PGR Developer

The University of Strathclyde is a research-intensive institution and is committed to delivering internationally leading research and an outstanding student experience. To meet our ambitious targets in postgraduate researcher (PGR) growth, the University has developed specialised and tailored professional development provision specifically for our PGR population, both to enhance their experience and success during their time at Strathclyde but also to support their career aspirations as research leaders of the future. 

The University is seeking an engaging and dynamic PGR Developer to join the PGR Enhancement and Development Team, within the Education Enhancement Directorate, at the University of Strathclyde. 

The PGR Enhancement and Development Team is central to the delivery of:

1.     The Researcher Development Programme (RDP) –  open to all postgraduate research students across the University with its purpose to support their development as key contributors to our research activity and outputs, and to provide opportunities for them to learn and develop the skills to achieve their career aspirations regardless of their chosen path. The programme consists of over 60 internal and externally delivered courses providing over 2400 places to over 1600 PhD students across the University. 

2.     The PG Cert in Researcher Professional Development (PGCert RPD) – unique to Strathclyde, the PG Cert RPD is a credit bearing academic award that recognises and rewards the wide array of skills and experiences that postgraduate research students develop during their PhD research. 

3.     A diverse range of community enhancing activities including, but not limited to - induction, coffee mornings, alumni panel sessions, and a family network. This work is informed by the PGR student voice, including through the Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES).

4.     Reporting to the Deputy Head of PGR Enhancement and Development, the PGR Developerwill play a key role in shaping, reviewing and enhancing researcher development provision, ensuring it remains innovative, inclusive and aligned with institutional priorities and the evolving needs of postgraduate researchers.

By working collaboratively with cross-University teams including, all four academic Faculties, Centres for Doctoral Training, the Organisational & Staff Development Unit (OSDU), and the Careers Service, the post-holder will contribute to the design and development of high-quality programmes and initiatives. While some targeted delivery may be required, the primary emphasis of the role is on programme development, enhancement, and impact. This will include budget tracking, evaluation monitoring, and process enhancement. 

The post-holder will also be expected to work closely with the Deputy Head of PGR Enhancement & Development to support a strategic review of the Postgraduate Certificate in Researcher Professional Development (PGCert RPD). This will include contribution to the review of delivery models, timetabling, assessment and administrative processes; liaison with contributing colleagues and services; and supporting evidence based enhancements to ensure the PG Cert RPD remains operationally robust, scalable and sector leading.

The ideal post-holder will have recent experience of engagement in a professional researcher development programme. Wider knowledge and experience of the researcher development landscape would be an advantage. Excellent organisational, project management and communication skills are essential, alongside the confidence to deliver training sessions to PGR students and liaise with colleagues at all levels across the institution. Experience in the design, delivery and facilitation of development activities in a research or learning environment, as well as through virtual learning environments (VLEs), is desirable. Being able to work effectively as part of a team is as important as being able to work independently in this role. The post-holder will be expected to use initiative to manage their own workload effectively, prioritising competing demands to ensure tight deadlines are met.