From 2024-25, every student is expected to include a Research in Practice (RiP) component in their PhD training. Often thought of as a placement, but actually more flexible than that, the Research in Practice provides practical opportunities to learn from the application of theoretical knowledge and methodological skills in different local, national, and sometimes international, contexts and sectors.
Experts from business, industry and civil society are encouraged to deliver learning experiences and learning resources as part of Research in Practice training.
Advance thinking about the Research in Practice begins with the initial Development Needs Analysis (DNA).
There are a range of options to allow the training experience to fit with various domestic situations, interests and career aspirations.
The SCDTP will support the matching of students to Research in Practice placement opportunities advertised by UKRI and our wealth of non-academic partners in the UK, as well as build on the students’ own skills and networks to set up their own placements and learning experiences.
In turn, students will engage in reflective learning pre-, during and post Research in Practice so that skills learned through practice in an authentic, supportive, mentored work environment can be enhanced and the benefits multiplied. Options include reflective journaling, blogging, critical incidents analysis, and research conversations with guided prompts.
Three months (full time equivalent) of the funding stipend is dedicated to this component and students will be able to claim reasonable travel and accommodation expenses from the SCDTP. We will also support students to negotiate with the organization hosting the RiP to cover such costs where they can. There will be training focused on budgeting.
Students beginning their SCDTP studentship before 2024/2025 can apply to do an internship rather than the Research in Practice placement.
