Opportunities for Doctoral Researchers

The Institute of Advanced Studies (IAS) is more than a hub for international fellows and research collaborations. It is also a welcoming and supportive space where Doctoral Researchers (DRs) can connect, develop, and actively contribute to a vibrant research community. Whether you are looking to expand your academic networks, strengthen your research profile, or explore future career pathways, IAS offers a range of opportunities for you to get involved.

Why get involved? 

At the IAS, doctoral researchers play a significant role in shaping the intellectual and social life. Engaging with the IAS can support you at different stages of your doctoral journey by helping you to: 

  • Build meaningful research networks 
    Connect with leading international scholars, visiting IAS Fellows, other DRs and colleagues across Loughborough University and beyond. 
  • Develop your research skills and academic confidence 
    Build knowledge and confidence in areas such as academic collaboration (both within your own discipline and across disciplines), research communication, and public engagement . 
  • Strengthen your career development 
    Gain practical guidance and support through PGR workshops, including publishing strategies, funding applications, and career pathways within and beyond academia. 
  • Become part of a supportive research community 
    Take part in regular coffee mornings, seminars, workshops, and other events that offer opportunities to share ideas, discuss your research, and learn from peers and scholars in a friendly, inclusive environment. 

What is available?

The IAS programmes provide flexible and inclusive opportunities for DRs to engage with research both within their own discipline and across interdisciplinary and international contexts. You are welcome to: 

  • Attend and engage with seminars, workshops, and discussions linked to Research Showcases, whether they align closely with your own discipline or expand beyond it.
  • Extend your disciplinary knowledge while also exploring interdisciplinary perspectives by learning from UK and international researchers and practitioners.
  • Engage with wider research conversations that connect academic research with societal, cultural, and policy contexts. 
  • Read more about the Research Showcase programme.

The IAS offers a range of regular, accessible activities that allow DRs to engage with and become part of the research community. You are welcome to:

  • Join IAS coffee mornings, held throughout the year, to meet current IAS Fellows as well as Loughboroughacademics , researchers, and other DRs in a relaxed and friendly environment. These sessions provide opportunities to have informal conversations, exchange ideas, and build professional networks.
  • Attend IAS seminars delivered by visiting Fellows, where you can learn about their research topics, engage with ideas both within and beyond your own discipline, and take part in academic discussion.
  • Participate in PGR workshops designed specifically for DRs and led by IAS Residential Fellows. These workshops focus on essential aspects of the doctoral and academic journey, such as publishing strategies, funding opportunities, academic career pathways, job applications, and transferable research skills, and more. 

The IAS Open Programme is now open to DRs! You can host an IAS Open Programme Fellow and learn how to:

  • Collaborate with international academics and researchers and share your work with a wider academic community. 
  • Engage with an international and interdisciplinary audience, expanding your network beyond your own discipline. 
  • Enhance your academic profile and CV, providing an excellent opportunity to establish international collaborations.
  • Read more about the Open Programme

The Doctoral Leaders Programme is an excellent opportunity for DRs who wish to play an active role in supporting IAS events and initiatives and contributing to the University’s research culture. The role involves a wide range of activities, including: 

  • Assisting in hosting leading international academics during their time at Loughborough University and work closely with IAS Fellows, staff, and colleagues in running projects and events.
  • Developing valuable skills including teamwork, communication, organisation, and time management.
  • Learning about new subject areas by engaging with Fellows and Loughborough academics.
  • Read about the experiences of recent Doctoral Leaders on the IAS blog.

How to engage with us

Getting involved with the IAS is simple and flexible. Whether you would like to attend a seminar, coffee morning, or PGR workshop, there are opportunities to suit different interests and levels of involvement. 

Upcoming seminars, workshops, and events are regularly advertised through the IAS newsletter and on the IAS website. You will also receive email reminders to book upcoming sessions. To view our upcoming events, please visit the events page.