Dedicated careers support for Oxford researchers to continue
Following the previous update that dedicated careers support for research staff would end in August 2026, the Careers Service is pleased to confirm that funding has now been secured to continue this provision for a further three years.
This investment will enable the Careers Service to recruit two specialist Careers Advisers who will provide tailored careers guidance and support for research staff across the University. We are grateful to colleagues across the University who have worked to secure this funding and recognise the importance of specialist careers provision for researchers.
What researchers can expect
During the next three years, researchers will continue to have access to:
- Dedicated one-to-one careers guidance with specialist Careers Advisers
- CareerConnect, including existing accounts, online resources, appointment booking, and vacancies. Researchers' CareerConnect accounts will remain active throughout the transition
- Careers workshops, seminars, and employer events designed specifically for researchers
- Departmental and divisional talks, workshops, and other careers activities delivered in partnership with local colleagues.
More about careers support for research staff.
Transition arrangements
Now that funding has been confirmed, we will begin recruiting two new specialist Careers Advisers. We expect recruitment to take place over the coming weeks, with the aim of having both advisers in post during Michaelmas term.
There may therefore be a short transition period while recruitment is completed and the new team is established.
During this period:
- Researchers' CareerConnect accounts will remain fully active.
- One-to-one appointments will continue to be available, although capacity may be temporarily reduced while recruitment takes place.
- Departmental talks and workshops will continue wherever possible, with further events announced as the new team comes into post.
- We will keep researchers updated on appointment availability and the progress of recruitment.
Thank you
We would like to record our sincere thanks to Dr Suzi Black and Dr Chris Jeffs for their outstanding contribution to researcher careers over recent years.
Between them, they have supported hundreds of researchers through individual guidance, workshops, departmental events, and employer engagement, helping researchers navigate careers both within and beyond academia. Their expertise, commitment, and enthusiasm have made a lasting contribution to the University's research community, and we are extremely grateful for everything they have achieved.
Looking ahead
The Careers Service remains committed to supporting researchers at every stage of their careers, whether they are pursuing opportunities within academia or exploring careers beyond it.
Jonathan Black, Director of Careers said:
We are so pleased that dedicated careers support for researchers will continue. Oxford's researchers deserve specialist careers advice from advisers who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of research careers, and we look forward to welcoming our new colleagues and working with researchers, departments and Divisions across the University over the next three years.
