As we move through the summer months, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on the energy and creativity that’s been flowing through our doctoral community - and to look ahead at how colleagues and students from the Doctoral College and academic departments continue to support connection, development, and wellbeing for our researchers.
A Season of Celebration and Creativity
This summer has seen a series of standout events that have brought our doctoral researchers together in meaningful and inspiring ways. From the Doctoral Celebration Evening to the Festival of Ideas, these events have not only showcased the incredible work of our researchers but also fostered a strong sense of community.
Many of these activities formed part of the Doctoral Research Culture Month in June, which celebrated the people, ideas, and achievements that shape our research environment. You can read more about the month’s highlights in the University’s announcement.
“These events are more than just milestones - they’re about building a culture of belonging and recognition,” says Oli Schofield, Head of Doctoral Researcher Development and Experience. “They’re the result of months of planning and collaboration between the Doctoral College and our doctoral students, who bring energy, creativity, and leadership to everything we do.”
One of the most talked-about highlights was the doctoral comedy night, part of a collaborative programme with Bristol and Bath’s doctoral colleges. Doctoral researchers took to the stage after a series of workshops with a professional comedy writer.
“It was totally outside my comfort zone - but so rewarding,” reflects Caitlin Naylor, Doctoral Research Culture & Development Officer and PhD student. “It was a chance to connect with people, share our research in a new way, and talk about big issues like EDI and mental health through humour. I’d jump at the chance to do it again.”
Supporting Progress: Writing Retreats and Coaching
Another major initiative this summer was the final-year writing retreat, which has now evolved into a six-month support programme. Eighteen final-year doctoral students took part in a structured retreat, followed by one-to-one coaching and ongoing writing days.
“It’s not just about research - it’s about recognising that life happens,” Oli explains. “We’re offering structure, reflection, and peer support to help students finish well.”
Caitlin, who joined the retreat just weeks before submitting her thesis, shared how powerful the experience was:
“I wish this had existed earlier in my PhD. It gave me space to reflect, connect, and take control of my final steps. The structure and support made a huge difference.”
Staying Connected
While many taught students take a break over the summer, there are opportunities for doctoral students to stay connected:
- Check out the Doctoral Development Programme hub
- Access to collaborative spaces and wellbeing support
- A variety of summer activities organised by the SU and Student Support: find out more online.
“We’re not trying to get everyone to do everything,” Oli notes. “It’s about offering variety - so that every doctoral student can find something that speaks to them.”
The Doctoral College will also be running the October induction for new doctoral researchers, with a full programme of workshops and networking opportunities.
Research Culture is Student Experience
A key theme that emerged from colleagues in the Doctoral College, is the deep connection between research culture and student experience.
As Oli puts it:
“If a doctoral researcher is a student, then their experience matters. Research culture is about creating an environment where people feel supported, recognised, and able to thrive.”
Caitlin adds:
“Before joining the team, I had no idea how much was on offer. I hear doctoral students say they wish they had support with certain things - and often, that support already exists. We just need to get the word out.”
Much of this work is made possible by the Doctoral College’s commitment to co-creation - working in partnership with students to shape a development programme that reflects their needs, interests, and ambitions.
A Thank You to Our Community
I want to take this opportunity to thank the Doctoral College team for their tireless work in designing and delivering such a rich programme of activities, and to the doctoral students who have contributed their time, ideas, and enthusiasm to make these events so impactful. Whether you’re a doctoral researcher, a supervisor, or a colleague supporting students - there’s something here for everyone. I hope this blog helps shine a light on the vibrant, supportive, and evolving doctoral culture at Bath.
Stay connected. Get involved. And have a great summer!
Contact me directly at pro-vc-se@bath.ac.uk if you have a question or would like to suggest future topics for my blog.
Respond