With input from experienced academics, early-career researchers and others, this online event examined a range of issues faced by researchers in their career development, particularly as they transition from postgraduate researchers to postdoctoral research staff, during the unstable period of postdoctoral roles, and then as they seek to transition from postdoctoral research to a permanent role either in academia or industry. There were also discussions around actions for universities, departments, research groups and individuals to address in order to better support career development in research.

The event was led by Professor Emma Flynn, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Enterprise, and included contributions from:

• Dr Fatima Gunning, Senior Researcher,Tyndall National Institute, University College Cork
• Dr Caroline Barelle, Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Faculty of Medical, Health and Life Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast
• Dr Alice Dubois, PDC Manager, Postdoctoral Development Centre, Queen’s University Belfast
• Dr Fatima Gunning, Senior Researcher,Tyndall National Institute, University College Cork
• Professor David Rooney, Dean of Internationalisation and Reputation, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast
• Dr Stephen McMahon, UKRI Future Leaders Fellow and member of Queens’ Fellowship Academy