Researchers are an integral part of The University of Manchester and we’ve put together some of the key events, networks and opportunities to help you build your community during your time with us.
Welcome from Beck, your Postgraduate Research Officer
Hi there, I’m Beck (they/them), welcome to the University!
Earlier this year, following my PhD in disability history, Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs) elected me to be their representative here at the Students’ Union. I will be fighting for you to get meaningful, practical support at every stage of your degree and after you graduate — no matter what your circumstances.
PGRs are at the heart of everything I do, so if you want to get involved or share your story, I would love to hear from you!Find out more about me and how to get in touch. You can also drop by the Activities Office (1st floor of the Students’ Union (Mon – Weds).
Welcome events
There are lots of events taking place over the next few months, from wellbeing events, library tours and socials. Here are just a couple you can get involved in:
- Campus tours – Join our student ambassadors for a guided walking tour of campus, lasting about one hour. Tours will run 10am – 3pm and will leave every hour on the hour. Various dates.
- Breakfast with Duncan – Come and have breakfast with our President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Duncan Ivison. Duncan and other senior staff from the University and Students’ Union will be taking part in a Q&A so come with your questions. Wednesday, 23 September, 10am – 11am.
Visit our Welcome website to find out more and view all University events and you can find more events on the Students’ Union website.
Postgraduate activities community
A collection of regular PGR-run activities including hiking and mini golf. Find out more and follow the Instagram page.
Postdoc Clubs Hub
There are a variety of postdoc-run clubs open to PGRs, here are just a few you can get involved in:
- UoM Postdoc Netball
- Zumba Connect
- Gig Seekers
- Postdoc Climbing Club
- Traditional Ju-Jitsu and Kobudo Postdoc Society
- Early Career Run Club
Visit the Postdoc Clubs Hub SharePoint site to find out more.
The University of Manchester Researchers Association (UMPA)
UMPA is here to advocate for your experience and to ensure you’re represented across the University. It’s open to all PGRs and you can find out more about the association on the Students’ Union website.
UMPA also holds a social at the Students’ Union Bar every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month, 4–6pm.
Mature Students Society
The Mature Students Society welcome students of all ages, but you’ll find a community of mature students and postgraduates at The University of Manchester.
Parents, Carers and Guardians Network
The University’s Parents, Carers and Guardians Network is an invaluable source of support and advice for those balancing caregiving responsibilities with university life. Whether you need practical advice, emotional support, or simply a friendly community, the network is here to help.
Join the mailing list and follow the network on Instagram.
We’ve put together an article with support for student parents and carers where you can find out more about the network.
Disabled PGRs
The Challenging Research WhatsApp was set up by disabled PGRs at the University of Manchester for peer support, socialising, advocacy and activism.
The Disabled Staff Network is the voice of Disabled Staff and PGRs at the University.
Stay up to date and connected
- Bluesky – You can follow The University of Manchester on Bluesky for the latest research news and updates. There’s an active community of Manchester academics and researchers sharing their work and we’d love for you to get involved so that we can share any wins throughout your journey.
- Student News – Keep an eye on student news to find all the latest news and events including content created by postgraduate researchers.
- PGR Discord Server – Join this online Discord community run by and for PGRs at the University to connect from a distance.
- PGR WhatsApp – Join the PGR WhatsApp community, set up by the Postgrad Activities Community (PAC), for general updates and announcements, plus chats for specific sub-groups for different activities.