Here at the VAWG research network, we recognise the importance of supporting ECRs in their research journeys and are keen to foster a nurturing environment within which researcher welfare and development is paramount. 

What is the Researcher Development Network?

Our goal for this ECR specific network within our wider VAWG research network is to create a space centred upon the VAWG ECR experience; for ECRs to meet, collaborate and build relationships with others working in the field. Researching violence against women and girls can be lonely, so it’s particularly important for ECRs and PhD students to find solidarity with peers, to develop a support network, and find mentors who can provide guidance, advice and expertise. 

Who is an ‘Early Career Researcher (ECR)’?

Within our network, we define ECRs are those who:

• are conducting research at undergraduate or postgraduate level
• are within eight years of the award of their PhD or equivalent professional training
• is within six years of their first academic appointment (full-time or part-time)
• has conducted research outside academia for less than 10 years

Please note, these durations exclude any period of career break (e.g. for family care or health reasons).

We welcome those who are not sure whether they meet the above criteria to get in touch with us to confirm via vawgrn@mdx.ac.uk.

What’s our plan?

We are working hard to establish the ECR network and have a number of exciting projects lined up including the launch of an ECR network directory, a VAWGRN mentor/mentee scheme, workshops, events, and more! 

We recently held our first VAWG ECR Virtual Networking Event on 10/06/2021. It was wonderful to meet some of you informally and to share our research interests!

We will be hosting other events in the future so please keep an eye out for ECR event news in the VAWGRN newsletter and on the VAWGRN Twitter feed.

What’s that mean for you?

For you, joining the ECR network means access to resources, webinars, and a network of peers. We also provide opportunities to present your own research to our network members, facilitating conversations and collaborating with colleagues in the field. In addition, ECRs are also welcomed and encouraged to take part in the development of the wider VAWG research network, which provides skills and experience in coordination, organisation and event management that are excellent additions to ECR CVs.

If this sounds of interest to you, here’s how to join: