Building on the success of our June 2017 pilot, this exciting one-day conference is prompted by a growing mutual enthusiasm for interaction between early career researchers (Postdocs, Research Assistants and DPhil students) across the University and employers seeking analytical minds and research-related experience. This event is aimed at late stage DPhil students and research staff. Lunch and tea/coffee are provided.

Our aim is to build understanding of trends in key employment sectors, the skills sought by each, and of the steps involved in transitioning from academia, or into the interface between academia, applied and/or policy work. We will hear from employees who moved from a DPhil or research position into jobs that make the most of their research training and experience, and have plenty of time to ask questions.

Panel sessions are planned in the following broad areas: Academic Publishing; Being Enterprising; IT, Technology and the Digital Landscape; Finance; Law and policy; Science to Commercial Science; Research-Related Roles; Specialist Consulting.

New this year: Employers that actively recruit researchers will offer training sessions in skills related to preparing for and making a transitioning from academia, for example creativity for effective consulting, powerful presentations for business clients, negotiation and resilience. You will have opportunity to engage further with these employers during a networking lunch.