Research Skills: Continuing Professional Development

An excellent researcher at doctoral or PhD level:

• Appreciates the need for and shows commitment to continuing professional development.
• Recognises transferability of own experience and articulates this to potential employers or line managers.
• Develops and maintains own records of achievement and experience.

Looking ahead, a doctoral student can aim to become an excellent early-career researcher who:

• Demonstrates self-awareness and the ability to identify own development needs. 
• Becomes familiar with employers’ requirements and develops skills accordingly.
• Actively seeks opportunities to enhance skills and take responsibility, formally or informally within a research environment.
• Maintains a portfolio of achievement and experience.

Note: These skills are identified in the UK Researcher Development Framework – where they appear as B3.2 Self-management: Continuing professional development