BU Research Blog

Catch up on the latest Researcher Development opportunities, funding calls, and events available for Early Career Researchers across BU

Whether you are looking to boost your research skills, fund a community initiative, or connect with key teams across BU, here is everything you need to know:

Launch of the Early Career Researcher Development Programme

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our updated Researcher Development Programme for 2026–27, specifically tailored for ECRs.

Here is how you can get involved:

• Explore the Programme: Check out available sessions and structured development pathways in our Researcher Development Programme 2026-27
• Researcher Development Hub: Discover opportunities by career stage or specific theme on the Researcher Development Hub
• Catch up on News: Don’t forget to read the latest news and updates in our October Newsletter

Research Culture & Community Grant – Applications Now Open

Following the success of previous funding rounds, a new round of grant funding is now open for BU Early Career Researchers. These grants provide the resources you need to innovate, collaborate, and lead initiatives that strengthen our research environment.

Available Funding Streams:

Stream 1: Researcher Development (Grants up to £500)

Supports skills focused workshops, guest speaker sessions, methods training, or writing groups

Stream 2: Research Culture and Community (Grants up to £300)

Supports community building, cultural, social, or wellbeing-enhancing activities

Key Details & Deadlines:

• Inclusivity & Accountability: Activities must be open to the ECR community. Organisers are responsible for delivery and evaluation (one lead activity per cycle)
• Delivery Deadline: All activities must be delivered and invoiced by 31 July 2027
• Application Deadline: Monday 16 November, 4pm Apply here

Looking for inspiration? Take a look below to see some of the fantastic projects and events funded during the last round:

Upcoming Event:  Meet the RIS Team (3C Event)

Join us for the next 3C event to meet the Research & Innovation Services (RIS) team, ask questions, and discover how RIS can support your research journey.

Wednesday 11 November, 3-4pm

BGB, Lansdowne Campus

Open to all BU researchers

Find out more and register here

Stay Connected: Join the ECR Network 

Don’t miss out on targeted opportunities, specialised resources, and funding alerts designed specifically for Early Career Researchers.

To join the network, simply email your contact details to researcherdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk

If you have any questions about any of these items, feel free to reach out to the team at researcherdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk