Vitae, a new organisation set up to champion the professional development of researchers in the UK, was launched on 25 June by Ian Pearson, Minister of State for Science and Innovation, alongside the new ‘Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers’.

Funded by Research Councils UK (RCUK) and managed by CRAC: The Career Development Organisation, Vitae builds on previous work by the UK GRAD Programme and UKHERD to build capacity in the higher education sector to support researchers. The Concordat sets out the expectations and responsibilities of researchers, their managers, employers 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 UK society and the economy.

At its first annual conference last week, Vitae launched a programme of activities, including the Concordat, aimed at addressing the strategic and practical implications of a changing framework of support for researchers in the UK.

Christian Carter said: ‘It’s a great honour to be invited on to Vitae’s Advisory Group. The appointment reflects the leading role the University has played in the higher education sector over the past 10 years in its approach to the career development of research staff.’

More information about the University’s own initiatives for research staff can be found on the website.