North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership
Developing 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.
Read MoreOversees institutional Visit – University of Sydney, Australia
Lauren Halsall, Health & Wellbeing, Lancaster University (2022 Cohort)
Earlier this year, I was lucky enough to undertake an oversees institutional visit to the Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, at the University of Sydney. On the whole, I found the OIV to be a truly transformational experience, and one that I would recommend to all NWSSDTP students.
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