Recently both traditional and social media have been full of coverage of the US government’s cancelling of various ‘DEI’ initiatives, much of this targeted at and impacting higher education. For the University of York and for YGRS, questions of equity, diversity and inclusion remain important. We are actively engaged in a range of work in this area focusing on PGRs, including projects such as the Yorkshire Consortium for Equity in Doctoral Education (YCEDE) and Generation Research. 

We certainly don’t, and won’t, always get things right in this area. But in troubling times it is important that we restate our commitment to values of both excellence and equity.

You may have seen the recent UKRI announcement of an increase to stipend levels for students they fund. From 2025/26, annual full-time stipends will see an uplift of 8% to £20,780. I’m very pleased to report that this increase will also apply to PGRs who hold a University of York studentship where the current level is matched to UKRI rates.

It’s always a privilege and a thrill to meet you and to learn about the exciting research you are doing:

Finally, while postgraduate research carries on when our undergraduate and taught postgraduate classes are paused, please remember that there is a spring break for a reason! Do enjoy some rest and relaxation time during this period, and maybe even some chocolate.

Best wishes,
Paul

We’re keen to make sure our postgraduate researchers (PGRs) have the best possible experience. To do this, we need to know what you think works well and what we could do better. Please complete the Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES) before it closes on 2 May 2025.

Self-funded PGRs can apply to the YGRS Conference Fund to attend UK and international conferences when other funding options have been exhausted. The next application deadline is 1 May 2025. 

The University has offered free essential printing services in the past. However, printed dissertations and theses are no longer required by the University and so funding for thesis printing will cease from 31 July 2025.

For changes in opening times and availability of services, see our information about student support over the Easter break. 

For the first time, the UKCGE Annual Conference will feature a precursor ‘The Hidden Lives of PGRs’ event on 2 July 2025  by-PGRs-for-PGRs. It will highlight the hidden learning inherent in the doctorate, and support the sharing of valuable ‘on the job’ insights from PGRS from HEIs across the country.

The EDI Research Centre is supporting the development of an Intersectionality Research network to bring together staff and students who research on intersectional identities or who have a keen interest in engaging in this research. Sign up to express your interest in joining the network.

The following opportunities from YCEDE are aimed at ethnically minoritised PGRs with UK home fee status:

A final reminder that the call for submissions for this year’s Open Research Awards is open until 12 noon on 28 April 2025. We are offering three £400 prizes (one per faculty) for submissions from postgraduate researchers. Read more about the Awards and submit your work for consideration.

The latest issue of the Open Research newsletter is now available, including new case studies, event announcements and further updates on open research activities at the University of York and beyond. Read all previous issues of the newsletter and subscribe on the Open Research at York wiki.

You can play a part in important research taking place right here at York by completing our SWANS survey into student wellbeing, coordinated by York PGR, Paul Heron. By letting us know in the survey how you have been feeling over the past couple of weeks, you’ll contribute to much-needed research into student wellbeing so that we can develop effective strategies to support students.

Are you interested in developing a supervisor’s toolkit to help tackle sexual harassment and bullying? The Department of Education is looking for racially minoritised (BAME) PGRs to take part in a toolkit co-production workshop in May. You’ll receive a £20 voucher for your time. Email educ650@york.ac.uk for more information.

The Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Research Centre is seeking three student inclusivity influencers. Application deadline TODAY (11 April 2025)

Join international alumni at this Q&A panel event to find out about their post-graduation job search, what they gained from their time at York, and advice for current students preparing to enter the job market.

Join our Post Study Visa Options event to find out about UK visas available after your PhD, including the Graduate visa and Skills Worker visa, and how to maximise your chances of finding work in the UK.

Our Working in Research panel Q&A event chaired by Paul Wakeling, Dean of YGRS, followed by networking, will help you gain an insight into a range of research-based roles in sectors such as academia, public sector, industry and commercial. Details of panelists will be published on Handshake closer to the event, but all have postgraduate qualifications.

See any current Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) teaching opportunities on Handshake.

If you're planning to teach as a GTA at York, you need to complete Introduction to Teaching and Learning training first. There are three different workshops; you should complete the one recommended by your department. For any queries, please contact the Academic Practice Team: academic-practice@york.ac.uk.

You decided! See the outcome of the York SU Sabbatical Officer elections to find out who will be representing you next academic year. Your new Officer team will take up their roles over the summer, but in the meantime your current Sabbs will continue to work and advocate for you in every area of student life.

The Last Showgirl: Pamela Anderson is perfectly cast in this intimate portrait of womanhood - Daisy McManaman (Centre for Women's Studies)

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