Early career researchers

Who is an early career researcher?

We automatically include fixed-term researchers (who started in the last seven years at Surrey) and probationary academics, and we invite teaching fellows and others to opt in. We are happy to include anyone else who feels they are an early career researcher in the academic setting. Please come and talk to us if you have any queries around your eligibility or whether the programme of events for early careers researchers fits with your requirements.

HR Excellence in Research 

The University of Surrey is a proud participant in the HR Excellence in Research initiative and has held this prestigious badge since January 2012. HR Excellence in Research recognises the University of Surrey’s commitment to the Principles of the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers and the European Charter and Code for Researchers.

We are committed to supporting ECRs with the transition stages of their career, whether that is to another fixed-term contract, a new role at Surrey or in a different Higher Education Institution, or to move to other sectors of employment outside of academia. Read more about the University's ongoing commitment to the initiative.

Talent management and skills development for early career researchers

There are a wide variety of opportunities to develop your research and professional skills sets, and to help you secure another position following the end of your contract with Surrey. This position may be with Surrey, in Higher Education, in industry, or other sectors; all researchers will be supported in the transition to the next step in their career. Many opportunities are available, but it is up to you to take them. All that we ask is that you make an active decision. We want to make sure that every early career researcher is aware of the support and opportunities available, and is encouraged to engage with development activities that are relevant and useful to them.