The scheme
The RSA buddy scheme offers University of Liverpool research staff and research fellows the chance to meet new colleagues, expand their networks and enrich their experience of the University’s research culture in an informal setting.
The Buddy Scheme is a great opportunity for research staff and fellows to meet peers at similar career stages across the faculties of Health and Life Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Science and Engineering.
It is also a fantastic way to build connections outside your research group and enhance your professional, research and social frames of reference.
Who is eligible to apply?
All research staff (i.e. staff on research-only contracts) are eligible to apply for this scheme.
All research fellows (in this instance fellows are broadly defined as individuals who spend the majority of their time conducting their own research via independent funding that they have obtained themselves from internal or external sources; for example, UKRI Future Leader Fellows, University of Liverpool Research Fellows, Royal Society University Research Fellowships, etc.)
How it works
To take part in the RSA Buddy Scheme, you will be asked to complete a simple form to express your interest where we’ll ask your name, department, email address and why you want to participate in the Buddy Scheme. Then you will be matched with two to three other research staff or fellow mentors.
We will let you know by email who you have been matched with and provide email addresses to contact one another.
You and your buddies will have three weeks to organise your first meeting.
- These may take place face to face or online depending on changing restrictions and University guidance. Please respect the preferences of all participants to ensure everyone is included and able to participate fully.
- We suggest a short meeting of between 20-30 minutes.
- The topics of conversation are up to you, and the tone should be informal, supportive and respectful of everyone.
We will contact you by email with a survey for your feedback on the scheme.
Timings
Round 5 of the Buddy Scheme is now closed for applications. Round 6 will run in March 2026.
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PGR-Postdoc Buddy Scheme The RSA are also lead buddies on the PGR-Postdoc Buddy Scheme, which runs annually in October-November. This scheme is a great opportunity for research staff to support the wider researcher community and lead PGR buddy groups, and a chance for PGRs to hear about the experiences of their peers and postdocs at University of Liverpool. |
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Privacy
The data that you provide will be stored securely for one year, and used only to match you to other researchers for participation in the RSA buddy scheme. By completing this form you agree that we will process your data in line with University of Liverpool's privacy policy.
Reports
Download and read the RSA Buddy Scheme Report from the 1st round.
Download and read the RSA Buddy Scheme Report from the 2nd round.
Download and read the RSA Buddy Scheme Report from the 3rd round.
Download and read the RSA Buddy Scheme Report from the 4th round.
What people have said
It was so refreshing to hear the research interests of my buddies and the steps they have taken to get to where they are in their career, which was miles away from the people I typically interact with on a day to day basis.
The highlight was that this scheme not only allows researchers to meet in an informal environment but allows also to build collaborations.
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