Welcome to your research degree with the University of Plymouth
At the induction sessions there will be opportunities to learn more about starting your research degree, procedures and milestones; to learn about support and training for research students; to meet other new research students; and to meet staff from the Doctoral College, Library and International Office, who are there to help you during your research degree at Plymouth.
For enquiries about the Doctoral College induction for new research students, please email researchskills@plymouth.ac.uk
For other research degrees enquiries, please contact the
Doctoral College
.
Induction programme
Day 1
10:00–10:15 – Arrival (tea and coffee available)
10:15–11:45 – Welcome to your research degree and getting started – Professor Richard Yarwood, Director of the Doctoral College
11:45–12:30 – Break
12:30–13:00 – Postgraduate Research representatives and the Students’ Union – Faculty and School PGR representatives, SU VP Education
13:00–13:45 – Lunch
13:45–14:45 – Research degrees: processes, policies and procedures – Dr Cristina Rivas, Doctoral College Manager
14:45–15:30 – Campus treasure hunt and tour
Day 2
10:00–11:00 – GradBook and induction Q&A – Dr Cristina Rivas, Doctoral College Manager
11:00–11:15 – Break
11:15–12:15 – Researcher Development, training and support – Sarah Kearns, Researcher Development Manager
12:15–13:00 – Lunch and meet Doctoral College staff
13:00–13:45 – Library and information services – Information Specialists
13:45–14:45 – International students and Student Visa sessions – Academic Registry and English Language Centre
Please note:
- Induction is a mandatory requirement for all new research students.
- New research students will receive invitations to attend Doctoral College induction.
- If new research students are unable to attend any scheduled sessions, researchskills@plymouth.ac.uk will provide access to induction resources through our Moodle page.
- All Doctoral College induction enquiries can be emailed to researchskills@plymouth.ac.uk
- Faculties/schools will arrange additional local induction events (for enquiries please contact your school
Postgraduate Research Coordinator ).
Academic Year 2025/26 induction days will take place on:
- 2–3 October 2025 (for October starters)
- 7–8 January 2026 (for January starters)
- 9–10 April 2026 (for April starters)