Being a Researcher

Guide for New Researchers

We have produced a PDF guide for research staff starting a research position at the University of Edinburgh. Developed by the Institute for Academic Development, this guide covers the following:

• Links to relocation advice from within the University, for those moving to Edinburgh
• Inductions available from around the University
• Key areas to think about to successfully transition into your researcher position

Guide for New Researchers

Code of Practice for the Management and Career Development of Research Staff

The Code of Practice for the Management and Career Development of Research Staff, and links to the processes and policies it outlines.

Code of Practice for the Management and Career Development of Research Staff

The Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers

The Concordat sets out, in three clear principles: Environment and Culture, Employment and Professional and Career Development, the responsibilities of researchers, managers of researchers, institutions and funders.  It aims to increase the attractiveness and sustainability of research careers in the UK and to improve the quantity, quality and impact of research for the benefit of the UK society and its economy.

The Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers

10 days of Professional Development per year

A key commitment in the Concordat is that University of Edinburgh will

Provide opportunities, structured support, encouragement and time for researchers to engage in a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year, recognising that researchers will pursue careers across a wide range of employment sectors.

Examples of how researchers might use these 10 days (or more) to best effect

Research Integrity

You are expected to undertake research in such a way that allows others to have confidence and trust in the methods and findings of the research.  This responsibility relates both to the methodological integrity of conducted research and to the professional integrity of the individuals undertaking the research.  The links below provide information on policies, codes of practice, training to help you research with integrity and routes to report concerns around research misconduct. 

Research Integrity

Your responsibilities as a researcher

Research Culture

The University of Edinburgh is committed to promoting and developing a vibrant and inclusive research culture. View the University’s Research Culture website to find out about the Research Cultures Action & Delivery Plans.

Research Culture

Interdisciplinary Research

A SharePoint space which aims to connect people, information, resources and events for all things to do with interdisciplinary research and researchers at The University of Edinburgh. 

Interdisciplinary Research [Your University Login required]

Digital Research Services

The Digital Research Services team provide a range of support to researchers including the advice you need to navigate the research services provided by Information Services and other leading University of Edinburgh IT providers. We can help select the resources which best fit your research requirements, identify training opportunities, and calculate IT-related costs for funding applications. You can find our contact details on the website alongside some of the resources we cover including those for data-intensive and computational research.

Digital Research Services

Behaviours Charter

The Behaviours Charter gives examples of the types of behaviours which reflect our shared values and is designed to help us embed a values led approach across the University.The Behaviours Charter will help us, as University staff, talk about behaviours in a consistent way and provides a framework to lead two way conversations about how we do our jobs as well as what we do.  

Behaviours Charter