Since masters-level research training programmes do not typically have space to deal comprehensively with broader aspects of research methodology or with the generic and transferable skills specified in the ESRC guidelines, this provision is supplemented on a cohort-wide basis by a central suite of training designed to ensure equivalent exposure for all students, regardless of programme structure. Core aspects of this are provided via an extended DTP induction programme that takes place over the first term of the funding period. 

The mandatory programme consists of 10 three-hour face-to-face sessions (i.e. equivalent to a full module), held weekly, with each session offered twice, on Tuesday morning and Wednesday afternoon, to allow students to choose the time that best fits their other training and research activities, while also accommodating part-time students and those with childcare responsibilities. Delivery involves staff from across DTP institutions, and each session typically involves preparatory work and substantial practical and discursive elements to promote debate. This programme provides an important early focus for cohort building and cross-disciplinary exchange during the first term.

The programme focuses on the four pillars of ESRC training: A: Project Management & Design; B: Data Collection; C: Data Analysis; D: Dissemination

The topics covered in ‘Foundations of Research in Practice’ are:

• Understanding different epistemological positions (A)
• Managing your research project (A)
• Information and digital literacies for research (A/D)
• Research ethics and risk (A/B)
• Decolonising your research (A/B/C/D)
• Reliability and validity in qualitative and mixed-methods research (B/C)
• Reliability and validity in quantitative research (B/C)
• AI in social research (A/B/C/D)
• Research engagement and impact (A/D)
• Personal development and wellbeing: PhD and beyond (A/D)

• Bloomsbury Postgraduate Skills Network
• Advanced training via the Research Capability Hub (RCH) and the National Centre for Research Methods (NCRM)
• UCL Entrepreneurship training for doctoral and early career researchers (available to all UBEL students)

UBEL will also circulate relevant training opportunities for DTP-funded students by email as they arise.

If any training needs are identified during your Development Needs Analysis that cannot be met within your institution, the DTP will try to facilitate access to specialised training elsewhere within the partnership or beyond. If you have any queries, please contact the UBEL DTP Training Lead: Dr Yenn Lee.

Whatever your career path will be eventually, it is a good idea to start thinking about your next steps early. There are various sources of support that will help you clarify your career choices, tailor your applications and develop transferable skills. 

The support available ranges from one-to-one consultations to workshops and employer events across the UBEL DTP institutions, some of which have a specialised provision for research students and postdoctoral researchers: 

• UCL Careers  
• LSHTM Careers  
• SOAS Careers  
• Birkbeck Careers  
• University of East London Careers 
• University of Greenwich Careers

For studentships starting from October 2024, Research in Practice has been introduced as a core component for all ESRC-funded students. One component of this is that all ESRC-funded students should have the opportunity to complete a high-quality placement in academia, policy, business or civil society organisations as part of their training. Students who do not undertake a placement will not receive the additional three months of funding. UBEL will provide further information about placements at the induction.

Students can arrange their own placement or apply to opportunities circulated by UBEL. 

You can find out more information about UBEL DTP placements here.