Researcher Development Programme 2025-2026
The table below displays all of the sessions on the Academy’s central Researcher Development Programme by month. Use the links contained in the table to book onto a session.
The 2025-26 programme has been co-created with researchers based on their needs and aligns to the university strategy, Liverpool 2031, to deliver sector-leading support for the development of research talent. The events are designed to enhance valuable researcher skills and knowledge in topics including writing, publication strategies, supervision, interdisciplinary collaboration, working with industry, engaging with the media, and more.
Whether you’re looking to develop your own practice, meet other researchers, find the time to write or learn more about research across the university, our seminars, workshops, buddy schemes, writing retreats, competitions, conferences and coffee mornings are here for you.
In line with the University’s values, we’re proud of this year’s ambitious programme and through our collaboration with the Research Staff Association we’re confident that the programme puts your needs first, supporting innovative research and an inclusive research community.
Opportunities to celebrate research and researchers
Images of Research Photography Competition 2025
The Images of Research competition was held over the autumn of 2025, providing an opportunity for researchers to showcase their research through a compelling image that captures the essence, impact, or story behind your work. Entries closed on Friday, 14 November 2025.
You can now view all the submissions and vote for your favourite here.
Celebrating Researchers 2025
This celebration is an opportunity to show your appreciation for researchers who make working at Liverpool even better. Anyone can submit a nomination for a member of research staff (e.g. postdocs, research fellows, research assistants) who they feel has gone the extra mile. They can also be nominated for one of the two Champion prizes!
Nominations for 2025 have closed. Further information about Celebrating Researchers, as well as the two Champions and all the nominations can be found here.
Research Staff Conference 2025
The Research Staff Conference 2025 was organised by the Researcher Development & Culture Team, working in collaboration with the Research Staff Association and took place on Wednesday, 3 December, 9.30am-4.30pm.
The conference theme was Beyond Boundaries: Developing an Interdisciplinary Mindset and it provided an opportunity for researchers to develop their skills working with those from other disciplines both within and beyond academia. The theme is supported by senior leaders and directly aligns with the university strategy, Liverpool 2031, supporting the ambitions of our researchers to develop innovative and inclusive collaborations.
The conference was aimed at a wide researcher audience and will be of interest and relevance to the broad disciplinary range of our research community, and those at all career stages. You can find out more about the conference and watch recordings from the day here.
RSA Buddy Scheme
Spring 2026 will see the RSA Buddy Scheme return, providing an opportunity for research staff to meet new colleagues, expand their networks and enrich their experience of the University’s research culture in an informal setting.
Expressions of Interest for Round 6 of the scheme will open 9-27 February 2026, with the scheme itself running from 9-27 March 2026. Find out more information about the scheme here.