Medical Sciences only, and will help you to write research papers and develop written academic English. You will look at introductions, literature reviews, methods, results, discussion and oral presentations from your area of research. These classes include homework tasks which you may complete and send to the teacher by e-mail in order to receive individual feedback. Please note that you do not need to register in person for this class. This class will be registered in the same way as the ESAP classes.

Research Student ReceptionAll research students are invited to attend the David Shaw Lecture Theatre for a presentation by one of the faculty’s leading researchers, discussing their career in research. This will be followed by a drinks reception in first floor foyer.

The Graduate Training Suite The former Graduate School Common Room (Cookson Building MG. 207) has now been redesigned to provide a flexible training space for research students. The suite of rooms comprises three small study rooms that will be used for one to one sessions but can also be booked out by students for private study. The training room has seven fixed PCs and a printer. There are moveable chairs and tables along with display equipment. There is also a lounge area with a hot water boiler. When not in use for training sessions (indicated on a noticeboard in the lounge area) all postgraduates are welcome to use these facilities. If you wish to book any of the rooms for an event please contact: [email protected]


Introduction to Critical Appraisal

Prof Bob Lightowlers will refer to his own experience to help make you aware of non-reproducible results, poor experimental design, incorrect analysis, conflict of interests and even outright fraud; all factors which have led to papers being retracted and are still lurking within the literature.

N.B. This presentation is provided for MRes students. PhD students who have completed the MRes need not attend.

“A wonderful approach”

Skills:

A1 A2 C1

Tue 29 Sept 2016 10:00 – 11:00 DENT LTC

Research Ethics: Theory

In this session Dr Jan Deckers presents a theoretical backdrop for the consideration of ethics in bioscience research. There will be an opportunity to discuss the concept of bioethics and what the implications are for the individual, society and for professionals working in bioscience, medicine and health sciences.

“Very thought provoking…helped better explore and analyse the ethics involved in biosciences”

“The case studies used…have truly enhanced my understanding of the principles”

Skills:

A3 B1 C1 D1 D3


Wed 12 October 2016 13:00 – 14:30 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Tue 14 February 2017 13:00 – 14:30 FMS Graduate Training Suite

University Research Ethics: Application

This session will provide practical advice on the procedures required for receiving ethical approval for a research study. Research students requiring ethical approval should attend. Those with approval arranged are advised to attend to improve their understanding of these requirements.

“Easily understandable and applicable to own practice”

Skills:

A3 B1 C1 D1 D3


Wed 12 October 2016 14:30 – 15:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite


Recording your Research (Lab books, Research diaries etc.)

In this session Dr Richy Hetherington, Dr Richard Oliver and Dr Simon Cockell will discuss three aspects of recording research methods and dates: The conventional lab book, recording in a clinical setting and the recording of electronic data. The interplay between these methods is considered.

90% said the session improved their skills or awareness in Research Management (C2)

“The session explained a lot about the different types of data and was really informative”

“Provided useful information on how to organise research findings”

Skills:

A1 A2 A3 B2 C1 C2 D1


Thu 19 January 2017 15:00 – 16:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Managing your PhD for Applied Health Research students

Dr Lindsay Pennington will lead this interactive session focusing on students working in applied health research. The session is primarily aimed at students who have completed a Newcastle master’s degree in this area but may also be applicable to new starters working in this field. Students based in the Institute of Health and Society are encouraged to attend.

This session is new to the development programme. Your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 D1 D2 D3

Fri 07 October 2016 11:00 – 13:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

ePortfolio and Personal Development Planning

Engaging with your ePortfolio is an essential element of your research degree. Mr Simon Cotterill and Dr Richy Hetherington provide the rationale for its importance and give practical guidance get started.

96% said the session improved their skills or awareness in personal qualities (B1)

“Good overview of ePortfolio for beginners” “Able to now utilise resources within ePortfolio more confidently”

Skills:

A3 B1 B2 B3 C2 D1 D3

Wed 05 October 2016 12:00 – 13:00 DENE Cluster


Tue 17 January 2017 14:00 – 15:00 DENE Cluster

Managing your Phd or MPhil - An essential guide for part time students and those studying under staff regulations

Prof Neil Sheerin provides all of the regulatory and support information required by research students and also considers how best to manage specific issues arising for students working part time on their degree while managing other commitments.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness in self-management (B2)

Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 D1 D2 D3


Introduction to Library Facilities

The library provides a range of essential resources for researchers including access to journals, advice on comprehensive literature searching and guidance on referencing. The session is very useful for students who are new to Newcastle.

“A very useful introduction to the library”

“It was good to learn where to go for help and who the appropriate people are!”

Skills:

A1 C2 D3

Mon 03 October 2016 12:00 – 12:30 Walton Library

Mon 03 October 2016 14:00 – 14:30 Walton Library


100% said the session improved their skills or awareness in professional conduct (C1)

“Enjoyed the practical examples and interaction with group”

“This session was fantastic – the lecturers made it easy to understand”

Skills:

B1 B2 C1 C2 D1 D2

Thu 10 November 2016 11:00 – 12:30 FMS Graduate Training

Thu 26 January 2017 11:00 – 12:30 Ridley 2, 1.58

Statistics and Analysis

Numerous methods of data analysis are employed by researchers looking to support their hypotheses. We aim to support research students with guidance tailored to their research questions. Experienced supervisory teams provide the bulk of this advice but it is often advisable to have an experienced statistician to confirm that your experiments are set up appropriately and that you are using the best approach for your analysis. We are therefore delighted to offer one-to-one statistical support sessions throughout the year. In order to make best use of these sessions there are sessions on Very Basic and Basic Stats. This is followed by SPSS and SAS software training to give you the practical skills to process your data.

Statistical Support: One-to-One Advice These sessions are available throughout the year and can be booked through the Development Programme booking system. The sessions are intended to provide help at critical points rather than continual support; typically students might attend once a year. Support can be provided in any of the following areas Survival analysis (including Cox regression, Kaplan Meier analysis, competing risks analysis) control charting, statistical testing [t-tests, paired tests, ANOVA, ANCOVA, repeated measures] time series regression (linear, multiple, logistic) multivariate statistics (principal components, cluster analysis etc). It is advised that supervisory staff attend these support sessions with their student.

Research IT Support and Overview of Statistical Packages

The session will encompass an overview of research IT support available and a discussion of the variety of statistical packages available, led by Dr Simon Kometa.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness in research management (C2)

“It was useful to find out which packages to use in different circumstances”

Skills:

A1 A2 A3 C2

Tue 15 November 2016 14:00 – 16:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Introduction to Statistical Considerations in Experimental Research The Development Programme provides a range of advice on statistics and methods of data analysis. This session aims to put that advice into context. The session covers the factors to be considered when planning quantitative data collection and how to minimise any risks that are inherent in analysing new information.

95% said the session improved their skills or awareness in cognitive abilities (A2)

“Good to use an interactive example. The speaker was excellent at relating stats to ‘real life’ applications which greatly helped my understanding”

Skills:

A1 A2 B1 C2

Tue 04 October 2016 12:00 – 14:00 MED.L2.8

Basic Stats

Mr David McGeeney gives a succinct tour of contemporary statistical tools and techniques commonly used in medical and bioscience research. Topics covered include

summary statistics, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, ANOVA (Analysis of Variance), correlation and regression.

This workshop is supported by the NIHR Newcastle Training School.


“Excellent instructor, able to transmit very complex concepts in a very interactive and simple way.”

“Does the job of a term in 3 hours!”

Skills:

A1 A2 C2

Wed 23 November 2016 10:00 – 13:00 MED L2.6

Tue 24 January 2017 10:00 – 13:00 MED L2.2

Induction: Working Safely and Appropriately

It is essential that you have the appropriate safety training before commencing research work. This training can be provided by your research institute but should be recorded in you ePortfolio. Governance, ethics and integrity training are matters that can be discussed with your supervisor but the general guidance is that research students will benefit from attending.

Health and Safety Requirements for Research Students

This is a mandatory session for all students who have not received University safety training previously. A general overview of safety procedures, including roles and responsibilities across the University is provided.

NB. This presentation is provided for all research students. Previous MRes students starting a PhD need not attend.


“Made us aware of safety precautions we should take both in the lab and at home”

“Created awareness about different aspects of health and safety and related consequences”

Skills:

C1 C2 D1

Fri 07 October 2016 13:00 – 15:00 DENT LTF

Wed 01 February 2017 13:00 – 15:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Biological and Genetic Modification Safety

This session is mandatory for researchers working with biological agents and will cover safely handling genetically modified organisms (GMO). Essential advice on minimising risks will be provided.


“Detailed and clearly delivered”

“The course was so good for a new starter, especially those who will be working in the lab”

Skills:

C1 C2 D1

Fri 14 October 2016 14:00 – 17:00 DENT LTC

Fri 21 October 2016 14:00 – 17:00 DENT LTD

Mon 24 October 2016 14:00 – 17:00 Baddiley-Clark Seminar Room

Wed 18 January 2017 14:00 – 17:00 DENT LTE

Thu 09 February 2017 09:00 – 12:00 MED.L2.8

Chemical Safety

All researchers working with chemicals are required to attend this training session. Information on COSHH regulations and assessing and controlling risk will be provided. The session provides advice on emergency procedures and first aid measures for fluorides, phenol and cyanide.


“It made me think of safety concerns I would have probably overlooked”

“Very practical. I now know how to fill out a COSHH form”

Skills:

C1 C2 D1

Wed 12 October 2016 15:00 – 17:00 DENT LTF

Wed 19 October 2016 14:00 – 16:00 DENT LTE

Thu 27 October 2016 15:00 – 17:00 DENT LTD

Fri 13 January 2017 10:00 – 12:00 Baddiley-Clark Seminar Room

Wed 08 February 2017 14:00 – 16:00 DENT LTE

NHS Research Governance A member of the Research Management and Governance Team delivers this introduction to the NHS Research Governance framework, clinical trials regulations, the role of the ethics committee and the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (MHRA). This session is compulsory for researchers who have clinical aspects to their work.


“A useful overview of the ethical approval process”

“I gained an understanding of the regulations regarding research governance in the NHS”

Skills:

C1

Wed 16 November 2016 15:00 – 16:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Academic Integrity and Plagiarism

Dr Richy Hetherington covers broad aspects of academic integrity including issues around data manipulation and reproducibility. Ms Erika Gavillet advises on the issues surrounding plagiarism and the methods used to detect it. This workshop is compulsory for all PhD, MD and MPhil students.


Applied Statistics (for ICM research students)

Dr Katrin Jaedicke covers commonly used statistical methods from the biologist’s perspective using data created in a laboratory or clinical trial environment. The use of SPSS and SigmaPlot will be covered.

Research students from other Institutes who are interested in attending should use the ‘register your interest’ button - if places are available you may be invited to attend.

Prerequisites: A knowledge of MS Excel is required. Please attend Data Handling and Spreadsheet Skills if in you are unsure.


“I can’t stress enough the benefits of attending this course.”

“Katrin’s flow diagram is priceless and is something I will no doubt carry with me forever in my scientific studies.”

Wed 05 July 2017 Wed 12 July 2017 Wed 19 July 2017 Wed 26 July 2017

15:00 – 16:00 DENE Cluster

Getting started with the SAS System SAS is a powerful statistical package which can be used for predictive modelling. Dr Simon Kometa provides a quick overview of the essentials of SAS including SAS base and SAS Enterprise Guide.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness in Knowledge base (A1)

“Fantastic workshop-Simon Kometa was great and covered all the necessary content for a basic introduction”

Skills:

A1 A2 A3 C2

Fri 21 April 2017 09:00 – 16:30 DENE Cluster

An Introduction to Scientific Computation – Python

A basic familiarity with a powerful, flexible, easy-to-use and freely available programming language such as Python can markedly increase efficiency in data handling and open new avenues of research. In this session Dr Conor Lawless will demonstrate how to set up a working Python environment on your own machine, how to write some simple code and demonstrate some research-driven example code.

Prerequisite: To get the most from the workshop you should bring a laptop with accessible administrator rights. Course notes are available online: http://tiny.cc/scipyNCL.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness in creativity (A3)

“Most Python introductions are dull and based on syntax. This actually helped in thinking programmatically”

“The pace was perfect. It allowed me to progress steadily with the class and build a level of confidence that has allowed me to carry on after the course.”

Skills:

A1 A3

Tue 25 April 2017 10:00 – 13:00 DENE Cluster

Introduction to Databases Mrs Sue Vecsey discusses the use of databases as opposed to spreadsheets and advises on constructing an MS Access database. Practical advice and hands on direction of using MS Access is provided.


“I most liked being taught how to arrange data to be a database”

Skills:

A1 A2

Fri 10 March 2017 09:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster

SPSS Beginners Dr Simon Kometa provides guidance on the use of the statistical package SPSS and the variety of statistical methods for which it can be used. A basic knowledge of statistics is required to be able to effectively participate in this session.


90% said the session improved their skills or awareness in knowledge base (A1)

“This workshop really addressed the basic aspects and functions of the SPSS software in a very well structured and easy to follow manner”

Skills:

A1 A2

Fri 18 November 2016 09:00 – 16:30 DENE Cluster

Thu 01 Dec 2016 09:00 – 16:30 LINN Cluster

Fri 05 May 2017 09:00 – 16:30 DENE Cluster

SPSS Advanced Building on SPSS for Beginners, Dr Simon Kometa explores the features of SPSS including: simple and multiple regressions; repeated measure analysis, cross tabulation, survival analysis, binary logistic regression and a brief introduction to 2-way and n-way ANOVAs.

Prerequisites: you must have attended the SPSS Beginners workshop or be comfortable using SPSS.



“Loved it! Conducted with adequate guidance and examples so that we could understand how SPSS works”

“Well explained – I liked the practical aspect of the workshop”

Skills:

A1 A2

Thu 18 May 2017 09:00 – 16:30 LINN Cluster

MatLab

Dr Chris Woodford offers this two day interactive workshop to advise on developing mathematical models using MatLab. Day One covers the use of MatLab as a powerful desktop calculator and high level programming language. Day Two will concentrate on special applications: toolboxes; creating additional data; data format and transfer; programming considerations.

Prerequisite: Detailed mathematical knowledge or experience is not a prerequisite. Please email [email protected] to describe your area of interest up to 5 days before the session and this will be covered.


“Very good teacher who was willing to explain and help”

“Overall good introduction to MatLab”

Skills:

A1 A2 A3

Tue 06 Dec 2016 Wed 07 Dec 2016

10:00 – 16:00 LINN Cluster

Data Handling and Spreadsheet Skills

Mrs Sue Vecsey covers topics including analysis, formatting and manipulation of data, production and formatting of charts and graphs, basic statistical analysis using MS Excel, and using Excel as a database with pivot tables.


“I learnt a lot of new features in Excel that I did not know existed”

“Made a lot of concepts I had been struggling with suddenly make sense!”

Skills:

A1 A2 C2

Mon 28 Nov 2016 10:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster

Wed 01 March 2017 10:00 – 12:00 POOL Cluster


Managing Long Documents

Mrs Sue Vecsey and Ms Linda Errington organise this session, which trains students in using IT to produce a thesis or other long, complex work. Building on previous document

management and library skills sessions, it provides all the information needed to ensure that research work is the focus of your later stages, rather than learning to understand specific software. Most beneficial to final year students about to start or already writing up their thesis.

N.B. The following sessions are pre-requisites for this course: Document Management - Content and Layout / Images and Tables, EndNote, Non-Medline Library Databases and Advanced Document Management.

You should have completed these sessions within the last 18 months. Prerequisite sessions can be taken online.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness in communication and dissemination (D2)

“I found the practical elements in this workshop particularly useful”

Skills:

A1 A2 C2 D2

Thu 12 January 2017 13:00 – 17:00 DENE Cluster

Thu 16 March 2017 13:00 – 17:00 DENE Cluster

Thu 22 June 2017 13:00 – 17:00 DENE Cluster

Non-Medline Library Databases Recommended for all inexperienced researchers wishing to increase their knowledge of databases other than Medline. It will cover Scopus, Web of Knowledge, CINAHL and touch on the content of Embase and PsycInfo. Ms Erika Gavillet offers advice on citation searches, combined and limited searches, checking reference availability in the library catalogue and electronic journals, and selecting, emailing, saving and printing articles and references. Also useful for experienced researchers requiring a refresher.


“I’ve never been fully confident carrying out DB searches - I feel much more confident now and especially like the accompanying workbook”

Skills:

A1 A2 C2 D2

Thu 06 October 2016 09:00 – 11:00 GLEN Cluster

Fri 07 October 2016 11:00 – 13:00 GLEN Cluster

Tue 11 October 2016 14:00 – 16:00 GLEN Cluster


Mon 24 October 2016 09:00 – 11:00 GLEN Cluster

Medline Understanding the structure of Medline is key to using it well and this session aims to cover this as well as on signing into the database, using subject headings and limits, using combined and limited searches, checking reference availability in the library catalogue and electronic journals, and selecting, emailing, saving and printing articles and references. Also useful for experienced researchers requiring a refresher course.


“Enabled me to feel more confident in my ability to develop my literature skills to a higher level”

“Very clear and helpful lecturer”

Skills:

A1 A3 C2

Fri 04 Nov 2016 10:00 – 11:30 GLEN Cluster

Thu 24 Nov 2016 11:00 – 12:30 GLEN Cluster

Mon 12 Dec 2016 10:00 – 11:30 GLEN Cluster

Mon 30 January 2017 12:00 – 13:30 GLEN Cluster

Robust Search Methodologies for Literature Review In this presentation Ms Erika Gavillet provides advice on how to choose the appropriate databases and frame a search query, including: defining your topic; tips for narrowing and broadening your search; using controlled vocabulary; sensitivity v specificity; selecting appropriate sources; search engines and databases; Boolean logic and good practice for keeping records.


“Presenter kept the talk topical and informative and related to the group”

“Really insightful and gave excellent advice for useful resources that are available”

Skills:

A1 A3 C2

Wed 12 October 2016 10:00 – 11:30 GLEN Cluster

Thu 10 Nov 2016 09:00 – 10:30 GLEN Cluster

Thu 08 Dec 2016 15:00 – 16:30 GLEN Cluster

Tue 31 January 2017 09:00 – 10:30 GLEN Cluster

Wed 22 Feb 2017 14:00 – 15:30 GLEN Cluster

Referencing and Document Control Understanding how to put together documents effectively, including how to use a reference manager, can save hours of wasted time. The series of sessions build on using the full functionary of MS Word to incorporate references culminating in advice of creating a master document for creating a thesis.

Document Management – Content and Layout Mrs Sue Vecsey organises this self-directed study workshop, on how to get the most out of MS Word using styles and style sets, table of contents, page layout and numbering, headers and footers, spelling and grammar, and equations. Recommended for first year students working on their end of year report, and for those needing a refresher before writing their thesis. Attendance is recommended but this course can also be completed online (ONLINE Document Management - Content and Layout).


“I can’t recommend this course enough - what I learned during this course will save me so much time in future when it comes to formatting documents”

Skills:

A1 C2 D2


Mon 05 June 2017 10:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster

Document Management – Images and Tables Mrs Sue Vecsey organises this supervised, self-directed workshop, suitable for first year students working on their end of year report. It covers creating and managing images, formatting and manipulating tables and referencing these objects within the document efficiently. Attendance is recommended but this course can also be completed online (ONLINE Document Management - Images and Tables).

N.B. Document Management - Content and Layout is a pre-requisite for this course. (http://fms-itskills.ncl.ac.uk/pgres/dmcl)


“This session met all the expectations I had for the learning outcomes to be covered”

“I finally understand a lot of things which have puzzled me for years!”

Skills:

A1 C2 D2

Thu 20 October 2016 10:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster

Thu 08 June 2017 10:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster

EndNote All researchers wishing to use EndNote should take the first possible opportunity to attend this workshop, presented by Ms Erika Gavillet. The session is includes: searching for and importing references, adding citations to a document and formatting your bibliography, linking to full text, amending citations and annotating and organising references.


“The step by step guide was brilliant - having never used Endnote before the session I learned a great deal”

“Although I was familiar with using EndNote before, I learned more useful features”

Skills:

A1 A2 B2 C2

Wed 05 October 2016 16:00 – 17:00 POOL Cluster



Mon 17 October 2016 09:00 – 10:00 GLEN Cluster

Tue 18 October 2016 12:00 – 13:00 GLEN Cluster

Mon 07 Nov 2016 14:00 – 15:00 GLEN Cluster

Tue 08 Nov 2016 12:00 – 13:00 GLEN Cluster


Thu 08 Dec 2016 14:00 – 15:00 GLEN Cluster

Advanced Document Management – Using Word and EndNote

Mrs Sue Vecsey and Ms Linda Errington run this session covering new and advanced techniques in Word and EndNote (e.g. templates, page layout, references and bibliographic tools) as well as reviewing previously covered skills. Suitable for second or third year students and those preparing to write their thesis, plus MRes students preparing their dissertation. Attendance is recommended but this session can also be completed online (ONLINE Advanced Document Management).

N.B. The following sessions are pre-requisites for this course: Document Management - Content and Layout, Document Management - Images and Tables, and EndNote. It would also be beneficial if you have attended the session on Non-Medline Library Databases.


“Very practical and helped to develop skills useful to writing up the thesis”

“Really friendly teaching staff. Printed out document is useful for referring to when writing dissertation”

Skills:

A1 A2 C2 D2

Thu 08 Dec 2016 10:00 – 13:00 DENE Cluster

Tue 20 June 2017 13:00 – 16:00 DENE Cluster


Public Health and Health Service Research students- Preparing for your First Year Review (Mandatory for PhD, MD and MPhil in IH&S) This session is aimed at students undertaking epidemiological and applied health research to inform public health and health care interventions, who may use different research methods and procedures and have different research outputs and impacts to biomedical research students. Recognising these differences, we are keen to provide targeted support when it comes to annual progression. Dr Lindsay Pennington, the Postgraduate Research Student Co-ordinator for the Institute of Health & Society, will lead this session. All research students should attend either this or Your Personal Development Plan – Preparing for the Progress Review Panel on 27 February. You are welcome to attend both, whilst acknowledging there may be some repetition between the two.


Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 D1 D2

Mon 13 March 2017 12:00 – 13:00 Ridley 2, 1.58

Annual Review and Reporting

Writing a Literature Review The literature review is often one of the earliest parts of the thesis to be written, but handling large amounts of literature can be overwhelming. This workshop, run by a member of staff from the Writing Development Centre, discusses how to map out the field, structure the literature review, and retain control over the material without losing your own critical contribution. Ways to evaluate sources and report other people’s work fairly and accurately, and positioning yourself in relation to the work of others, are also considered.

Though not compulsory, this workshop is useful for anyone writing a review paper or the introduction to a thesis or paper.


“A well-presented workshop that provided some good starting points for putting together a literature review.”

“Very engaging… highlighted ways to tackle this broad, complicated task.”

Skills:

A1 A3 C1 D2

Wed 08 March 2017 14:00 – 15:30 DENT.LTE

Your Personal Development Plan (PDP) – Preparing for the Progress Review Panel

The early stages of a PhD are a steep learning curve for most, so how do you ensure that you capture this learning and get the most from this experience and the opportunities on offer? Facilitated by Dr Alison Tyson-Capper, Dr Lorna Dargan of the Careers Service and a research student who has been through progression, this session offers short perspectives on getting the most from your PDP and an insight into the expectations of the Progress Review Panel.

This session is mandatory for all first year PhD, MD and MPhil students.


“Good to be reassured about the 1st year review and hear advice from a student’s perspective”

“Very useful…enabled me to identify some of my learning needs and get focused”

Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 D1 D2

Mon 27 Feb2017 12:00 – 13:00 DENT LTD

Writing Your First Year Report Dr Alison Tyson-Capper offers strategic and technical advice on writing a suitable literature review for your first year report. The session will consider what should be included in your report and the amount of time that should be spent completing it.

Although not compulsory, it is strongly recommended that all students approaching their first year report write-up attend this session.

92% said the session improved their skills or awareness in self-management (B2)

“Very calming and informative! Having the manuscripts to look at was very useful.”

“A ‘must go’ for the first year research student as it covers all the important aspects of the review.”

Skills:

A1 A3 B2 C2 D2

Thu 02 March 2017 13:00 – 14:00 DENT LTD

Alerting Services In this short workshop Ms Erika Gavillet will show you the best ways to receive information about resources and research in your subject area without leaving the comfort of your chair. Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI) and alerting services inform you when research is published in your desired subject area.


“Great instructor”

“Refreshed my knowledge of databases”

Skills:

A1 A2 C2


Mon 30 January 2017 15:00 – 16:00 GLEN Cluster

Health Research Methods

Systematic Review

This session aims to support researchers as they work towards a comprehensive literature review. Of particular interest to those working in public health, but useful for all to attend. Presented by Dawn Craig (January) and Fiona Beyer (February).



“Clear concise instructions for you to go away and explore”

Skills:

A1 A2 A3 C2

Wed 11 January 2017 11:00 – 13:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite


NVivo training

This session is led by Dr Matthew Breckons and Dr Jo Lally, qualitative Research Associates in the Institute of Health & Society. It introduces NVivo for qualitative data management and analysis and includes how to start a

project, upload data, begin coding, run reports and techniques to aid data analysis. There are hands-on exercises and, although data will be provided, attendees are encouraged to bring their own transcripts to work with. Attendees should understand the principles of qualitative research.


“Very good introduction to NVivo, covering everything I needed to get started”

Skills:

A1 A2 A3 C2 D1 D3

Wed 05 April 2017 10:00 – 15:00 LINN Cluster

Qualitative Interviewing in Health Research: From Design to Publication

The Institute of Health & Society runs this two day interactive workshop to introduce those working in universities and in clinical roles to the processes and practices of qualitative interviewing in applied health research, taking you through each stage of design, conduct and analysis. There will be lots of opportunities to discuss your own work or ideas, and to hear from other researchers about their experiences. Facilitated by experienced qualitative researchers: Prof Cath Exley, Dr Katie Brittain and Dr Tim Rapley.

For further information or to register please contact: [email protected]

“All presentations were excellent and really useful, targeting relevant big issues which I’ve experienced myself and needed help with!”

“It really was a practical course, which is exactly what I was hoping”

Wed 14 June 2017 Thu 15 June 2017

09:00 – 12:30 The Core, Science Central


Engagement and Communicating Research – Public and Patient

Patient involvement and public engagement is essential to research and is imperative for all researchers. It is important as a pathway to impact and being able to communicate your research to lay audiences is a crucial skill.

The Faculty Engagement team provides a range of great opportunities to ensure all researchers benefit from being involved in engagement. The team also provide a critical link to the public through voice north, our public engagement network who have a keen interest in medical research and in particular ageing research and teaching.

Follow us on Twitter: @EngageFMS Email: [email protected] Tel: 0191 208 1287

Patient and Public Involvement Matters - Monthly Advice and Guidance sessions An opportunity to meet members of the Faculty Engagement team and have personalised guidance on any matters related to patient involvement and public engagement in your research or teaching.

Sessions take place monthly and are advertised through the research student development programme booking system (workshops.ncl.ac.uk).

Training Matters There are also a series of ‘Training Matters’ sessions that take place regularly on a range of subjects related to patient involvement and public engagement. They provide an opportunity to network and share learning with individuals across the Faculty. These will be advertised through the booking system.

Support for Researchers working with public and patient groups

In this session Dr Susan Hrisos and Dr Lynne Corner will take you through their experience of involving the public in the design and delivery of research and give you the chance to discuss ways you can increase the impact of your work by developing effective partnerships with patients and the wider public. The session will cover various aspects of research including, ethics, funding, and both undertaking and evaluating your work.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness of working with others (D1)

“Enabled me to feel comfortable with my first meeting with a family”

“Helped me realise what PPI really involves”

Skills:

D1 D2 D3

Wed 24 May 2017 10:00 – 12:00 Baddiley-Clark Seminar Room

Second Year Annual Review: Your Research Outputs Aimed at all PhD students approaching their second year annual review. In the first part, Dr Alison Tyson-Capper describes the expectations for the second year report and answers your queries about the review process. Whether your career goals are in academia or outside of academic research, the outputs from your work are a significant measure of your success and ability. In the second part, Prof Deborah Henderson gives advice on how to get your work published and the value of a variety of other outputs from your studies. There will be some guidance for students considering a fellowship application.

This session is mandatory for all students due to complete their second year review.


“Good overview of what is required for the 2nd year review”

“I enjoyed the talk about career progression and considering my career path after my PhD”

Skills:

A1 A3 B2 C2 D2 D3

Mon 06 March 2017 13:00 – 14:00 Baddiley-Clark Seminar Room

Induction Catch Up This session, facilitated by Dr Richy Hetherington, is aimed at April starters, or any research students that have missed mandatory sessions and don’t want to wait until the next academic year. There will be a quick run through of induction materials including how to access materials online. Also covers ePortfolio, managing your research degree and recording your research.


“This workshop provided me with practical information to use during my studies”

Skills:

A3 B1 B3 C1 C2 C3 D1 D3

Wed 10 May 2017 15:00 – 17:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Dr Lynne Corner, Director of Engagement


{React} Science Magazine and Public Engagement This workshop is aimed at all students with an interest in science writing and communications. Over the course of the day, you will receive an introduction to public engagement science journalism, tips on how to research and write an article and how to make scientific information accessible to a lay audience.


“Useful to hear from an experienced science communicator as to what mistakes we should try to avoid”

“Great facilitators, great experiences, highly recommended”

Skills:

A3 B3 C3 D1 D2 D3

Thu 23 February 2017 09:00 – 17:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Bright Club Is there a light-hearted tale to tell about your research? Would you like to improve your communication skills and reach a new audience with your work? Bright Club Newcastle offers researchers the opportunity to take to the stage in the stand-up style and tell the stories of their work. Organisers at The Centre for Life are offering the opportunity for training to help tailor your material for an audience of comedy enthusiasts.

Bright Club performance dates are listed below. Training sessions usually take place around two weeks before the performance and will be advertised through the development programme booking system (workshops.ac.uk). More details at: www.life.org.uk/bright-club

“I laughed, I cried, I conquered. Bright Club was simultaneously the most challenging and rewarding thing I have done to date”

Skills:

A3 B1 D2 D3

13 September 2016 20:30 – 22:30 The Stand Comedy Club

15 November 2016 20:30 – 22:30 The Stand Comedy Club

21 February 2017 20:30 – 22:30 The Stand Comedy Club

02 May 2017 20:30 – 22:30 The Stand Comedy Club

18 July 2017 20:30 – 22:30 The Stand Comedy Club

Three Minute Thesis The Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition asks doctoral students to explain their research in just three minutes using only one slide. The explanation should be easily understood by a non-specialist. Winners of the University competition will go forwards to a prestigious national completion. Heats and training sessions will take place in spring 2017 with finals taking place in the summer. Events will be advertised through the development programme booking system (workshops.ncl.ac.uk) details of the national competition can be found at https://www.vitae.ac.uk/events/three-minute-thesis-competition

FameLab is another competition where contestants have just three minutes to convey a science concept in an exciting way, but without the focus on your own research project. This international competition allows props but no slides at all. Heats and training sessions will take place in spring 2017 and will be advertised through the development programme booking system (workshops.ncl.ac.uk). For more information see www.famelab.org or contact [email protected] at any time.

Clinical Research with Older people

Dr Ellen Tullo will deliver an interactive workshop which explores the challenges, opportunities and advantages associated with involving older people in clinical research. This will include ethical and legal considerations as well as discussion on how to make contact with difficult to reach groups.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness of professional conduct (C1)

“Very informative and interactive workshop”

“Good insight into the practical considerations and obstacles to engage older people in research”

Skills:

C1 C2 D2 D3

Tue 08 Nov 2016 12:00 – 15:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Making an Impact in the Media Learn how to identify the media potential in your research, what opportunities can be offered from traditional and social media and what you need to think about to help turn your research into a story. You will also hear from an editor first-hand about what she is looking for. You will need to prepare a paragraph in advance summarising your work to get the most out of this highly-interactive session led by Karen Bidewell, Senior Media Relations Manager in the Faculty of Medical Sciences.


Skills:

A3 B3 D2 D3

Thu 20 October 2016 14:00 – 16:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Introduction to Social Media for Researchers – What it can do for you Social media is not just about Twitter and Facebook - there are lots of tips and tools which may be useful to you as a researcher. Come along to this session and find out what social media might do for you and how it is being used to measure impact in the world of research. Session led by Ms Erika Gavillet.


Skills:

B1 B3 D2 D3

Mon 07 Nov 2016 12:00 – 13:30 GLEN Cluster

Meet the Scientist Fancy chatting to the public about your research? Got some really cool science you are just desperate to show off? Need heaps of data for you research project? The Meet the Scientist programme is for you. Run by the Centre for Life, the programme is a great way to get your research out there, demonstrate exciting scientific phenomena or simply to gather lots of data fast. There are regular slots available to set up with a stall or make use of our custom designed space.

The programme runs throughout the year. Enquiries should be sent to: [email protected].

Skills:

A3 C1 C2 D1 D2 D3


Engagement and Communicating Research – Peers and Policy

SET for Britain (House of Commons) Poster Event – Application Support

The SET for Britain posters competition is a great opportunity for researchers to display the relevance of their work to members of parliament. In this session a previous participant will offer the benefit of their experience and there will be guidance on the poster and abstract.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness of engagement and impact (D3)

“It was good to hear from someone who had experienced the competition previously”

Skills:

A3 B3 D2 D3

Mon 21 Nov 2016 15:00 – 17:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Communication and Presentation Skills

All postgraduate research students are required to present their work and an increasing emphasis is being placed on the ability to present well. Prof Daniel Nettle offers advice based on his own experience of presenting his work to a variety of audiences. This session will provide guidance on how to express your science in a clear and interesting fashion. A useful session for all students, but particularly those who are preparing

an oral presentation as part of a conference, annual assessment or their viva.


“A topic frequently covered, but delivered in a novel way”

“Tips on what not to do…many were things that I had done in the past without even realising.”

Skills:

A1 A2 A3 B3 D1 D2 D3

Mon 15 May 2017 14:00 – 15:00 DENT LTD

Presentation Skills Using PowerPoint Mrs Sue Vecsey takes you through the stages of creating a good presentation, from researching and knowing your audience to rehearsing and delivering. You will be shown how to improve the visual impact of your presentation and, at the same time, how to avoid the pitfalls of using some of the more advanced features of Microsoft PowerPoint.


“One of the most informative and enjoyable workshops I attended this year”

“Good refresher of presentation skills”

Skills:

A1 A2 D1 D2 D3

Thu 25 May 2017 10:00 – 12:00 DENE Cluster

What Makes a Good Poster?

Professor Anthony Moorman and Dr Elizabeta Mukaetova-Ladinska oversee this interactive workshop uses existing posters to examine what makes a good poster, providing practical advice on layout, title, figures, use

of colour and other design features. For any student thinking about presenting a poster this session provides a fantastic insight into what will make their poster easy to read and memorable.


“Really useful to look at all the previous posters and to try and critique them”

“Lots of examples to get ideas on the different ways of doing an academic poster”

Skills:

A1 A3 B3 C1 D2 D3

Tue 06 June 2017 10:00 – 12:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Tue 06 June 2017 12:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

FameLab FameLab is an international competition for scientists, mathematicians and engineers to get involved in science communications. Participants have three minutes to convey a scientific concept of their choice, this does not need to be their own research.

They will be judged by leading researchers, media personalities and science policy makers on the content, clarity and charisma of their presentation. Each national winner goes on to compete against over 25 other contestants from around the world at The Times Cheltenham Science Festival in June 2017.

For further details see: http://www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/about/famelab/

Support and guidance will be provided for any research student wishing to take part.

Soapbox Science Soapbox Science is a novel public outreach platform for promoting women scientists and the science they do. They place inspirational speakers on soapboxes in public areas and encourage them to engage in and start conversations with the public about their work. Events will take place in summer 2017 and the closing date for applications is usually in February. Check workshops.ncl.ac.uk for details and go to http://soapboxscience.org to find out more about the project.

Engagement and Communicating Research – Teaching and Young People

Teaching Opportunities for Research Students

Paid teaching opportunities are available to full time PhD, MD and MPhil students who have the appropriate knowledge base and time available. This session will clarify how much time can be devoted to teaching, applicable payments and what training is required and available.

90% said the session improved their skills or awareness in professional and career development (B3)

“Informed me of the large amount of teaching courses and support available (for free too!)”

“Introduced multiple avenues for potential postgraduate work”

Skills:

B3 D1 D2 D3

Tue 11 October 2016 12:00 – 13:00 DENT LTF

Teaching and Supervising Project Students Dr Alison Tyson-Capper and Dr Marita Grimwood run this session providing support and guidance for researchers who are involved in the teaching or supervision of undergraduate or masters project students. Whether you are directly responsible for supervising a student’s project or find yourself offering advice and helping out, this session will help you understand what is expected of you and how to manage students’ expectations.

91% said the session improved their skills or awareness of working with others

“It gave me the perspective of both the student and the supervisor very objectively”

Skills:

B1 B3 C1 D1 D2

Thu 15 Dec 2016 12:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Mon 23 January 2017 12:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

The Brilliant Club – Meaningful teaching experience

The Brilliant Club is an award winning charity that recruits, trains and places doctoral researchers into state schools to deliver programmes of university-style tutorials to small

groups of high performing pupils. Placements offer researchers the chance to complete meaningful and well-paid work, whilst communicating their research and gaining teaching experience.

Sessions to introduce the scheme will be held in Autumn 2016 and will be advertised on workshops.ncl.ac.uk. You may attend an introduction session with no obligation to take part in the scheme.

75% said the session improved their skills or awareness in engagement and impact (D3)

“Brilliant Club…has the potential to transform the UK education system. I have enjoyed my experience tutoring and am proud to be associated with such a worthwhile cause.”


Poster Presentations: Practical Advice Professor Anthony Moorman and Dr Elizabeta Mukaetova-Ladinska oversee this supervised self-directed study session, which gives researchers the chance to evaluate poster templates, as well as offering tips on how they can improve their own poster designs. This is a particularly valuable session for students with a partly designed poster or who have a poster they would like to improve.


“It was good to get advice on my poster”

Skills:

A1 D2 D3

Tue 13 June 2017 14:00 – 16:00 DENE Cluster

NEPG and Conferencing Disseminating your research findings and discussing proposed research is an essential aspect of a researchers career. All research students are encouraged to attend appopriate conferences and reach out to the academic community to discuss their work.

The NEPG conference is the largest annual postgraduate conference in the UK, featuring the latest biomedical science and health research carried out by postgraduate researchers in the North East and beyond. The conference provides postgraduates the chance to attend insightful talks by renowned speakers, participate in workshops and make vital relationships with fellow researchers and sponsors. NEPG 2016 is proud to support Mind, the mental health charity. For more details, and to register, go to www.ne-pg.co.uk

NEPG Postgraduate Conference Organisers Meeting The NEPG provides a great opportunity for research students to present their work but this conference is also organised by research students. This meeting provides a commitment free chance to find out about getting involved it the planning and delivery of the NEPG for 2017. A member of the 2016 organising team and Richy Hetherington will provide advice on what is involved in planning the conference.


“The workshop was an eye-opener for me with regards to issues pertaining to conferences.”

Skills:

A3 B1 B3 C2 D1 D3

Wed 14 Dec 2016 13:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Public Speaking (NEPG support)

In these sessions Brad McCormick, professional actor and artistic director at Cap-a-Pie, will provide advice on how best to perform your presentations at the North East Postgraduate Conference or other events. A practical workshop, in a supported environment, exploring voice projection, stage presence and how to make your research exciting and engaging for an audience.


“It was great…I will recommend this session to people.”

Skills:

A3 D2 D3

Wed 02 Nov 2016 10:00 – 12:30 FMS Graduate Training Suite


Thu 03 Nov 2016 10:00 – 12:30 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Chairing at a Scientific Meeting

Prof Rob Taylor will present the first session, primarily for the students who will be chairing a session at the NEPG Conference. The later session will be led by Dr Alison Tyson-Capper. The facilitators share their experiences of chairing at numerous scientific meetings, including how to make a speaker feel at ease, encourage positive and non-confrontational questions, and ensure everything runs to schedule. Both sessions are open to all research students.


“There was a relaxed style and opportunity to ask questions”

“Lots of good tips for chairing NEPG conference”

Skills:

C1 D1 D2 D3



Academic Writing: Accessible Abstracts It is not uncommon for researchers to write texts that are only accessible to those with advanced knowledge of their field. In this session a member of staff from the Writing Development Centre offers guidance on how to write clear, accessible and engaging abstracts. Common problems are identified and the features of successful abstracts are examined. Recommended for all students who wish to gain a better understanding of good practice in academic writing, especially those planning to submit abstracts for the annual postgraduate conference.


“The entire workshop was brilliant. I liked that it was so interactive and it got you thinking about abstract writing for

different audiences and how best to portray your research effectively”

Skills:

A1 A2 B3 D1 D3

Wed 12 July 2017 11:00 – 12:30 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Enterprise and Impact Whether you are looking to stay in academia, move on to a career in industrial science or use a broader application of your skills, there is an ever increasing demand for you to have an awareness of impact and the commercial outcomes that may emerge from research. The sessions in this section offer perspectives from academics involved in enterprises that have developed from their research findings, companies that are active in the exploitation of scientific results, and the infrastructure that supports commercial outcomes.

Biotech & Environment YES (Young Entrepreneurs Scheme) information

The Biotechnology Young Entrepreneurs Scheme (Biotechnology YES) and Environment YES provide the gold standard in training offered in the area

of commercialisation of research. YES entrants work in teams to create a hypothetical company bidding for funding to commercialise their ideas. They receive training from entrepreneurs, patent lawyers, financiers and industry representatives in the business skills necessary to recognise, protect and harness the commercial potential of scientific research outputs.

The competition takes place over three days with business standard accommodation and conferencing facilities. The prize for the winner is £2,500 and a trip to the USA.

There will be an introductory session to explain the competition and hear from previous participants. This takes place over lunchtime.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness in finance, funding and resources (C3)

“Opportunity to get involved with research in a business context on a national scale”

“The facilitator and all the previous participants were ready to answer questions on how best to go about it”

Skills:

A1 A3 C2 C3 D2

Thu 04 May 2017 13:00 – 14:00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Translational Tales: Getting Investment

Mr Jonathan Gold, Director of Rivers Capital Partners and co-founder and owner of Finance Tree, presents a clear picture of what investors are looking for and the sort of returns they require when investing in a business idea.


“Highlighted the attributes investors look for in small businesses and how to build a successful team”

“Having a venture capitalist explain venture capitalism was pretty ideal. He was a fantastic speaker and really interesting to listen to”

Skills:

A3 B3 C1 C3 D1 D3

Wed 05 October 2016 15:00 – 16:00 Ridley 1, 2.04

Insights from Industry: Newgene

Dr Angela Silmon is the CEO of Newgene, a successful university spin-out company specialising in Next Generation Sequencing for medical diagnostics. This presentation will explain how high end technology is being used to support clinicians and the importance of commercial awareness in this process. This session is new to the development programme. Your feedback is greatly appreciated.



Translational Tales: Demuris

Dr Nick Allenby manages all research operation at Demuris, a Newcastle University spin out company that focuses on the pressing issue of antibiotic resistance by the development of novel antibiotics.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness in professional and career development (B3)

“I really like the presenter’s manner, the story of pyrolysis and the technical information was at the correct level - understandable by all”

Skills:

A1 A3 B3 C3 D3


Insights from Industry: Hexis Lab

Dr Olusola (Sola) Idowuis is the CEO of Hexis Labs, a company at the forefront of innovation in skin care and nutrition. This presentation will give insights into the operations of a spin out company operating in the healthcare market place. This session is new to the development programme. Your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Skills:

A1 B1 B3 C1 D1 D3


Translational Tales: HistoCyte Laboratories

Mr Colin Tristram is the co-founder of HistoCyte Laboratories Ltd, a small business producing analyte controls for use in immunohistochemistry and in-situ hybridisation assays. This presentation provides great insights into the start-up of a biotech company from outside of a university.


“Very candid description of business”

Skills:

A1 B1 B3 C1 D1


Translational Tales: Alcyomics Ltd

Alcyomics Ltd are a Newcastle University spin-out service company providing cost effective alternatives to animal testing for drugs, chemical and cosmetics. Senior Scientific Officer, Dr Shaheda Ahmed will present a short history of the company and how they have developed this innovative service.


“An excellent speaker, who integrated the story of her business very well with the broad themes underpinning the running of a business”

Skills:

A1 A3 B1 B3 C1 D3


Translational Tales: Biofilms

Dr Nick Jakubovics heads a research group investigating the disruption of microbial biofilms. Initially focused on the commercial applications of this in dentistry, the group have expanded to consider potential impacts in a range of areas. This session is new to the development programme. Your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Skills:

A1 A3 B2 B3 C3 D3


Insights from Industry: Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)

Mr Paul Graham is a Qualified Person (QP) and consultant who provides training and support for companies in the pharmaceutical industry. This session provides insights into the how standards are maintained in drug manufacture and will be very useful for researchers considering commercial applications or a career in the pharmaceuticals sector.

89% said the session increased awareness or improved their skills in professional conduct (C1)

“Now I am more aware about Good Manufacturing Practice and how it is important in order to ensure safety of people during the development of drugs”

Skills:

A1 B1 B3 C1 C2 D1 D2

Wed 02 Nov 2016 15:30 – 17:00 Ridley 1, 2.04

Insights from Industry: Intellectual Property

Patent Attorneys Murgitroyd & Co. deliver this session, which aims to highlight the importance of Intellectual Property Rights when attempting to generate an impact from research findings. It will cover the patent process including costs and timings and the significance of disclosure. Other forms of IPR will also be discussed.

91% said the session increased awareness or improved their skills in finance, funding and resources (C3)

“It was a really interesting talk, and very helpful to have someone who knows all about IP and IP law”

Skills:

A1 A3 B2 B3 C2 C3 D3

Wed 02 Nov 2016 14:00 – 15:00 Ridley 1, 2.04

Insights from Industry: Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies UK Ltd. (formally Avecia)

Mr Chris Mullen is the Head of Manufacturing at Fujifilm Diosynth’s Billingham site. This presentation offers a perspective on drug development and manufacture from a world leader in this field. The company is a major employer of R&D scientists and may help researchers understand how their finding can be translated and a view of careers outside of academic research.

100% said the session improved their skills and awareness in professional and career development (B3)

“A very clear overview of how a such a big biotech company works and is organised”

Skills:

B3 C1 C2 C3 D1 D3

Wed 16 Nov 2016 15:00 – 17:00 Ridley 1, 2.04

Insights from Industry: Project Management

Mr John Patterson has many years’ experience heading up numerous projects for one of the most successful companies in the North East. This session will consider a variety of project management techniques and put into context the use of different approaches in research and commercial projects.


“It helped with my understanding what Project Management means and its importance for accomplishing aims that extend beyond the PhD thesis”

Wed 07 Dec 2016 15:00 – 17:00 Ridley 1, 2.04


Faculty and Technical Support Research Facilities The Faculty of Medical Sciences combines state-of-the-art facilities, specialist equipment and experienced staff to provide a variety of scientific and clinical facilities. A vast range of technical skills training is provided by the individual research institutes. More information about facilities can be found at: http://www.ncl.ac.uk/medicalsciences/ research/facilities/

Open Lab Book The Open Lab Book is a collaborative project between postgraduate students in the Faculty of Medical Sciences and the School of Biology. It aims to create a web resource of common techniques, including instructional videos, complemented by student-led sessions. These teaching sessions will be a chance for students to learn new techniques, but will also be a chance to discuss issues with common techniques and how to avoid them. Training and teaching opportunities can be provided for students who are willing to lead a session on a particular technique. Forthcoming Open Lab Book sessions will be listed on: https://workshops.ncl.ac.uk and you can find out more about the project at http://theopenlabbook.com/

Trial Management: What Can Newcastle Clinical Trials Unit Do For You? This session is a part of the NIHR Newcastle Training School. Dr Jennifer Wilkinson introduces the Newcastle Clinical Trials Unit (NCTU), and offers advice on how the NCTU can help you in your research. You will be given pointers on what you need to consider when running a clinical trial, when to contact NCTU, and who to contact. Dr Jennifer Wilkinson will also offer examples of previous projects where NCTU have been involved.

75% said the session improved their skills or awareness of Research Management (C2)

“This was an excellent talk that provided an understanding of the role of the clinical trials coordination team and their responsibilities”

Skills:

A1 C2 C3

Tue 14 March 2017 12:00 – 13:30 Venue TBC

Scientific Facilities Showcase An opportunity to learn more about the Faculty of Medical Sciences’ Scientific Facilities, including Bioimaging, Bioinformatics, Electron Microscopy, Flow Cytometry, Genomics, High-Throughput Screening, Infectious Diseases, Preclinical In Vivo Imaging and Protein Production and Analysis.

Explore the range of expertise available in the University, and find out how your projects can benefit from working with these specialist staff and their equipment.

Please register online: http://forms.ncl.ac.uk/view.php?id=10220 or contact [email protected].

Thu 17 Nov 2016 09.00 – 12.00 Baddiley-Clark Seminar Room

Practicalities of Cellular Analysis Our annual ‘Practicalities of…’ returns with a focus this year on Bioimaging, Electron Microscopy, Flow Cytometry, Infectious Diseases and Preclinical In Vivo Imaging. The event is aimed at anyone wanting to learn more about these particular scientific facilities and their related research methods.

“I thought the event was very good, and very well organised.”

“A great overview of some interesting techniques”

For further details and to register go to: http://conferences.ncl.ac.uk/practicalities2017/

Tue 28 March 2017 09.00 – 17.00 David Shaw Lecture Theatre

Zotero, Twitter etc. Tools for the 21st Century Researcher

This session discusses the range of tools researchers can use to retrieve, store and share information within the bracket of Web 2.0 technologies. Dr Simon Cockell of the Bioinformatics Support Unit covers social networking sites like Twitter, online reference managers such as Zotero, places to discuss your research findings such as ResearchBlogging.com, forums to get help with problems and ways to stay informed when something new happens. Simon also addresses the risks of sharing and help you determine safe practices when discussing your work online.


“I learned more about the tools for research on the internet – there were several I had not heard of before”

Skills:

A1 A3 C2 D1 D2 D3


Writing and Completion

Writing Development Centre All students are encouraged to access the Writing Development Centre, located on Level 2 of the Robinson Library. They run a programme of lectures, workshops and other group sessions throughout the academic year on core academic skills to help you become a confident and successful independent learner. They offer one to one tutorials which focus in depth on a specific issue you want to work on. They also maintain a range of online resources on academic skills and writing.

To make an appointment, book a workshop or find out about opening hours, please see the WDC website http://www.ncl.ac.uk/students/wdc/ or email [email protected].

Thesis Writing

This session provides an overview of the regulations on thesis preparation and submission. Using her experience of successfully supervising numerous research students to favourable conclusions Prof Zofia Chrzanowska-Lightowlers offers tips on ways to structure a thesis and good approaches to the writing-up process. Strongly recommended for all students in their final year.

91% said the session improved their skills or awareness of Research Management (C2)

“Nice examples of what to do and what not to do from the perspective of an examiner.”

Skills:

A1 A2 C2 D2

Fri 10 February 2017 13:00 – 15:00 DENT LTD

The Viva and Beyond

Your viva (research degree oral presentation) is a good opportunity to reflect on your performance as well as identifying areas in which you might still need help. It is also good preparation for

interview panels and supporting proposals. In this session Prof John Kirby will cover what you should expect from your viva and how you should prepare for it. He will also give the benefit of his experience, explaining typical viva scenarios.

90% said the session improved their skills or awareness of professional and career development (B3)

“A thorough and clear run through of what to expect from the viva and the preparations that can be made beforehand.”

Skills:

A1 B1 B2 B3 D2 D3

Thu 27 April 2016 12:00 – 13:00 DENT LTD

Academic Writing

A member of staff from the Writing Development Centre will deliver this workshop. At PhD level, your style is evolving into that of a confident, independent scholar and this session aims

to support you as you develop your authorial voice and control of academic language in the context of the thesis. This interactive session will help you to identify the conventional features of scholarly writing, explore ways to make your writing clearer and more confident, and discuss strategies to develop your own style.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness of communication and dissemination (D2)

“Brilliant informative workshop.”

“Helped to see common mistakes and how to avoid them in a simple way. Really good!”

Skills:

A1 A2 C2 D2

Thu 12 January 2017 10:00 – 12:00 MED L2.4

Scientific Writing Dr Alison Tyson-Capper offers guidance on scientific writing, particularly for academic publication. She will draw on her extensive experience in this area, suggesting strategies for successful writing and tips on how to avoid errors.

85% said the session improved their skills or awareness in cognitive abilities

“Very well explained and good use of examples.”

“It was incredibly useful! She brought papers from her students to show us different ways of publishing results.”

Skills:

A1 A2 C1 D1 D3

Tue 16 May 2017 13:00 – 14:00 DENT LTE

Dr Simon Cockell, Head of the Bioinformatics Support Unit


Writing for Publication and the Publication Process

A member of staff from the Writing Development Centre will deliver this workshop, which aims to support you as you approach publishing your work: understanding the process, making key

decisions and managing your writing. We will discuss how to handle communication with editors, peer reviewers and co-authors, and identify some of the differences in writing style between writing as a student and writing as a peer.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness in Communication and dissemination (D2)

“I learnt a lot of new information about the publication process.”

“Covered a broad range of topics in association with publishing”

Skills:

A1 C1 C2 D1 D2

Fri 26 May 2017 10:00 – 11:00 DENT LTF

MRes Support For most training and development MRes students are treated identically to PhD students and they are encouraged to attend any training sessions they see as applicable to their broader development. A few sessions are specifically aimed at MRes students to support the needs of their course work.

Writing Examination Essays Run jointly by the Writing Development Centre and MRes Team this session aims to help students gain a better understanding of markers’ expectations of essay-based answers. It also offers guidance on how to prepare for essay-based exams, how to structure an essay, and how to write clearly and concisely.

“This was a really good session; it was clear and kept me listening”

“We were given helpful tips on how to prepare for exams”

Skills:

A1 A3 D2

Mon 12 Dec 2016 12.00 – 13.00 DENT.LTC

Dissertation Writing for Students on the MRes The Writing Development Centre delivers this workshop, which explores the dissertation process, from the planning stage to final editing and proofreading. We will examine the sections of the dissertation in detail and work on common areas of difficulty, such as writing the introduction and literature review, presenting and discussing results, and writing a conclusion. We will also consider the features of good abstracts and academic writing style. Questions about the appropriate use of reading sources are also addressed.


“Never thought about writing in this way… will definitely change the way I write and plan. Academic phrase book is gold!”

“Helped me to frame the dissertation in my head a bit better and have a better understanding of the task.”

Skills:

A1 D2

Thu 08 June 2017 12.00 – 13.30 David Shaw LT

PhD Interviews Masters students who are applying for PhD positions might be wondering what to expect in the interview and what they should emphasise to impress. Dr Lorna Dargan and a panel of academics will provide guidance on what to expect and how best to prepare.

83% said the session improved their skills or awareness of self-management (B2)

“Contained valuable information on how the interviewers make their assessment and what they expect from you”

Skills:

B1 B2 B3

Tue 31 January 2017 11.00 – 12.00 FMS Graduate Training

Poster Presentations - Practical Advice (MRes only)

Prof David Young and Mrs Sue Vecsey oversee this supervised self-directed study session, which gives researchers the chance to evaluate poster templates and offers tips on how they can improve their own designs. This is a particularly valuable session for students with a partly designed poster or who have a poster they would like to improve.


“The advice given was very useful and really helped improving my poster”

Skills:

A1 A3 D2

Mon 03 July 2017 10.00 – 12.00 POOL Cluster

Career and Personal Development The Graduate School works extensively with the University’s awarding-winning Careers Service to offer a range of support tailored to the needs of postgraduate researchers. This includes one-to-one advice from Dr Lorna Dargan who has experience in a post-doctoral research role as well having a great knowledge and experience in providing careers advice in a variety of areas.

One-to-one advice is available without appointment at any stage, so please take the opportunity to get advice early - it may help shape your activity, help you make appropriate contacts for the future or assure you that you’re on the right track.

The Careers Service also provides a network of graduates, a database of over 600 North East employers and an enterprise unit that can support researchers with Intellectual Property queries relating to their research or beyond it. They can also advise on new company start-up.

Check the Careers Service website www.ncl.ac.uk/careers for further information or email [email protected]

Level 1, King’s Gate Building. Drop-in hours are 10.00am-4.30pm Mon-Fri (except during student vacations, when drop-in is from 11.00am-3.00pm)

Making a Successful Career Move In this session Dr Lorna Dargan will introduce two doctoral graduates who have moved into a new career outside of academic research. They will discuss their decision to transition to a new career, the value that research experience has in other roles and the implications of differences in culture and expectation.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness of professional and career development (B3)

“Very engaging and open workshop which provided a platform to really think about my own personal careers needs”

“Lorna is one of the best and most engaging speakers I have ever heard”

Skills:

B1 B2 B3

Tue 04 April 2017 14.00 – 16.00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Career Pathways in Clinical Research This session is delivered by the NIHR Newcastle Training School and is relevant to medically-qualified individuals currently in clinical training. In this session Dr James Frith, NIHR Clinician Scientist and BRC Training Lead, will discuss the key stages in the NIHR academic training pathway, and how to maximise opportunities for success. As the session will be informal numbers will be restricted, but sessions will run regularly over the year.


“This session was extremely informative, all questions were answered regardless of career stage and path”

Skills:

B2 B3 C3

Fri 04 November 2016 10.00 – 12.00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

How to Write an Effective CV and Covering Letter What are employers looking for? How do you demonstrate that you meet these criteria and can successfully apply your skills in a new role in or beyond academia? Whatever your career intentions, this interactive session aims to improve your ability to effectively market your research.

Prerequisites: Participants should bring a basic CV. This does not need to be perfect as advice will be provided.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness of personal qualities (B1)

“We were provided with a very useful breakdown of the CV”

“Incredibly useful interactive discussion”

Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C1

Thur 08 Dec 2016 10.00 – 12.00 Devonshire G21

Wed 18 Jan 2017 10.00 – 12.00 MED L2.6

Thur 07 Mar 2017 10.00 – 12.00 Kings Gate 1.20

Tue 09 May 2017 10.00 – 12.00 Daysh Doctoral Training Suite

Getting ‘that’ first postdoc position

A researcher’s first postdoc position can often be career defining. It is important to make a careful and informed choice about the postdocs on offer. Prof Anthony Moorman offers advice on possible routes into an academic role and the perspective of an academic involved in recruiting researchers.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness of professional and career development.

“Nice overview of the ‘pathways’ open to successful PhD students.”

“It was very useful to get the perspective from someone who has been in a post-doc position themselves.”

Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C3

Wed 18 Jan 2017 13.00 – 14.00 FMS Graduate Training Suite


How to succeed at Interview How do you make the right impression, answer questions effectively and make the most of your experience to convince an interviewer you are the best candidate for the job? In this interactive session Careers Service staff cover all aspects of the interview process including preparation, interview styles and formats and typical questions.


“Lorna gave us plenty of opportunities to ask questions about specific things in interviews that might concern us.”

“Really useful to have an opportunity to practice answering interview questions.”

Skills:

A1 B1 B2 B3 C1

Tue 25 Oct 2016 10.00 – 12.00 Kings Gate 1.26

Tue 28 Feb 2017 10.00 – 12.00 Herschel Learning Lab

Tue 11 Apr 2017 10.00 – 12.00 MED L2.2 / L2.3

Tue 23 May 2017 10.00 – 12.00 Daysh Doctoral Training Suite

Applying for Fellowships

Prof Deborah Henderson and Prof Melissa Bateson present this session which will be appropriate for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers thinking of applying for a non-clinical Fellowship from a Research Council or medical charity.

The session will cover what the funding bodies are looking for in prospective Fellows and what support is available to applicants from the Faculty.

PhD students interested in fellowships are advised to attend in their penultimate year to allow appropriate time for putting together an application.


“Plenty of information presented in a timely manner. The Q and A sessions were nice and honest.”

“This was a very well run session, which I would advise all late PhD and early postdocs to attend.”

Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C3

Wed 19 April 2017 11.00 – 13.00 Baddiley-Clark Seminar Room

NIHR Funding for Early Career Research Dr Dawn Biram from the NIHR Trainee Coordinating Centre offers advice on the funding opportunities available for researchers continuing along a research career pathway. She will cover the personal awards that will be of interest to you at post-doctoral level, including eligibility, the application process and tips for a successful application.


“Useful information covered and clearly communicated”

Skills:

A1 C1

Thu 20 April 2017 12.00 – 14.00 Venue TBC

Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a personality questionnaire that is designed to help the user gain a better understanding of themselves and others in order to work more productively, improve personal and professional relationships and facilitate career development.

Pre-requisite: Researchers booking the session must complete a questionnaire in person at the Careers Service before attending the session.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness of working with others

Skills:

B1 B2 B3 C1 D1

Tue 13 Dec 2016 09.30 – 12.30 Kings Gate 1.26

Tue 14 Mar 2017 09.30 – 12.30 Kings Gate 1.26

Tue 13 Jun 2017 09.30 – 12.30 Kings Gate 1.26

Recognising and building your resilience to the rigours of research

Working at the cutting edge of knowledge can be intrinsically difficult. Researchers are likely to face many challenges and setbacks. Yet resilience and fortitude are not always attributes associated with researchers. In this session Michael Atkinson and Richy Hetherington investigate how researchers deal with the challenges they face and reflect positively on their experience. The session opens potential routes to develop and improve your resilience through techniques such as mindfulness.

100% said the session improved their skills or awareness in personal qualities (B1)

“Workshops like this can help researchers put things into perspective and improve the way they deal with challenges and obstacles.”

“It was interesting to hear how other people build their resilience and cope with difficult periods in their projects”

Skills:

B1 B2 D1

Wed 15 March 2017 14.00 – 16.00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Beyond the Viva – Practical Advice Faculty Careers Adviser Dr Lorna Dargan provides guidance for research students as they come to the end of their degree. This session will provide signposting for overseas students wishing to stay in the UK, as well as careers perspectives for all students. There will be some discussion of internships and temporary contracts in the competitive employment market.


Skills:

B2 B3 C3

Thu 27 April 2017 13:00 – 14:00 DENT LTD

How to Maximise your Research Impact Would you like to know more about research impact? Are you interested in knowing more about how to maximise the impact of your research? This session is delivered by the NIHR Newcastle Training School and during this practical session, facilitated by Faculty Research Impact Officer Dr Pauline Addis, you will learn about the different types of impact, how to gather evidence, and the importance of planning and engagement.


Skills:

B1 B2 C1 C2 D1 D2 D3

Thu 06 October 2016 13.00 – 14.00 FMS Graduate Training Suite

Considering the Effect of Research Success As a researcher it is vital to determine a vision for you and your research and also be responsible about the impact it can have. ‘Evidence Modelling’ is a technique based on the research of Marshall McLuhan and can help you consider the full implications of your research and how to maximise the impact of your work.

86% said the session improved their skills or awareness of cognitive abilities

“I liked that this course was interactive”

“Allowed me time to think about and evaluate my research goals”

Skills:

A3 B2 B3 C2 D1 D2 D3

Thu 08 June 2017 14.00 – 16.00 Ridley 2, 1.58

Understanding the Doctorate Extension Scheme For PhD students on a Tier 4 visa who would like to stay in the UK after their course ends. If you are currently studying for a PhD on a Tier 4 visa, you can apply for the Doctorate Extension Scheme to stay in the UK for 12 months after your course has ended.

You can use the 12 months to gain further experience in your chosen field, seek skilled work, or develop plans to set up as an entrepreneur. Come to this workshop to find out more about how this visa extension works and how you can apply for it before your PhD comes to an end.

Skills:

B2 B3 C3

Tue 11 Oct 2016 13:00 – 14:00 King’s Gate 1.26

Mon 12 Dec 2016 13:00 – 14:00 King’s Gate 1.26

Thu 09 Feb2017 13:00 – 14:00 King’s Gate 1.26

Wed 15 Feb 2017 13:00 – 14:00 King’s Gate 1.26

Immigration routes into graduate employment for international students Immigration routes open to International graduates are subject to frequent changes. This workshop, run by the Visa Team and the Careers Service, looks at the concessions open to International graduates under the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur, Tier 2 graduate and Tier 5 routes and gives a brief overview of the rules as well as the application process. The workshop will also highlight the resources and support available from the Careers Service to enable you to make the most of these opportunities.

If you are attending, you must arrive promptly for a 1pm start and stay for the duration of the workshop.

Skills:

B2 B3 C3

Wed 19 Oct 2016 13:00 – 14:00 King’s Gate 1.26

Wed 16 Nov 2016 13:00 – 14:00 King’s Gate 1.20

Tue 13 Dec 2016 13:00 – 14:00 King’s Gate 1.26

Wed 25 January 2016 13:00 – 14:00 King’s Gate 1.26


LUNCHTIME MINDFULNESS SESSIONSA series of introductory mindfulness sessions

These sessions are designed to introduce participants to a range of mindfulness practices they may find helpful in their everyday lives, at work and at home; practices that may help them to find ways to reduce stress and develop a better sense of well-being.

The sessions are open to everyone, with or without prior experience of meditation, and are designed so that people can dip in and out if they wish to.

The sessions will run weekly throughout the academic year.The sessions will be led by Michael Atkinson.

All sessions are held in FMS Graduate Training Suite.Book at http://workshops.ncl.ac.uk

Domain D

Engagement, influence and impact

The knowledge and skills to work with others and ensure

the wider impact of research.

Research governance and organisation

The knowledge of the standards, requirements

and professionalism to do research.

Knowledge and intellectual abilities

The knowledge, intellectual abilities and techniques to do research.

Personal effectiveness

The personal qualities and approach to be an effective researcher.

Professional and

career development

(B3)

Working with others

(D1)

Self-m

anag

emen

t

(B2)

Comm

unicatio

n and

dissem

inatio

n

(D2)

Per

sona

l qua

litie

s (B

1)

Eng

agem

ent

an

d im

pact

(D

3)

Finance, funding and resources (C3)

Knowledge base (A1)

Research

managem

ent

(C2)

Cognitive abilities

(A2)

Professional

conduct

(C1)

Creativity

(A3)

Domain A

Domain C Domain B

Researcher Development Framework The Researcher Development Framework (RDF) is a major new approach to researcher development, to enhance our capacity to build the UK workforce, develop world-class researchers and build our research base. The RDF is a professional development framework for planning, promoting and supporting the personal, professional and career development of researchers in higher education. It articulates the knowledge, behaviours and attributes of successful researchers and encourages them to realise their potential.

The Researcher Development Framework (RDF) summarises the knowledge, behaviours and attributes of effective and highly skilled researchers in a useful format for policymakers and research organisations who are planning the support and development of researchers in higher education.

The RDF is structured in four domains, which encompass what researchers need to know to do research, how to be effective in their

approach to research, when working with others, and in contributing to the wider environment. Within each of the domains are three sub-domains and associated descriptors, which describe different aspects of being a researcher.The Researcher Development Statement (RDS) is the evolution of the Research Councils’ Joint Skills Statement (JSS) and replaces the JSS as the key reference statement for policy makers and research organisations that provide personal, professional and career development for postgraduate researchers and research staff employed in higher education.

The Researcher Development Statement is derived from the Researcher Development Framework (RDF), a major new approach to researcher development, which aims to enhance our capacity to build the UK workforce, develop world-class researchers and build our research base.

For further details see: http://www.vitae.ac.uk/policy-practice/234301/Researcher-Development-Framework.html

EXHIBITION PARK

LEASES PARK

PARK TERRACEFRAMLINGTON PLACE

RICHARDSON ROAD

QU

EEN

VIC

TOR

IA R

OAD

CLAREMONT ROAD

F

10

G

15

I

HAYMARKET

ST MARY’S PL

NEWCASTLE UNIVERSITY

GREAT NORTH MUSEUM

GR

EAT

NO

RTH

RD

A167

(M)

A167

(M)

H

16

A Medical School Catherine Cookson Building

B Dental SchoolC Leech BuildingD Ridley Building 2E Old Library BuildingF Ridley Building 1G Baddiley Clark Building 1H Kings GateI Devonshire Building

WESTGATE RDARTHUR’S

HILL

CAMPUSFOR AGEING& VITALITY

Win

grov

e R

d

Hadrian Rd

Brig

hton

Gro

ve

16

1 Medical School main entrance, First floor David Shaw Lt. & Med School Foyer2 Dental Lecture theatres DENT LTC, LTD, LTE, LTF, RB Green 3 Medical School Boardroom and Ridley Social Space 4 FMS Graduate Training Suite (formally Postgrad Common Room) / FELL & PASS Computer Clusters5 Lift and stairs to Walton Library 5th Floor, DENE, LINN and GLEN clusters 6 Lift and stairs to Leech Building rooms, 2nd floor L2.2 - L2.8, 3rd floor L3.1, 4th floor L4.2 and L4.4 7 Ridley Building 2 Lecture theatre 1.63 seminar rooms 1.58, 1.59 etc 8 Research Beehive 2.20, 2.21 and 2.22 9 Daysh Building, HaSS training Suite 10 Graduate School Office, 3rd Floor, Rid 1.2.04 (2nd Floor) 11 Alnwick and Bamburgh rooms, Kings Road Centre 12 POOL Cluster13 Newcastle Civic Centre (NEPG) and Great Gable14 Conference Room, Centre for Aging and Vitality (NIHR)15 Baddiley Clark Seminar Room16 The Core

Medical Sciences Graduate School,Newcastle University, NE2 4HH

T: 0191 208 7002E: [email protected]/fms/postgrad