Confessions of an Early Career Researcher

Episode 3: Two heads are better than one: Networking and mentors in academia With Clare Stainthorp and Devina Sarwatay Like much of ECR life, there’s no one-size-fits-all to finding the perfect networks and mentors. In this episode, Leonie Smith unpacks the world of academic networking with Clare Stainthorp and Devina Sarwatay – from finding and growing group networks, to choosing the right mentors for you. How can networks help the uncertainty of being a first-gen academic, or aid the move from one country’s HE system to another? How did the pandemic impact our attitude towards community? And ultimately, why are academics so incredibly generous?  Head to our podcast hub for more: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/audio-video/confessions-of-an-early-career-researcher Find out more about the British Academy: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/      Join our Early Career Researcher Network: https://thebritishacademyecrn.com/   Subscribe to our email newsletter: https://email.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/p/6P7Q-5PO/newsletter 

Episode 2: From draft to grant: Funding in academia With Anna Vignoles FBA and Pavan ManoApplying for funding is a crucial, continual and admittedly treacherous part of the ECR experience. In this episode of Confessions of an Early Career Researcher, Leonie Smith speaks to Anna Vignoles, director of the Leverhulme Trust, and Pavan Mano on the key marks to hit when going for grants. Hear from the perspective of both those applying and those funding on what makes a good application, how to manage rejection, and the importance of asking for help.  Head to our podcast hub for more: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/audio-video/confessions-of-an-early-career-researcher Find out more about the British Academy: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/      Join our Early Career Researcher Network: https://thebritishacademyecrn.com/   Subscribe to our email newsletter: https://email.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/p/6P7Q-5PO/newsletter 

Episode 1: Finding your voice: What makes an ECR? With Temidayo Eseonu and Ayse Burcin BaskurtFrom developing your PhD, acclimatising to UK higher education structures, or navigating the vast expanse of LinkedIn – is there one right way to be an Early Career Researcher? What makes an ECR in today’s ever-changing academic landscape? In our first episode of Confessions of an Early Career Researcher, Leonie Smith sits down with Dayo Eseonu and Burcin Baskurt to discuss their non-traditional routes into academia – and the advantages these backgrounds bring.  Head to our podcast hub for more: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/audio-video/confessions-of-an-early-career-researcher Find out more about the British Academy: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/      Join our Early Career Researcher Network: https://thebritishacademyecrn.com/   Subscribe to our email newsletter: https://email.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/p/6P7Q-5PO/newsletter 

Navigating the world of academia after your PhD can feel overwhelming, exciting, and a little bit secretive. Confessions of an Early Career Researcher is a candid, honest, and inspiring podcast for Early Career Researchers (ECRs) at every stage of their journey.  In each episode, host Dr Leonie Smith sits down with scholars at varying stages of their careers to share personal stories, practical insights, and the realities of building a life in (and sometimes beyond) academia.  From funding applications and precarious contracts, to imposter syndrome and mentorship, no topic is off limits. Tune in as we unpack your new academia survival guide – Confessions of an Early Career Researcher is now available on all podcasting platforms.  Head to our podcast hub for more: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/audio-video/confessions-of-an-early-career-researcher Find out more about the British Academy: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/    Join our Early Career Researcher Network: https://thebritishacademyecrn.com/ Subscribe to our email newsletter: https://email.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/p/6P7Q-5PO/newsletter 

The British Academy and Leverhulme Trust are developing an exciting new podcast series exploring the journeys and challenges of Early Career Researchers (ECRs).Coming very soon!