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British Academy Early Career Researcher Network expands to London

10 January 2024

The inclusive, UK-wide network is for and led by Early Career Researchers in the humanities and social sciences, providing opportunities for skills development and networking.

Attendees at the British Academy Early Career Researcher Network event

The IAS, along with the UCL Collaborative Social Sciences Domain (CSSD) and the Institute of Education (IOE), is delighted to have been part of a successful bid for funding from the British Academy. This makes UCL one of four key partners in the launch and running of the new London cluster of the British Academy ECR network.

Since the Network’s launch in Autumn 2021 in partnership with the Wolfson Foundation, the ECRN has welcomed 47 institutions participating across four clusters – in the Midlands, the South West of England, Scotland and now London. As of December 2023, the network has attracted 3,045 members, over 58% of whom are based at non-Russell Group universities.

According to an independent evaluation of its early pilot model conducted by the Technology Development Group in 2022, the ECRN is an 'undoubted success with ECRs,' which 'adds value' to their experiences. It has since gone from strength to strength, securing investment from the Wolfson Foundation to develop a programme beyond its initial scope. Its expansion to London marks a significant chapter in the Network’s development.

The ECRN is committed to fostering a dynamic and engaging community for its members. To this end, new members in London will have the opportunity to shape the network's future by participating in a survey which will allow them to express their preferences for the network's offerings and opportunities.

The London launch event will take place on 28 February 2024 at the British Academy, bringing together ECRs from across the city to develop a programme of activities by ECRs, for ECRs. This programme will be collaboratively created with our partner universities leading the London cluster and ECRs from our existing regional clusters.

The British Academy’s new purpose-built hybrid event spaces, set to launch to the public in 2024, will further enable opportunities for early career researchers to connect in the heart of London.

To take part in the Early Career Researcher Network, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • To have completed your PhD within the last 10 years, although there is flexibility for those who have had career breaks.
  • To identify as a researcher in the SHAPE disciplines (the humanities and social sciences) including associated performance and creative disciplines.

Early career researchers based in London are invited to apply to join the ECRN via the British Academy’s registration form.

Further information