Researcher Development Programme

For Postgraduate Research students.

What is the RDP?

The Researcher Development Programme (RDP) is designed to equip postgraduate researchers with a full range of skills which will improve their effectiveness as researchers, and ensure that they are not only highly qualified but employable in a variety of careers by the end of their research project.

At Kent, the Researcher Development Programme has been developed in line with the Researcher Development Framework (RDF).

Who is the RDP for and are there any compulsory workshops ?

The RDP is for all postgraduate research students. This includes full-time and part-time students and those studying a Master's by Research, MPhil or PhD. It is also pertinent for Early Career Researchers.

All new PhD students must attend the 'Kickstart your PhD' induction workshop and complete a Researcher Development Assessment (RDA). This online self-assessment encourages you to consider your existing portfolio of skills, as well as any skills you hope to gain while doing your doctoral research.

You can book 'Kickstart your PhD' and complete the assessment via our online booking system.

Being able to attend diverse workshops at the Graduate and Researcher College, has tremendously improved my skills in specific and general areas.

Why should I do it?

A PhD is an outstanding academic qualification but having a doctorate alone will not prepare you for your chosen career, whether in academia or beyond.

At Kent, we are committed to producing doctoral students and researchers who are experienced, highly skilled and employable. That's why it is important that while you are progressing your research, you also develop the skills you will need to succeed in your chosen career.

Which workshops can I attend?

All of our training falls under the four headings of the RDF:

Researcher: Values and Behaviours
Research: Knowledge and Practice
Research: Research management
Research: Engagement and impact
Research Communities: working with others