In December, Lancaster’s Research Staff Association (RSA) hosted a workshop to raise awareness of the review, as well as contribute to the sector consultation.
A national review of the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers was undertaken during 2018. December’s workshop gathered perspectives from research staff on proposed changes to the Concordat. Researchers from all four faculties attended and they discussed contracts, career development, and accountability of funders, institutions and PIs. Research staff also spoke with Paul Boustead, Director of Human Resources and Organisational Development, about Lancaster University’s commitment to researchers.
Key insights drawn from the workshop include:
- Researchers welcomed the 20% time for professional and career development.
- Researchers felt there should be opportunities for experienced researchers to transfer from fixed term to indefinite contracts.
- Researchers wanted greater opportunities for career development and progression. Involvement in activities such as teaching and postgraduate supervision should be encouraged by departments.
Researchers were incredibly supportive of the work being undertaken by Lancaster and the RSA to tackle some of the long-standing challenges researchers face. But they also indicated that greater awareness of the Concordat and its implementation was needed.
Dr Jessica Almine who attended the workshop said: “The workshop organised by the RSA was a good chance for me to express my views on issues faced by contract researchers and raise more awareness of the Concordat. I found the RSA and HR receptive to researchers’ input and ready to incorporate our views into Lancaster University’s response to the Concordat reviews.”
Chair of Lancaster University’s RSA, Dr Nathan Case, thanks the attendees for their support: “Thanks to all of the researchers who attended the December event. It was great to meet you all and to hear your views on a range of key topics. Your insights really did help shape the University’s response to the Concordat consultation, and we look forward to sharing the outcome of the consultation with you in the spring.”
Lancaster’s full response to the Concordat consultation can be found here. The sector expects a revised Concordat to be published in the spring, and the RSA will make sure researchers are aware of any developments.
Visit the RSA website to find more information on the response to the Concordat, and other initiatives for researchers at Lancaster.