Researcher Development Concordat

Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers

The University of Bristol has committed to the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers, an agreement aimed at improving employment conditions and support for research staff. It sets clear expectations for funders, institutions, managers of researchers and researchers themselves regarding responsibilities and career development.

What does the Concordat mean for me?

The Concordat directly impacts how researchers in the UK are employed and managed, outlining what they can expect from their employer, manager, and funder. It also provides guidelines for conducting research and personal development.

Implementing the Concordat at the University of Bristol

Bristol actively integrates the Concordat's principles, shaping policies and enhancing training. An action plan, developed with key stakeholders, drives improvements and is regularly reviewed. 

Oversight and development of our action plans

Work to progress our actions is overseen by the Research Culture Committee. The RCC oversees the implementation of the action plan and our internal assessment processes, which include consultation with key stakeholders such as our Research Staff Reps Committee. 

Concordat Champions

As part of the University’s commitment to the Concordat to support the career development of researchers, each School is encouraged to appoint a local Concordat Champion. The role of the Champions is to help raise awareness of the Concordat and our collective role in supporting careers of researchers. Champions are academic members of staff who are on school committees, and they work closely with Research Staff Reps, Heads of Schools and others to address the local research culture.