About the Programme
The Researcher Development Programme (RDP) at Ulster is a comprehensive programme of skills development designed to support the professional and personal development of our PhD Researchers through workshops, events and networking opportunities.
It is an exciting and inclusive programme facilitated by Ulster academic staff, external contributors and PhD graduates from Ulster.
The programme aims to enhance the overall research experience, improve academic outcomes, and prepare PhD Researchers for successful careers both within and outside academia.
It is informed by and aligned to the Vitae Researcher Development Framework (2025)
Pillars of the Researcher Development Programme for Postgraduate Researchers
Research Skills
Workshops focused on research knowledge and skills including research methodologies, research management, open research, data analysis, and technical research competencies.
Writing Skills
Workshops and events dedicated to academic and research writing.
Communication and Engagement
Workshops focused on presenting research, public engagement and impact, publishing, research dissemination and external communication.
Career Development
Workshops focused on career planning, job applications, and professional development.
Transferable Skills
Workshops developing broader professional and personal skills applicable beyond academia.
The PhD Process
Workshops specifically related to managing and progressing through the PhD journey.
Structure and Delivery
The Researcher Development Programme at Ulster is aligned to six pillars of skills development for a PhD Researcher. These skills are informed by and aligned to the sector-leading Researcher Development Framework (Vitae, 2025) which is a widely recognised and utilised approach to researcher development.
This Framework articulates the knowledge, skills and behaviours of effective researchers. It supports the UKRI Statement of Expectations for Doctoral Training and aids the implementation of the New Deal for Postgraduate Research, the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers, the UK Quality Code for Research Degrees and aligns with the European Charter for Researchers.
RDP Handbook
Full details of the Researcher Development Programme including descriptions of workshops, booking information and how we evaluate the programme are in the Handbook.
How much training do I need to undertake?
If you are registered as a full time PhD Researcher, you should aim to undertake the equivalent of 10 days per year in researcher development activities (five days per year for part-time).
