As a tool of academic networking, social media has become an almost indispensable feature of academic life. It is possible that its importance varies according to your standing within the profession. For older and more established scholars, some remain reluctant to experiment with social media, believing that their status within…>
Career Development
Publishing Articles, and the Debate Over ‘Open Access’ Publications
Academics, and those aspiring to enter into the academic profession, are most probably familiar with the phrase ‘publish or perish’. The need for academics to publish is integral to applications for jobs, promotion to permanent positions and to obtain research funding. Publishing peer-reviewed journal articles are a key part of…>
Getting Your First Book Contract
The publication of an academic book, especially a monograph, is still regarded as the ‘gold standard’ in British academia, especially in the humanities.
Why Joint-Degree Programmes Between British and Chinese Universities is a Positive Development
Recent political and economic developments have brought China into the spotlight on the international stage. Initiatives driven by the government such as the ‘one belt, one road’ policy means that China is planning for deeper influence on the international economic stage. It would logically follow that in this respect, increased…>
Setting Up Placement Systems
The student experience lies at the heart of the modern UK university, with institutions vying to offer students the best in teaching and learning opportunities, research-driven expertise, top-of-the-range facilities, and excellent support services. But the one thing students really need in the competitive marketplace into which they will graduate is…>
Keeping Your Curriculum Current
Curriculum review is an essential tool for ensuring that the needs of a wide range of stakeholders in the teaching process are met. Students are, of course, the key stakeholders in the process, but others include employers, professional bodies, subject organizations, and even civic society at large. Curriculum review can…>
The Positive Side of Rejection
…and How It Can Help You Achieve Better Things In Your Career. Getting a rejection letter, whether it is your first, or 100th, never gets any easier. There is a common human tendency to take it personally. I know that when I get a rejection, it often eclipses a great…>
Preparing For A Visiting Fellowship Abroad
For emerging scholars who have worked in the university system for around 5-7 years, the option of applying for a visiting fellowship abroad can be particularly appealing. It will enable you to immerse yourself in a new culture, while also being able to devote more time to your research. The…>
Moving from Academic to Management Roles
5 Steps to Take In these days of change, credible voices are needed throughout the university sector. The barriers between academic and management jobs are far more permeable than they used to be, as universities continue to grow into highly complex environments requiring sophisticated and adaptable management skills. So if…>
Working as an Academic with the Commercial Sector
It’s a little-known fact that you don’t need to leave academia to work with the commercial sector. Universities these days are busy developing their outward-facing roles, and many have created business hubs that allow academics and corporate sectors to work together. This article considers a few of the ways in…>