The RDM Researcher Association is run by researchers for researchers. Our goal is to create a supportive and inclusive community. Our activities range from organising career development and networking events to hosting social gatherings that connect researchers from different RDM divisions.
The RDM Researcher Association Committee held a special meeting on 9 January to kick off the new year (although we usually meets on the last Thursday of each month).
We reviewed feedback from the 2024 RDM Careers Day, which was overwhelmingly positive. We received some great suggestions for improvement, and we are already incorporating these ideas into the plans for RDM Careers Day 2025.
Next, we focused on planning our upcoming events:
Science Speed Dating
Our first event for 2025 will be Science Speed Dating, taking place in mid-February, just in time for Valentine's Day. But don't worry - this isn't about romantic love; it's all about science love! The goal is to connect researchers from different divisions in a fun, pressure-free setting. The event will follow a speed-dating format, but instead of romantic questions, participants will have cards with prompts about their projects. You will have 2-5 minutes to share your research with your 'date' before moving on to the next match.
This informal and social activity is designed to encourage RDM researchers to chat, ask questions, and discover the exciting research happening across the divisions. Who knows? It might even spark new collaborations! Oh, and there will be free food and drinks! Keep an eye out for more details coming soon - we hope to see you there.
Our popular events
We have a couple of events that are 'famous' in RDM: the Science Pub Quiz and the RDM Careers Day.
Science Pub Quiz
This event happens in June, and we are now organising it for the third year in a row. It is a perfect simple engaging way to connect with RDM researchers while enjoying food, drinks, and the chance to win a small prize! Our quiz masters carefully select questions on a variety of topics, always including sections on science, RDM and some lesser-known facts about the University of Oxford.
RDM Careers Day
Taking place between October and November, this event is designed to inspire and guide RDM students and staff. We invite alumni from RDM or the University of Oxford who have built careers in academia or other sectors (industry, government, etc.) to share their career journeys and highlight the many professional paths available. The day also includes practical workshops on networking, the interview process, CV writing, etc.
Engaging with us
You can join the mailing list (send a blank email to rdm_researchers-subscribe@maillist.ox.ac.uk), pay attention to RDM communications (social media and bulletin) and posters displayed in your division, or visit our webpage.
If you have any ideas for events to connect people, and talk about science (or not), please email us with your suggestions at researcher.association@rdm.ox.ac.uk
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