R-Project Users Group – call for interest.

Rlogo R is a free, open-source software environment for statistical computing and graphics.  There is a possibility of setting up a University-wide R Users Group for researchers and/or providing training in using R, but first we need to gauge interest and experience.

If you are interested in such a group, or training in R, please email Simone Apel.
Please mention…
1. whether you have used R or not.
2. give an outline of what you have used it for (or might use it for).
3. whether you are interested in a User Group or being trained in R.

RCUK’s research career case study resource

RCUKlogoRCUK has published further research career case studies, designed to inspire the next generation to think about pursuing a career in research.

Each case study tells their own personal story of how they got involved in research, what it takes to be a researcher, and their rewarding experiences from their chosen career paths. The RCUK resource now contains 44 case studies in total, covering a wide range of disciplines including arts and humanities; maths; biology; social sciences; and physics.  Read the rest of this entry

Still places left on the Saturday School on the 8th December

Come to the 8th December Saturday school. A full, but relaxed day which includes

  • Writing and Structuring your Thesis. Profs Ian Livingstone & Jeff OllertonGraduate School Workshops
  • Introductory statistics using SPSS: A repeat of the 13th November workshop. Paul Rice
  • Planning your Project. Daniela Bultoc
  • Time Management. Daniela Bultoc

Includes all refreshments and lunch.
Book now! Designed for those early on in their research but anyone can attend.

See the Eventbrite link for more information on each session and to book.

Why citation counts can’t always be trusted

I have written before about the limitations of citation analysis in identifying the ‘best’ research papers but I’ve never before seen anybody attempting to buy citations with marzipan.

According to Kent Anderson, CEO/Publisher of the Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery, this apparently was how one eager Editor sought to increase his journal’s impact factor.

Read the full shocking story here.

Thanks to Jenny Delasalle of Warwick University for tweeting the above link.
Image credit: Musical Linguist on Wikimedia (CC BY-SA 3.0)

New research initiatives in the School of the Arts

Submitted by Professor Janet Wilson

In 2012, the School of the Arts has hosted a range of innovative lectures and events as well as developing and launching a number of exciting interdisciplinary research groups. The Annual Postgraduate Conference (11th-14th September 2012) provided a welcome review of the range and vibrancy of doctoral projects within the School as well as featuring a keynote address by Performing Arts scholar at Brazil’s University of Bahia, Claudio Cajaiba.

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Workshop Thursday 29th – The student / supervisor relationship

Places left – book now 

The student-supervisory relationship – Click to book
Creating / keeping a harmonious relationship with your supervisor. Unmissable.
Thurs 29th 5-7.30pm T-Pod, Rockingham Library, Park

Funding opportunity: British Federation for Women Graduates’ Fund for Women Graduates

British Federation of Women Graduates, Foundation Grants

The British Federation for Women Graduates’ Fund for Women Graduates invites applications for its foundation grants. These help women graduates with their living expenses while registered for study or research at an approved institution of higher education in Great Britain.

Women from Britain and overseas are eligible to apply; there is no upper age limit. Any subject or field of study will be considered.

Grants will not normally exceed £6,000, and contribute towards the living expenses of one year’s academic study or research.

Closing Date:  3 May 2013

Workshop Weds 28th – Keep up-to-date with global research activity

Graduate School Workshops

Keeping Up to Date in the Age of Social Media – Click to book.  Learn how to QUICKLY keep up to date with research activity around the globe. Valuable for every researcher.

Weds 28th 4-6pm T-Pod, Rockingham Library, Park

Workshop: On the student / supervisory relationship

Graduate School WorkshopsStill places left! Book now http://relationnov12.eventbrite.co.uk/

Establishing a good rapport with your supervisor can help your research degree life run smoothly and without stress.

There is nothing worse than experiencing conflict and tension in the relationship; it will cause anxiety and eventually affect your research. Why not attend this unique workshop on November 29th, run by a skilled relationship  therapist and trainer?

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Conference report: ‘Narratives of difference’ in the global marketplace

Submitted by Professor Janet Wilson

On the 25th and 26th of October 2012, the Centre of Contemporary Narrative and Cultural Theory in the School of Arts at the University of Northampton, in partnership with the Spanish University of Vigo, hosted the international conference titled ‘Narratives of Difference’ in the Global Marketplace.

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