BNU to lead British Academy researcher network in southeast

Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) has been chosen as one of the lead partners in the new southeastern cluster of the British Academy’s Early Career Researchers Network.

The national scheme supports researchers working in social sciences, humanities and the arts, as well as related disciplines. It provides access to seed funding and career development grants, training, mentoring and networking opportunities.

BNU will co-lead delivery of the regional programme with the University of Southampton and Canterbury Christ Church University. The universities are expected to run events across the region, with costs covered by the British Academy.

The initiative will link with BNU’s existing inclusive research network, The Plexus+, which is aimed at promoting collaboration and diversity in academic work.

The partnership follows a successful bid led by associate professor Liana Psarologaki, together with professor Arinola Adefila and BNU’s Research and Knowledge Exchange Office.

Psarologaki said: “We are very excited to launch the new regional chapter of the British Academy ECRN in our region together with esteemed colleagues from the University of Southampton and Canterbury Christ Church University. All partners in the cluster share the same values around equitable collaboration and inclusive culture in research development.

“BNU will contribute an array of events and opportunities for ECRs in the region and beyond and we look forward to seeing the cluster grow and research communities flourish.”