Hello ,

In this edition: 

Update on changes to the UKRI Doctoral Training Terms & Conditions

If you are funded by the UKRI, please read the latest update on the PGR Noticeboard. It includes:

• New policy documents to read, with all new changes aimed at providing more flexibility and support during your PhD.
• Newcastle’s response to the changes, including actions to take to record all types of leave (e.g. annual, medical, disability etc.).

If you have any queries regarding these updated terms and conditions, please contact your Doctoral Training Grant Management Team or your Graduate School.

PGR Community Hub

The PGR Community Hub workshops officially kicked off in the first week of October, but there’s still plenty of time to get involved! 

The Hub offers a full calendar of regular events and study groups, all run by PGRs, for PGRs.  

Need a bit of motivation? Join an Accountability or Writing Group for structured time to work alongside others and stay on track. Or drop into a Discussion or Practice Sharing Group to exchange experiences, advice, and encouragement with others who understand the PGR journey.  

Sessions run both online and in-person, so you can easily join in wherever you are. Don’t miss out!  

Upcoming research database webinar

This November, the Library is hosting a series of webinars led by expert representatives from some of our key specialist databases. 

Tailored specifically for postgraduate researchers, these sessions will spotlight essential research tools and offer insightful tips on how to unlock their full potential. 

Expect live demonstrations, expert guidance, and practical advice to help you sharpen your research skills and streamline your workflow. 

The University is introducing a new mass communication system that will allow us to send you urgent text messages should there be an imminent and serious threat to health and safety on campus or in the city.  

These messages will provide information and/or instructions that will enable you to take action to protect yourself, for example, to avoid an area should there be a major gas leak or fire.  

The system will be rolled out this month but as noted above, you'll only receive a message should there be an imminent and serious incident.   

📱 To make sure you get these messages, please keep your mobile number up to date in the Student Portal.  

We also encourage all students to download the SafeZone app for additional safety features. 

Freedom of Speech at Newcastle University

At Newcastle University, we believe that freedom of speech and academic freedom are essential to university life. 

We’re equally committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming environment where everyone feels safe and protected from harassment and discrimination.  

While the right to free speech is protected, it does not cover unlawful content such as hate speech or support for proscribed organisations.  

To understand how this affects you, read our PGR Noticeboard post to find out more about the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023 and what it means for your time at university.  

👇 Your Behaviour Matters video 👇

Please take a moment to watch the Your Behaviour Matters video produced by the University in collaboration with the Students’ Union.  

The video raises awareness about consent and the impact of sexual violence, aiming to create a safer campus by preventing incidents and encouraging active bystanders.    

Remember, support services are available, including confidential reporting and guidance from the Student Health and Wellbeing Team and Support and Advice Hub.  

University Challenge trials

We're on the hunt for the next University Challenge team to represent Newcastle University on live TV in 2026 for the ultimate quiz showdown against other UK universities!  

Think you’ve got what it takes? Sign up to a trial before Tuesday 4 November, 12:00 to be in with the chance to join the team. 

More information including trial dates and full eligibility criteria can be found on the NUSU website.  

We know that some opportunities come with expenses, but that shouldn’t hold you back! The Make It Happen Fund is here to support you!  

Whether you’re looking to develop a project, attend an interview or conference or want to gain some work experience, you can apply for funding from the Careers Service to support you and make the most of different opportunities.  

✍️ Win at Writing, PGR Retreats: Join our full-day, catered writing retreats led by Mwenza Blell to boost focus and beat procrastination. Sessions run on 3 Nov, 14 Nov, and 5 Dec on campus. Book now, there are limited spaces available!

📢 Calling all freelancers! Join START UP on Friday 7 November for a hands-on workshop with Jack Williams, co-founder of UnderPinned, designed to help freelancers and self-starters build standout portfolios that win clients. 

🏆 Love sport?: Join our Careers in Sport event to explore a wide range of career opportunities in the sports industry — extending far beyond traditional roles like playing and coaching. 

🚲 Dr Bike: Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, Dr Bike sessions offer a great opportunity to ensure your bike is safe to ride. Drop by for free minor maintenance repairs from a WATBike mechanic.