ECRI are pleased to open applications for a Student Partner opportunity to co-lead the Imperial Women’s Network Alliance. This exciting developmental opportunity will give you the chance to become a Student Partner and engage with the academic members of staff, including the Associate Provost (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion), to help shape the scope of the network and develop its activities and events.
*It should be noted that this is one of two student partner roles, which will be shared with the current network lead.
About the Imperial Women’s PhD Network
The Imperial Women’s PhD Network is a dedicated community within the Imperial Women’s Network Alliance (IWNA) that brings together women doctoral students across disciplines to share experiences, foster collaboration and to build peer support that strengthens both academic growth and personal wellbeing throughout the PhD journey.
Background
The Imperial Women’s PhD Network was created in direct response to the 2023 Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES), which revealed lower levels of satisfaction among women PhD students compared to their male peers. As part of the wider ‘Women PhD Perspectives Project,’ led by the Early Career Research Institute (ECRI) in collaboration with the Union and the Associate Provost for Equality Diversity and Inclusion, students themselves highlighted the need for stronger, more visible networks dedicated to supporting women doctoral and early career researchers. The network was therefore established at the request of students, for students, to provide a supportive community that reflects their voices and needs.
To read more about the mission of the network, please visit the website.
Remit of the Development Opportunity
The successful candidate will be awarded £1,000 per annum bursary top-up (10 monthly payments of £100 over the course of the year). As a Student Partner, you will play a central role in shaping a growing, student-led community. Alongside academic and professional services colleagues, you will:
- Co-lead and strategically develop the Imperial Women’s PhD Network, helping to shape its direction, priorities, and long-term sustainability
- Create meaningful opportunities for connection, support, and visibility, by designing and delivering events and initiatives that genuinely enhance the PhD experience
- Oversee the planning and delivery of flagship events, including an annual Women’s Showcase that celebrates achievements and raises the visibility of women in research
- Grow the reach and impact of the network, connecting with students across departments and encouraging broad, inclusive participation
- Develop valuable leadership, communication, and project management skills, while working closely with senior staff and influencing meaningful change
Who Can Apply
The development opportunity is open to Doctoral students who have completed at least their first year of study.
How to Apply
- Students wishing to apply for this opportunity should complete the online application form.
- The application deadline is Tuesday 12th of May 2026 @ 17:00.
- Any additional queries, please contact the Manager of ECRI Administration, Bethan Ritchie.
Read Help Lead the Imperial Women’s PhD Network – Become a Student Partner at the Early Career Researcher Institute (ECRI) in full
