Add this event to your calendar
Launch event for the Sussex Chapter of the British Academy Early Career Researcher (ECR) Network, featuring funding insights, career development opportunities and facilitated interdisciplinary networking for ECRs.
Monday 22 June 2026, 10am–2pm
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/british-academy-ecr-network-sussex-chapter-launch-tickets-1988266629010?aff=oddtdtcreator
Overview
Following the University of Sussex’s recent entry into the British Academy ECR Network South East consortium, an introductory launch event will be held to provide information on specific career development and interdisciplinary opportunities while facilitating active networking and connection-building among attendees.
The British Academy ECR Network is designed to provide a more inclusive and accessible environment for researchers across the humanities, social sciences, and the arts (SHAPE). The event aims to help participants navigate the various professional development, networking and funding opportunities offered by the British Academy while outlining the specific institutional support structures available at Sussex.
To offer an ECR-led perspective, the program features insights from previous successful grant applicants who will share their firsthand experiences of securing funding and advancing their research through the network.
Format
This in‑person event will combine short talks with facilitated discussion in an informal, supportive setting. Brief presentations will introduce the British Academy ECR Network, related funding opportunities and Sussex‑specific research development support. The second part of the day will focus on connection‑building and collaboration, with structured but flexible networking activities designed to encourage interdisciplinary conversation across the Sussex SHAPE research community.
The day will conclude with a facilitated networking lunch where researchers can identify synergies across different themes and explore potential interdisciplinary collaborations within the Sussex Chapter.
| Time | Session | Session descriptions |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00–10:15 | Welcome and introduction | Prof Erika Mancini, Director for ECRs, University of Sussex Welcome to participants and introduction to the Sussex Chapter of the British Academy Early Career Researcher Network. Overview of the Network’s purpose, Sussex’s role in the South East consortium, and how the Chapter will support early career researchers locally. |
| 10:15–10:45 | British Academy ECR Network: opportunities and funding | Paula Back, British Academy ECR Network Regional Coordinator Overview of the Network’s national offer, including funding schemes, training provision and opportunities for collaboration, and how researchers can engage with the Network. |
| 10:45–11:00 | Research development support at Sussex | Lucy Bell, Research Development Manager, University of Sussex Introduction to research development and funding support at Sussex, including guidance on identifying opportunities, developing competitive applications, and navigating institutional support. |
| 11:00–11:15 | Coffee break | Informal opportunity for conversation and reflection before the next session. |
| 11:15–12:00 | Case studies: securing funding and engaging with the Network | Short presentations from early career researchers sharing their experiences of applying for grants and lessons learned. 11:15–11:30 — Prof Veronica Martinez Hernandez, British Academy grant recipient Reflections on successfully applying to the British Academy, including developing a strong application and navigating the process. 11:30–11:45 — Dr Estelle Marks, Leverhulme Small Grant recipient Applying for and securing a British Academy/Leverhulme Small Grant. 11:45–12:00 — Dr Ugo Gaudino, British Academy ECR Seed Award recipient Insights into the British Academy ECR Network Seed Fund. |
| 12:00–12:30 | Lunch | Light lunch provided, with an opportunity to connect informally with other attendees. |
| 12:30–13:30 | Interactive workshop: envisioning the Sussex Chapter | Liz McDonnell and Lizzie McKinney, facilitators LEGO-based workshop exploring ideas for the Sussex Chapter, identifying priorities and shaping a shared vision. |
| 13:30–14:00 | Networking session | Open networking session to build connections, continue discussions, and explore opportunities for collaboration. Refreshments available. |
Target audience
Early career researchers working in the humanities, social sciences and arts (SHAPE disciplines), and University of Sussex staff who support ECR development.
Summer of Research 2026
This event is part of the Summer of Research 2026, a two‑week festival of researcher‑led talks, workshops and events celebrating the breadth and impact of research at the University of Sussex. The festival brings together researchers, students and professional services colleagues to share ideas, build connections and explore opportunities for future collaboration.
Find out about and sign up for other exciting events here!