North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership
Translating Research for Policy Impact: An ESRC Postdoctoral Perspective on Giving Parliamentary Evidence
Dr Jane Horton – Previous ESRC Postdoctoral Fellow
At the start of my Fellowship in October 2024 (ESRC postdoctoral fellowships – UKRI)I, like many postgraduates and early career researchers, had heard about ‘engaging with policy’, but was unsure how to do this in practice. A key turning point for me was taking part in the ESRC Post Doctoral Fellows Development Programme, delivered by Sealey Associates (https://sealeyassociates.com/a-pilots-eye-view-the-esrc-postdoctoral-fellows-development-programme). The programme was valuable throughout, but the training on engaging with policy makers in January 2025 felt particularly relevant to my work. It demystified the policy world and, crucially, made engagement feel possible rather than aspirational. It was clear to see that my research could contribute to important, current debates in areas beyond academic journals and conferences.
Read MoreDeveloping my Approach to Research Impact: Insights from a Kindling Ventures Workshop
Z. Sheikh, Psychology, The University of Manchester (2023 cohort)
One aspect that I deeply value about the North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP) is the emphasis on training and professional development. I have always reflected on my skills and pushed myself out of my comfort zone to grow both professionally and personally. The PhD is a perfect opportunity to do this, and I am often getting involved in many activities to become a well-rounded researcher and psychologist. In December 2025, I had the opportunity to attend the Start Your Impact Journey: Practical Pathways for SHAPE Academic Research training workshop hosted by Kindling Ventures at the University of Liverpool.
Read MoreA productive day in a stunning setting: NWSSDTP writing retreat at Whitworth Hall
Chloe Fox-Robertson, Geography & Environment, University of Manchester (2022 Cohort)
There’s something very special about settling down to work in a room with soaring ceilings, ornate architecture, and the portraits of prominent historical figures adorning the walls. That’s exactly what NWSSDTP-funded students experienced on 18 November at the writing retreat hosted in the historic Whitworth Hall at the University of Manchester.
Read MoreReflecting on my Overseas Institutional Visit to the National University of Singapore
Chloe Fox-Robertson, Geography & Environment, University of Manchester (2022 Cohort)
Early this year, I flew out to Singapore for an Overseas Institutional Visit, funded by the North West Social Sciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP). Over six weeks at the National University of Singapore (NUS), I had the opportunity to immerse myself in a vibrant research environment, enrich my PhD research, and develop professionally and personally – including in ways I hadn’t fully anticipated before going.
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North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership 