ECR Network
Society&Culture PGR/ECR Network
Who we are
The Society & Culture PGR/ECR Network is a vibrant, interdisciplinary community for postgraduate researchers (PGRs) and early career researchers (ECRs) at the ÉñÂí¸£ÀûӰƬ. We bring together scholars from diverse fields, including sociology, cultural studies, history, media, philosophy, health sciences and beyond - who are exploring the intersections of culture, society, and identity.
Our network fosters collaboration, intellectual exchange, and professional development by organising seminars, workshops, reading groups, and networking events. We aim to create an inclusive space where researchers can share ideas, receive peer support, and engage in critical discussions that shape the future of cultural and social research.
Whether you are looking to connect with like-minded scholars, collaborate on projects, gain new perspectives, or develop your research in a supportive environment, the Society & Culture PGR/ECR Network is here for you.
The Society & Culture PGR/ECR Network supports postgraduate researchers (PGRs) and early career researchers (ECRs) at the ÉñÂí¸£ÀûӰƬ who work on culture, society, and related interdisciplinary fields.
Why a PGR/ECR Network?
Building an Interdisciplinary Community
Many researchers explore themes that span multiple disciplines (e.g., sociology, media, history, philosophy). The network provides a space to connect, share ideas, and collaborate across departments.
Providing Support for PGRs and ECRs
The early stages of an academic career can be isolating. The network fosters peer support, offering opportunities to discuss research, exchange feedback, and navigate academic challenges together.
Creating Opportunities for Professional Development
Through workshops, seminars, and networking events, members gain skills, expand their professional circles, and prepare for careers both within and beyond academia.
Encouraging Critical Discussions
The network promotes conversations about pressing cultural and societal issues, offering a space for debate and new perspectives that enrich academic work.
Enhancing Research Visibility
By showcasing members’ work through events and collaborations, the network helps researchers gain recognition and contribute to larger academic and public discussions.
Join the ECR Network!
Fill in this form (), and you will be added to our Teams space.
Eligibility
Any PGR (Postgraduate Research) or self-defined ECR (Early Career Researcher) at the ÉñÂí¸£ÀûӰƬ can join. If you are broadly working on the
Spotlight's themesLink opens in a new window and are interested in collaborating with others, get in touch!
ECR Development
Writing Competition
The S&C Spotlight runs an annual writing competition around May-July for ECRs and PGRs to try out ideas, practise their writing, and showcase their works. Find past events in 2024Link opens in a new window, 2025Link opens in a new window and 2026Link opens in a new window.
Before the competition, we will hold a launch event to introduce the competition, share opportunities, and encourage networking.
Writing RetreatLink opens in a new window
The S&C ECRN runs monthly writing retreats on the Main Campus and the Gibbet Hill Campus, providing a friendly and supportive space to help you make a positive start towards your writing goals.
Workshops
The S&C ECRN runs a series of research and career skills workshops for ECRs and PGRs, featuring both internal and external speakers. Topics include, but are not limited to, digital literacy for research, grant writing, engaging with policymakers, dealing with setbacks, and developing interdisciplinary research skills.
Funding opportunities for ECRs from the Society & Culture Spotlight
Please check out this page for updated information.