A new academic year brings with it a familiar sense of possibility: new projects, new ideas, new deadlines and, inevitably, new demands on our time! But how often do we stop to think about how we want the year to work for us, rather than simply responding to what it throws at us?

For emerging researchers, balancing research with work, study, family life and everything in between can be challenging. The start of a new academic year provides an opportunity to pause, reset and consider what might make our research journeys more purposeful, manageable and rewarding.

Our next ResTalk session invites us to explore the question: What could you do differently this academic year to make your research work better for you?

This might mean thinking about how we manage our time, protect space for research, approach writing, respond to setbacks, build connections, make the most of opportunities, or simply maintain momentum when academic life gets busy.

Rather than offering polished solutions or presenting a perfect research routine, the session will provide an informal space to share ideas, experiences, strategies and ambitions. What works for one researcher might spark an idea for another—or prompt a useful challenge or alternative perspective.

This ResTalk session will be held online on Thursday 1^st October, 6pm, BST.

You can register with Teams.

We welcome all Emerging Researchers to come along, contribute to the discussion and connect with others as we begin a new academic year together.

Please note that this is a highly informal, discussion-based event designed to encourage collaboration, reflection and connection. Over-preparation and PowerPoint slides are definitely not necessary!