In 2003 UniSA held its inaugural forum for all Early Career Researchers (ECR), chaired by the former Pro Vice Chancellor for Research, Professor Ian Davey. The purpose of the forum was to seek advice and input from UniSA ECRs to inform the design of a framework for a 12 month long development program aimed at assisting academic staff in the early stages of their career (usually awarded a doctorate within the previous five years) in establishing a successful academic career.
Since then the ECR Development Program has evolved to offer a cohort model with participants selected annually based on a nomination process. In the context of research inspired by challenges and opportunities, partnered with end-users and communities, and underpinned by excellence, participants attend a series of sessions on a range of topics topics with a focussed content aligned to the Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Topics covered as part of program days include:
The program utilises the expertise of experienced researchers who share their insight and learning to support early career researchers and their research activities. Additional or 'in-demand' topics are included for special interest sub-groups, depending on the level of interest.
Participants also receive individual mentoring from senior UniSA researchers.
For further information about the program contact Siobhan Langan, Consultant: People, Talent and Culture.
In 2017, 34 early career researchers were selected to participate in the Program. Participants attended a series of sessions on a range of topics with a focussed content aligned to the Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) and received individual mentoring from senior UniSA researchers.