Becky Whear is a Research Fellow in the Evidence Synthesis Team. As part of her role as a researcher she co-chairs the Early Career Researcher network (ECRN) within the Department of Health and Community Sciences at the University of Exeter. In this blog post for the NIHR Your Path in Research campaign she tells us about the value of connection for early career researchers.
I have belonged to the Early Career Researcher network since it began in 2015. It’s always been a great place to meet other researchers, especially ones that I might not otherwise have met. It’s also been a good place to discuss challenges or frustrations, and in some cases we’ve been able to make a difference by highlighting issues to people who can help us to make changes. It’s always a friendly space to share time with others, have a drink or bite to eat, make connections, learn about new things and share in other activities like networking days or time in the St Luke’s volunteer garden.
Finding a path in research
I’ve been involved in research for nearly 20 years. After graduating from my MSc I got a temping job at the research and development unit at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. I saw some of the more administrative side of research (and teaching within the hospital) but I always wanted to do more hands-on research. I eventually got a job at Dartington Social Research Unit and have been in research ever since, starting with PenARC in 2009.
“Being part of the group can help individuals to navigate their research career pathway (and) share challenges and solutions.”
The ECRN is a great place to meet other early career researchers and learn more about what’s going on in the faculty. Being part of the group can help individuals to navigate their research career pathway, share challenges and solutions, feel part of a community outside the specifics of their research projects and improve their overall experience as researchers. It’s open to all PhD students, Postgraduates, Early Career Researchers and research facing professional service staff. Newly appointed members of staff and students are welcome to join at any time. We also provide regular feedback to the the University of Exeter Early Career Researcher Liaison Forum and communicate to the Heads of Research Groups meetings on Postgraduate and Early Career Researcher issues in the research environment.
“…find something that you believe in or are passionate about.”
How connecting can help you find your way
I think that if you are considering a career in research then find something that you believe in or are passionate about. Be prepared for rejection/uncertainty (whether it’s job roles, article submissions, or funding proposals) but never underestimate the influence of having good colleagues and taking the time to be with and listen to people – you never know what connections might be helpful in the future.
Finding out more about the ECRN at the University of Exeter or setting up one of your own
You can email Becky Whear, Sian De Bell or Bekkah Bernheim directly. Please get in touch if you would like to be included or have any questions about what we do. For more information about the ECR community at the University of Exeter, please see the ECR Hub.