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Research Councils agree common terminology for postgraduate training funding approaches

Research Councils UK (RCUK) has today (7 August) set out Common Terminology  for the different approaches to funding postgraduate training taken by the seven Research Councils to provide clarity and consistency for postgraduate students and higher education institutions.

There are four main approaches to funding postgraduate training through the Research Councils: Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs); Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs); Associated Studentships; and Collaborative Training. The document explains the differences between these approaches and sets out the funding routes used by the Research Councils for these approaches.

The Research Councils continue to work together to share best practice and evolve their mechanisms for allocating and delivering postgraduate training. This common terminology builds on RCUK’s Statement of Expectations for Doctoral Training, published in June 2013, which describes the common principles for the support of all Research Council-funded students.

RCUK is currently finalising terms and conditions and associated guidance for training grants across all Research Councils, which will be published in autumn 2013, along with a common set of associated guidance. The intention is for these terms and conditions to come into effect for training grants starting in academic year 2014/15.

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Further information

Contact:
Katie Clark
Press and Communications Manager
Tel: 01793 444592 or email: Katie Clark

Notes to editors

1. Read the Research Common Terminology for Postgraduate Education  and the Statement of Expectations for Doctoral Training .

2. Research Councils UK (RCUK) is the strategic partnership of the UK's seven Research Councils who annually invest around £3 billion in research. We support excellent research, as judged by peer review, that has an impact on the growth, prosperity and wellbeing of the UK. To maintain the UK’s global research position we offer a diverse range of funding opportunities, foster international collaborations and provide access to the best facilities and infrastructure around the world. We also support the training and career development of researchers and work with them to inspire young people and engage the wider public with research. To maximise the impact of research on economic growth and societal wellbeing we work in partnership with other research funders including the Technology Strategy Board, the UK Higher Education funding bodies, business, government, and charitable organisations. www.rcuk.ac.uk.

   The seven UK Research Councils are:

   • Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC);
   • Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC);
   • Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC);
   • Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC);
   • Medical Research Council (MRC);
   • Natural Environment Research Council (NERC);
   • Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC).