About Research in Practice
Research in Practice is, from October 2024, a core part of the PhD for all new ESRC studentship recipients in the Welsh Graduate School for Social Sciences (WGSSS).
Research in Practice offers the opportunity to engage in practical development by undertaking a 3- month placement within academic or non-academic organisations. It is an integral part of your PhD journey, designed to enhance your research and professional skills in new contexts.
Aims
The Research in Practice placement is designed to help you:
- Develop core, professional, and transferable skills
- Apply theoretical knowledge and methodological expertise in diverse contexts
- Make an early impact in your academic or professional career by addressing real-world challenges
Additional benefits may include:
- Building professional networks
- Gaining experience in entrepreneurship and innovation
- Contributing to policy development
- Enhancing public engagement skills
Placement First Thoughts
I’m really enjoying the placement so far, it has been a great way to gain a better understanding of the day-to-day within the civil service, the working style, and the differences from more academically focused research.
WGSSS Student Chloe Thompson, University of Gloucester, writes about her placement with the Welsh Government.
This placement is giving me the opportunity to apply behavioural science in real-world scenarios within public health. Alongside that, the placement is helping to enhance my research skills and better understand testing behaviours.
WGSSS Student Sherina Lowe, Cardiff Metropolitan University, writes about her placement with Cwm Taf Morgannwg Public Health.
Click here to read more Placement First Thoughts.
Placement Options
You can choose from a range of placement types:
Non-Academic Partner-Led Placements
Hosted by approved WGSSS stakeholders across the public, private, and third sectors.
Academic Partner-Led Placements
Hosted by a research centre, research team, or professional services team outside of your current supervisory team or home department.
Self-Organised Placements
You identify and arrange a placement with a suitable host organisation.
External Placement Opportunities
Includes schemes such as the UKRI Policy Internship Scheme, institution-specific IAA placements, or other relevant external opportunities.
Ready to get started?
Submit your expression of interest for a placement here: https://forms.office.com/e/3bXfSchBGL
Important Information
All placements must meet ESRC placement criteria and cannot be paid in addition to your stipend. For questions or further guidance, please contact the Research in Practice Coordinator at: esrcrip@bangor.ac.uk
Placement Opportunities
View a list of currently advertised opportunities.