Civil and Environmental Engineering students working
Civil and Environmental Engineering students working

UWL's ECR Network: promoting collaboration among early career researchers

Intro

The University of West London has established a dedicated network to support its early career researchers (ECRs). The ECR Network is now gaining momentum under the direction of its coordinator, Lecturer in Civil Engineering Dr Livia Lantini. She also leads the School of Computing and Engineering's ECR Group.

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Designed to create an inclusive and collaborative community for emerging researchers, the ECR Network began with the formation of the SCE ECR Group. It provides a platform for researchers to explore ground-breaking ideas, exchange knowledge and engage in practical discussions. The Network offers them activities including monthly meetings and seminars.

Early career researchers, postdoctoral research fellows and newly appointed lecturers from Computing and Engineering have immensely benefited from collective discussions. It is a space where fresh ideas develop, and we have even welcomed speakers from outside our School to share their experiences, especially regarding the intricacies of grant applications,"

Dr Lantini explains.

Inspired by SCE's ECR Group's success, the ECR Network is poised to expand. The School of Human and Social Sciences, the College of Nursing, Midwifery and Healthcare and the London School of Film, Media and Design are all establishing their own ECR groups within the Network. More Schools are expected to follow.

The University has a wealth of experienced researchers and professors, but the new generation also holds immense potential. We want to empower them to reach their peak via a community that offers resources, mentoring and moral support from their experienced colleagues,"

Livia adds.

The ECR Network is planning global events for Schools to network and explore common interests, fostering an environment for collaboration and interdisciplinary research. An annual event, like the UWL Doctoral Conference, will also present work within the academic community.

Alongside the ECR Network, the University has launched an Early Career Impact Research Grant, offering vital support to early career researchers in their research endeavours. Worth up to £50,000, the grant offers support for research periods of up to 24 months. Applications for the grant are open until Friday 17 November 2023.

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