At the start of the 2025-26 academic year, the PGR Development Network was renamed the PGR Development Group. Our activities and work however remain the same.
The PGR Development Group (PDG) is a peer-led initiative, run on a voluntary basis by PGRs for PGRs. Its work is supported by The Academy, the University of Liverpool’s centre for people and practice development.
The PDG exists to bring together PGRs from across all faculties, forming a supportive and inclusive community that provides opportunities for personal and professional development, fosters connections, and acts as a PGR voice within the University of Liverpool.
The PDG leadership is made up of PGRs from various schools and departments, who work together to organise events and opportunities tailored to the diverse needs of the University of Liverpool’s vibrant PGR community.
PDG networking event
The PDG is pleased to announce that its next PGR Networking Event will take place on Thursday, 11 December, from 11am to 12.30pm, in the Researcher Room of the Sydney Jones Library.
This will be a fun and informal gathering where PGRs can connect with other PGRs. All PGRs are encouraged to come along, meet someone new, and engage in some light-hearted activities that reflect on PGR life. There will be free tea, coffee, and biscuits.
Those interested can register here.
This is the first PGR networking event of the 25-26 academic year, following on from two enjoyable and well-attended events in the previous academic year.
Attendees will also be able to find out more about the PGR Development Group and opportunities to participate in it.
PGR Development Group activities
The PDG organises a number of events and opportunities to support the personal and professional development of PGRs at the University of Liverpool.
“Coffee & Connect” sessions provide an informal space where PGRs can meet and chat with other PGRs. These take place on the second Thursday of every month, from 11:30 to 12:30. More information about “Coffee & Connect” can be found here.
“Lunch & Learn” events provide an opportunity for PGRs to enhance their knowledge and skills on a particular development topic over a short, informal, lunchtime session. Each month there is a new speaker and theme that addresses PGR interests. More information about “Lunch & Learn” events can be found here.
The PDG’s e-bulletin is packed with news and opportunities, from courses and conferences to the latest funding calls. This is sent out to all PGRs at the beginning of the month.
PDG also organises larger networking events like the upcoming one on 11 December.
For more information on PDG, visit its webpage here or email the group at pdg@liverpool.ac.uk.