Postgraduate research diversity
PGR Plus (PGR+) is a programme of support for current doctoral students from underrepresented and minoritised groups at the University of Leeds. We organise a range of events and activities, from socials to mentoring programmes, to help you to make the most of your time with us.
Email the PGR Diversity team or sign up to our mailing list to find out more. If you’re a current Leeds doctoral student, you can also explore our PGR Plus SharePoint site.
Join our research community
We appreciate that starting your PhD can feel overwhelming. To help you settle into the research community, our PGR+ Buddy Scheme can connect you with more experienced doctoral students from similar backgrounds or disciplines who can offer advice and guidance during your first six weeks at Leeds.
Meet other doctoral students
The PGR+ Socials calendar kicks off with the first Welcome Party for new and returning doctoral students in October. Our Welcome Parties are a great opportunity to meet other doctoral students from across the university or reconnect with friends over a slice or two of pizza! There are events throughout the academic year, from film screenings to trips and writing retreats, and family-friendly activities.
Mentoring opportunities
Our PGR+ Circle Mentoring programme allows you to benefit from the insights of more experienced doctoral students who know what it’s like to prepare for a viva, make the most of fieldwork or network at conferences. We can also connect you with academics and industry professionals through the PGR+ Professional Mentoring programme to help you plan your next steps after graduation.
Professional development and training
We’ve partnered with Fistral Training to offer a range of PGR+ Workshops designed specifically for doctoral students. Join us to find out how you can manage your time more effectively, reframe procrastination, or influence without authority.
Support for staff
We provide a range of support for staff responsible for enhancing the experiences of current and prospective doctoral students from underrepresented and minoritised groups – from delivering ring-fenced research internships and scholarships to developing EDI strategies for UKRI doctoral landscape and focal award bids. Visit our PGR Diversity for staff SharePoint site for more information or email the PGR Diversity team.