2013 UNSW Postdoctoral Researcher Handbook Never Stand Still
Research@UNSW
The e-zine version of this handbook is available on the Research@UNSW web Gateway: http://research.unsw.edu.au/postdoctoral-researcher-resources-and-support Hyperlinks to relevant information (resources, policies, forms etc) are available via the e-zine. Š Copyright, the University of New South Wales 2013 CRICOS Provider Code: 00098G UNSW ABN: 57 195 873 179 The information in this publication was correct at the time of publishing (February 2013).The University reserves the right to make changes as appropriate.
Contents
Welcome
1
1 UNSW Research Strategy and Priorities
2
1.1 B2B Blueprint to Beyond – UNSW Strategic Intent
2
1.2 UNSW’s Research Strengths
3
1.3 Importance of Postdoctoral Researchers
4
2 Research Management and Support
5
2.1 University Governance and Key Research Contacts
5
2.2 Research Support Units for Postdoctoral Researchers Research Strategy Office (RSO)
8 8
Research Partnerships Unit (RPU)
9
Grants Management Office (GMO)
9
Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre (MWAC)
9
NewSouth Innovations Pty Ltd (NSi)
10
Graduate Research School (GRS)
10
Research Analysis, Performance and Profile Office (RAPP)
10
Researcher Development Unit (RDU)
11
Research and International Office at UNSW Canberra
11
2.3 Faculty Associate Deans (Research)
3 Research Guidelines and Policies
14
15
3.1 UNSW Guideline on Postdoctoral Researchers
15
3.2 Key Research Policies UNSW Code of Conduct
15 15
UNSW Research Code of Conduct
15
Intellectual Property (IP) Policy
16
Conflict of Interest
16
UNSW Travel Policy
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2013 UNSW Postdoctoral Researcher Handbook
3.3 Other Research Policies and Guidelines Paid Outside Work Policy
16 16
Research Centres
16
Higher Degree Research Supervision Policy and Guidelines
16
4 Resources for Researchers 4.1 Research@UNSW Web Gateway Publishing Your Profile on the Gateway
17 17 17
Postdoctoral Researcher Resources and Support on the Gateway 17 4.2 Latest News and Updates DVCR Bulletin
18 18
4.3 Research Funding Grant News
18 18
SPIN Research Grant Database
18
InfoED 18 Ethics Applications and Approvals
19
4.4 Publishing Your Research 19 ResPubs 19 Publication Impact Tools
19
Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
20
Authorship of Research
20
4.5 External Resources Guides for Early Career Researchers National Postdoctoral Association
20 20 21
4.6 Conflict Resolution Advisors on Research Integrity
21 21
4.7 International and Interstate Postdoctoral Researchers Australian Research Mobility Portal
22 22
Settling In at the UNSW Campus
22
Settling In at the UNSW Canberra Campus
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2013 UNSW Postdoctoral Researcher Handbook
5 Professional Development for Postdoctoral Researchers
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5.1 Researcher Development Unit
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5.2 U21 ECR Workshop Series
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5.3 Career Development Promotions and Performance Development Scheme
25 25
Academic Professional Development
6 Research Funding
25
27
6.1 Eligibility to Apply for Research Grants
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6.2 Major External Research Grants Australian Research Council (ARC)
27 27
National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)
28
Assistance in Grant Writing
29
Assessment of Track Record for Funding and Fellowships
29
6.3 UNSW Internal Schemes for Early Career Researchers Early Career Researcher (ECR) Support
29 30
UNSW Goldstar Awards
30
Travel Funds
30
Safety-Net and Bridging Fellowships
30
6.4 Externally Funded Research Fellowships 31 ARC 31 NHMRC 31 Other Externally Funded Fellowships
32
Strategic Advice on Fellowship and Grant Applications
32
6.5 Conference and Travel Funding
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6.6 Submitting Your Grant or Fellowship Application Applying for Ethics Approval
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Signatures 33
2013 UNSW Postdoctoral Researcher Handbook
6.7 Managing a Research Grant Meeting Contract Obligations
33 34
Salaries and Appointing Staff
34
Reporting Requirements
34
Budget Statements
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7 Glossary
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Welcome Welcome to the research community at UNSW. Postdoctoral researchers are key contributors to the research productivity and performance of the University. This handbook has been produced to assist you in navigating the researcher support available at UNSW. The University is committed to supporting all early career researchers to develop as independent researchers and achieve your research goals. In our complementary roles of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Training), we share responsibility for postdoctoral researcher recruitment, development and retention. As a postdoctoral researcher at UNSW you are taking the initial steps towards a career that is not only stimulating and varied, it will also contribute to understanding and shaping the future of society. This handbook has been developed to ensure you are fully informed regarding the opportunities and support available for postdoctoral researchers and to assist you in developing your research program and your career. The Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research), Mark Hoffman, oversees recruitment and retention of postdoctoral research fellows and development of research fellowship applications. The Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Training), Laura Poole-Warren, has responsibility for leading the development of UNSW’s researcher development framework with specific responsibility for the development and mentoring of postdoctoral and early career researchers. The handbook has been prepared by the Division of Research with input from postdoctoral researchers and contains information based on feedback from surveys. We hope that you find this a useful resource and would welcome feedback on how to improve further editions. We wish you a successful and rewarding time at UNSW. PROFESSOR MARK HOFFMAN Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research)
&
PROFESSOR LAURA POOLE-WARREN Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Training) and Dean of Graduate Research
1
1
UNSW Research Strategy and Priorities
1.1
B2B Blueprint to Beyond – UNSW Strategic Intent B2B Blueprint to Beyond – UNSW Strategic Intent forms the enduring and overarching strategy for the University. B2B underpins Faculty and Divisional strategic and operational plans, and its guiding principles and objectives inform our policies, processes and procedures. UNSW’s aspiration, as defined in B2B, is to continuously improve our position as a leading research intensive university in the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on contemporary and social issues through defined strengths in professional, scientific and technological fields. Within B2B, UNSW’s Research Objectives and Strategies are to continue to build on our position as a peer of the best globally in research performance, concentrating on defined strengths by: 1. Retaining, attracting and developing leading, internationally recognised research staff and distinguished visitors, to achieve “critical mass” of research activity in key areas 2. Providing an excellent research environment, with cutting-edge facilities and equipment 3. Increasing the number of higher degree research students as a proportion of our total student body 4. Publishing and communicating our research achievements in journals and outlets of the highest standing internationally, enhancing the reputation of UNSW and improving the profile of high-impact UNSW research and researchers 5. Developing and expanding research linkages with industry in Australia and internationally and encouraging strategic collaboration of our staff in areas of strength with the best in their fields globally 6. Achieving best practice in identifying and obtaining research support 7. Embedding professional values and integrity in our research culture
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1.2
UNSW’s Research Strengths UNSW has defined six areas of research strength and three areas of underpinning and emerging research strength listed below. These areas reflect international research excellence as measured by research funding, publications and research outputs, citations, and HDR students. These areas are regularly reviewed by the Vice-President & Deputy ViceChancellor (Research).
Areas of Research Strength àà
Biomedical Sciences
àà
Water, Environment, Sustainability
àà
Next Generation Materials and Technologies
àà
Social Policy, Government and Health Policy
àà
Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), Robotics and Devices
àà
Business, Law and Economics
Emerging Areas of Research Strength àà
Fundamental and Enabling Sciences
àà
Contemporary Humanities and Creative Arts
àà
Defence and Security
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2013 UNSW Postdoctoral Researcher Handbook
1.3
Importance of Postdoctoral Researchers There are currently approximately 600 research-only staff employed at UNSW of which approximately 450 are Postdoctoral Researchers. These Postdoctoral Researchers are mainly (~80%) located in the Scientific and Technology disciplines (Faculties of Medicine, Science, Engineering and UNSW Canberra). The remainder work in the Faculties of Arts and Social Sciences, Law, Business, Built Environment and the College of Fine Arts. As indicated in B2B, retaining, attracting and developing leading research staff is a key objective of the University’s research strategy. The provision of a supportive and collegial work environment and the delivery of a range of support services, are major priorities of the University to assist the research and career development of Postdoctoral Researchers.
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2 Research Management and Support
2.1
University Governance and Key Research Contacts The University is governed by a Council representing University and community interests and led by the Chancellor. The President & ViceChancellor is the principal executive officer of the University and is responsible for the overall direction of corporate planning, budget activities and external relations. Under the Council, the President & Vice-Chancellor manages and supervises the administrative, financial and other activities of the University. Reporting to the President & Vice-Chancellor are two Vice-President & Deputy Vice-Chancellors who have responsibility for research and academic matters, and three Vice-Presidents who have responsibility for the operational and support functions of the University, as well as the nine Faculty Deans and the President of the Academic Board. A UNSW organisational chart is shown on the following page.
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2013 UNSW Postdoctoral Researcher Handbook
The University of New South Wales A snapshot of the key portfolios relevant to Postdoctoral Researchers.
Cou
Chan
Mr David
President & Vi
Professor Fred
President Academic Board
Vice-President & Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
Vice-President & Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research)
Professor Prem Ramburuth
Professor Iain Martin
Professor Les Field
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Students) Professor Wai-Fong Chua
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Mark Hoffman
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) Ms Fiona Docherty UNSW Library Nura Gili Learning & Teaching Unit Music Performance Unit
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Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research Training) Dean of Graduate School Professor Laura Poole-Warren Graduate Research School Grants Management Office Research Strategy Office NewSouth Innovations Pty Ltd Research Partnerships Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) Office Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre
Rector Australian Defence Force Academy
Dean Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences
Dean Faculty of the Built Environment
Acting Dean Australian School of Business
Professor Michael Frater
Professor James Donald
Professor Alec Tzannes
Professor Greg Whitwell
De College Ar
Profess How
uncil
ncellor
d Gonski
ice-Chancellor
derick G Hilmer
Vice-President Finance and Operations
Vice-President University Services
Vice-President Advancement
Mr Jonathan Blakeman
Mr Neil Morris
Ms Jennie Lang
Risk Management Finance Facilities Management IT@UNSW Internal Audit Institutional Analysis & Reporting Office Data Governance
Early Years Health Services Human Resources Legal & Compliance Sport & Recreation Venues and Events UNSW Global Pty Ltd UNSW Press Limited Residential Communities
Development Alumni Relations and Advancement Services Community Engagement UNSW Foundation Ltd US Foundation Ltd HK Foundation Ltd Media and Communications Marketing Services
ean e of Fine rts
Dean Faculty of Engineering
Dean Faculty of Law
Dean Faculty of Medicine
Dean Faculty of Science
sor Ian ward
Professor Graham Davies
Professor David Dixon
Professor Peter Smith
Professor Merlin Crossley
January 2013
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2013 UNSW Postdoctoral Researcher Handbook
2.2 Research Support Units for Postdoctoral Researchers The Division of Research delivers a range of services to support UNSW researchers and research activity. Professor Les Field, Vice-President & Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), has overall responsibility for the University’s research strategy and performance. He is supported by two Pro Vice-Chancellors, Research & Research Training. The Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor Mark Hoffman, has specific responsibility for international research strategy, research partnerships including affiliated research institutes, eResearch strategy, research ethics and research safety and effective promotion of the University’s research capability and research profile. Professor Laura Poole-Warren, the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Training) and Dean of Graduate Research provides strategic leadership in the direction, development and improvement of UNSW’s overall research performance through the administration of higher degree research and research training and in attracting and retaining outstanding higher degree research candidates and early career researchers to UNSW and has executive responsibility for the Graduate Research School and the Researcher Development Unit.
Research Strategy Office (RSO) The role of the Research Strategy Office is to enhance the University’s research performance and profile by working with Faculties, research teams and researchers. The Research Strategy Office assists in identifying opportunities for research funding, including awards and fellowships, and in ensuring the submission of high quality, competitive research grant applications by UNSW researchers at all stages of their careers. The Research Strategy Office provides workshops on specific grant schemes and holds a library of past successful applications which UNSW researchers can consult.
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Research Partnerships Unit (RPU) The Research Partnerships Unit facilitates and enables successful and sustainable partnerships that aim to deliver high quality outcomes for our partners and UNSW. We are responsible for the identification, establishment and effective management of Australian and international research partnerships with industry, governments, and affiliated institutions. Our approach is underpinned by a “partnership pathway� model that outlines the opportunities for engagement from student scholarships through to larger investments which may include consulting and contract research, ARC Linkage projects, technology commercialisation and sponsorship of UNSW Chairs and Research Centres.
Grants Management Office (GMO) The Grants Management Office is responsible for the efficient administration and reporting of all research grants at UNSW. The GMO coordinates submission of grants, ensures compliance with funding agency rules and regulations, and that researchers meet all funding body financial and progress reporting requirements. The GMO also contains the Ethics Secretariat.
Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre (MWAC) The Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre co-locates major research instrumentation in the University in a single, purpose-built, highgrade facility. The Centre houses the most important major instruments used in the Faculties of Science, Medicine and Engineering for the study of the structure and composition of biological, chemical and physical materials and also includes preparation laboratories, smaller instruments and computing facilities. In addition, it provides the technical/professional support for the instruments.
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2013 UNSW Postdoctoral Researcher Handbook
NewSouth Innovations Pty Ltd (NSi) NewSouth Innovations Pty Ltd commercialises research and technologies developed at UNSW. The NSi team work with UNSW researchers and industry partners from the earliest stages of research to ensure that technologies developed at the University have the appropriate patent protection and are commercialised to succeed as marketable products.
Graduate Research School (GRS) The Graduate Research School is the central administrative unit for all higher degree research students and their supervisors at UNSW. The School assists Faculties by coordinating and streamlining postgraduate research student administration and facilitating access to the wide range of skills and training support available from many service providers throughout the University. The School’s range of services include administering all aspects of research student candidature, scholarships, thesis examination, recruitment, information seminars and training programs and providing advice to potential and current students.
Research Analysis, Performance and Profile Office (RAPP) The Research Analysis, Performance and Profile Office portfolio includes coordinating and managing the University’s submissions to the Excellence in Research in Australia (ERA) government exercises, and providing strategic advice and data support to the DVC-Research on the University’s research performance and profile. The RAPP Office also supports the strategic positioning of UNSW in various world ranking systems such as the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the QS World University Rankings, and the Academic Ranking of World Universities more commonly referred to as the Shanghai Jiao Tong University Rankings.
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Researcher Development Unit (RDU) The Researcher Development Unit offers training and support for UNSW researchers, UNSW Canberra researchers, and researchers from affiliated institutions. The RDU is responsible for devising effective development opportunities to support researchers in building their careers and UNSW in its aspiration to “be a leading research intensive university in the Asia-Pacific region�. The broad range of learning and development offerings reflects the career path of researchers and the requisite skills and knowledge needed at each step; from navigating your way through the grant application process, creating a research strategy, approaches to publication, supervision, managing a project team and much more.
Research and International Office at UNSW Canberra The Research and International Office at UNSW Canberra works closely with the support units outlined above which are all located at the Kensington (Sydney) campus. This office is the first point of contact for Postdoctoral Researchers working at the Canberra campus.
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2013 UNSW Postdoctoral Researcher Handbook
Division of Research A snapshot of the support units in the Division of Research that are of most relevance to Postdoctoral Researchers.
Division
Vice-President & Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research)
Professor Les Field
Pro V Train
Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research)
Professor Mark Hoffman
Profe
General Manager (Research)
Barbara Chmielewski
Project Team
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Grants Management Office Director
Research Partnerships Unit Director
Research Strategy Office Director
Researcher Development Unit Manager
Daniel Owens
Warwick Dawson
A/Prof Laurent Rivory
Cecilia Stenstrom
of Research
Vice-Chancellor (Research ning) & Dean of Graduate Research
Executive Officer (Policy)
Bronwyn Greene
essor Laura Poole-Warren
Project Team
Executive Officer (Finance)
Andrea Burns
Graduate Research School Director
New South Innovations* CEO
Margaret O’Byrne
Dr Kevin Cullen * Controlled Entity
Research Analysis, Performance & Profile Office Director
Aleks Alimpijevic
Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre Executive Director
A/Prof Grainne Moran
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2013 UNSW Postdoctoral Researcher Handbook
2.3 Faculty Associate Deans (Research) Each Faculty has an Associate Dean (Research) who is responsible for coordination of the Faculty research on behalf of the Faculty Dean. This person is also appointed as an advisor in research integrity (see section 4.6). Faculty Associate Deans (Research) serve on the Academic Board Committee on Research. They are the direct point of contact for the Faculty with the Vice-President & Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research). The current ADRs are:
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Australian School of Business
Professor Roger Simnett
Faculty of Medicine
Professor Denis Wakefield
Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences
Associate Professor Kristy Muir
Faculty of the Built Environment
Professor Bill Randolph
College of Fine Arts
Professor Jill Bennett
Faculty of Engineering
Professor Nasser Khalili
Faculty of Law
Professor Janet Chan
Faculty of Science
Professor Chris Tinney
UNSW Canberra
Professor Hans Riesen
3 Research Guidelines and Policies
3.1
UNSW Guideline on Postdoctoral Researchers The UNSW Postdoctoral Researchers Support Guideline (http:// www.gs.unsw.edu.au/policy/postdocresearcherssupportguideline. html) was approved by the Academic Board in December 2010. The Guideline covers the University framework and support for Postdoctoral Researchers, consistent with the important role of Postdoctoral Researchers in the research community. This document covers definitions of postdoctoral researchers, expectations and the UNSW framework for support of postdoctoral researchers.
3.2 Key Research Policies All Postdoctoral Researchers must comply with the University’s policies and procedures. A full list of policies, including those outlined below, can be found at http://www.gs.unsw.edu.au. Links to relevant research policies and guidelines can also be found on the Research@UNSW web Gateway at: http://research.unsw.edu.au/policies-and-procedures. A brief summary of the issues covered in the key policies that all Postdoctoral Researchers must be familiar with are included below.
UNSW Code of Conduct The University’s expectations of staff and affiliated personnel with respect to their professional and personal conduct.
UNSW Research Code of Conduct Obligations of all researchers with respect to data storage and retention, confidentiality, authorship and publication, supervision of students/research trainees, conflict of interest process and procedures for managing allegations of research misconduct and authorship disputes. The UNSW Research Code of Conduct is consistent with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research, which is administered jointly by the ARC and NHMRC.
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Intellectual Property (IP) Policy Outlines University policy with regards to ownership of IP, students and IP, exploitation of IP, moral rights, and resolution of disagreements over IP ownership.
Conflict of Interest Definition of conflict of interest and process for reporting and managing these conflicts.
UNSW Travel Policy Approval of absence from University, preferred travel providers, processes for booking fares and accommodation.
3.3 Other Research Policies and Guidelines Depending on the nature of their research and contract of employment, Postdoctoral Researchers may find the following policies relevant.
Paid Outside Work Policy Conflict of interest, time allowance, use of facilities and cost recovery, use of name, professional indemnity, IP, taxation, responsibilities for heads of units and staff
Research Centres Establishment, management and review of UNSW Research Centres
Higher Degree Research Supervision Policy and Guidelines Eligibility, roles and responsibilities of supervisors, co-supervisors and joint supervisors of PhD and Masters by Research students
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4 Resources for Researchers
4.1
Research@UNSW Web Gateway This website contains all research information at UNSW in a single portal. It should be your first point of reference in searching for information. http://research.unsw.edu.au
Publishing Your Profile on the Gateway A key feature of the Research@UNSW Gateway is the promotion and highlighting of UNSW’s researchers and their research. All UNSW researchers are able to publish an individual profile page on the Gateway. This is a valuable tool for promoting your research interests, attracting students and establishing links with other researchers at UNSW, as well as industry and other institutions. All UNSW researchers are encouraged to upload their profile on the Gateway. Instructions can be found at: http://research.unsw.edu.au/profile-page-faqs. If you have any queries regarding this process or would like any assistance please email researchgateway@unsw.edu.au. To view researcher profiles please visit: https://research.unsw.edu.au/researcher
Postdoctoral Researcher Resources and Support on the Gateway Please visit the postdoctoral researcher pages on the Gateway for information and resources including fellowship, conference and travel grant opportunities, as well as the e-zine version of this handbook which contains hyperlinks to all relevant information. https://research.unsw.edu.au/postdoctoral-researcher-resources-andsupport
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4.2 Latest News and Updates DVCR Bulletin The Vice-President & Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) releases a monthly research bulletin that is sent to all Deans, Associate Deans, Heads of School and Centre Directors to forward to staff in their areas. The bulletin can be subscribed to at https://research.unsw. edu.au/deputy-vice-chancellor-research-bulletin. As indicated in the UNSW Postdoctoral Researchers Support Guideline, all Postdoctoral Researchers should be listed on the appropriate School email lists so that they receive the latest research news and announcements.
4.3 Research Funding Grant News Grant News is an email bulletin of research announcements and all new funding opportunities, including travel grants, by discipline and category. The newsletter is distributed every two weeks. To subscribe to Grant News, email grantnews@unsw.edu.au with ’subscribe grantnews’ in the body of the email. Training sessions and advice relating to specific schemes are also circulated on Grant News.
SPIN Research Grant Database Allows researchers to access details about potential funding sources, both local and overseas. The search engine enables researchers to tailor their interrogations of the database.
InfoED InfoED is the UNSW system used to assist researchers and research administrators in the management of their applications and grants. You will only be able to access this tool if you are a named Investigator (or approved owner) on a research grant or fellowship grant. https://www.myresearch.unsw.edu.au/login.asp 18
Ethics Applications and Approvals All researchers requiring animal and/or human ethics approval for their research must lodge the appropriate documentation with the relevant committees via (i) Animal Ethics Online or (ii) Human Ethics Approvals. http://research.unsw.edu.au/units/research-integrity
4.4 Publishing Your Research ResPubs ResPubs is the UNSW publication management system. Access to the database is via UniPass login at https://respubs.online.unsw.edu. au/respubs/login.main. All researchers should check to make sure all their publication details are in ResPubs and enter those that are missing. This repository is used by the University to directly update your researcher profile on the Research@UNSW web Gateway and to report research performance to Government. Implementation of a new UNSW publications system is currently under development with a planned release in late 2013
Publication Impact Tools The University Library allows researchers to access standard publication analysis tools such as SCOPUS and Web of Science (http://www.library.unsw.edu.au/HowDoI/databases.html). Web of Science and Scopus deliver web based access to citation indexes such as H-Index and citation counts which are used to determine the research impact of individual researchers. These indicators are highly discipline-specific and Postdoctoral Researchers are strongly encouraged to discuss the relative merits of these indicators with their supervisor/mentor. Researchers can make an appointment with a librarian to use their Research Impact Measurement Service.
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Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) The ERA is an Australian Government initiative designed to assess research quality within Australia’s higher education institutions using a combination of indicators and expert review by committees comprising experienced, internationally-recognised experts.
Authorship of Research The authorship of research outputs, working as part of a team and in collaboration with a supervisor/mentor versus establishing an independent career are important issues that are frequently raised for Postdoctoral Researchers. Depending on your planned career path and discipline, the number and ordering of authors on publications may have an important impact on how your publications will be gauged by peers and assessors. Policies and forms related to research authorship can be found on the Research@UNSW Gateway at: http://research.unsw.edu.au/policies-and-procedures.
4.5 External Resources There are a number of useful external websites and portals for Postdoctoral Researchers:
Guides for Early Career Researchers Charting a Course for a Successful Research Career: A Guide for Early Career Researchers by Emeritus Professor Alan Johnson, who is an Australian researcher and academic. The book can be viewed here. http://cdn.elsevier.com/assets/pdf_file/0019/111835/charting-a-coursefor-a-successful-research-career.pdf
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National Postdoctoral Association While this American association’s website contains some information that is only relevant to Postdoctoral Researchers in the USA, there are general resources and articles that are relevant to all Postdoctoral Researchers. http://www.nationalpostdoc.org/home
4.6 Conflict Resolution From time to time conflict can arise in a working relationship between researchers, between students and more senior researchers or between a supervisor/mentor and mentee. Conflict can arise due to a difference of professional opinion, a different approach to addressing a research problem, a non-compatible work ethic or style, or conflict over the level of independence and direction of researchers who are working as part of a team. As a Postdoctoral Researcher, it is always important to discuss in person any issue as soon as it arises with your immediate supervisor/mentor, and document the outcome of discussions. If the conflict is not resolved, you should consult the Head of School or the Associate Dean (Research).
Advisors on Research Integrity The Faculty Associate Deans (Research) have been appointed Research Integrity Advisors by the Vice-President & Deputy ViceChancellor (Research). One of their important roles is to provide advice to researchers and assist in mediation between researchers if there is an area of disagreement on a research issue or on a point of interpretation regarding University policy.
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4.7 International and Interstate Postdoctoral Researchers Australian Research Mobility Portal A website to assist researchers moving to and from Australia, with links to funding opportunities and useful information. http://mobility. anu.edu.au/incoming/research_organisations. There is general information on visas, health care and taxation as well as linked information to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.
Settling In at the UNSW Campus The main UNSW campus is located in Kensington, in the eastern suburbs of Sydney. The University is approximately 25 minutes by car from Sydney airport, and 20 minutes from Sydney City Centre and is well-connected by buses. The closest train station is Central train station, and regular bus services connect Central to the UNSW campus. Information on Public Transport to UNSW: http://www.facilities.unsw.edu.au/getting-uni Campus Maps: http://www.facilities.unsw.edu.au/getting-uni/campus-maps Accommodation (short and long term): http://www.housing.unsw.edu.au/housing/ Your letter of offer of appointment will provide details of your contract of employment with the University, and a contact person in Human Resources, who will provide you with an information pack on arrival. This pack will contain important information on setting up your University email account (IT@UNSW: https://www.it.unsw.edu.au/), obtaining a staff identity card (FM Assist: http://www.facilities.unsw.edu. au/fm-assist), and building access (approval by the Head of School).
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Settling In at the UNSW Canberra Campus UNSW Canberra is located at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) in the suburb of Campbell on the east side of Canberra. The campus is 5 km from the City Centre and 2 km from the Canberra Airport. Public Transport in Canberra is provided by the ACT (Australian Capital Territory) Internal Omnibus Network (ACTION). Information on Public Transport: http://www.action.act.gov.au (Buses Number 9 and 10 will take you from UNSW Canberra to the city.) Campus Maps: http://info.unsw.adfa.edu.au/contacts.html Accommodation: (long term) http://www.allhomes.com.au Accommodation: (short term) http://sas.unsw.adfa.edu.au/future_ students/info/accommodation/ Your letter of offer of appointment will provide details of your contract of employment with the University, and a contact person in Human Resources, who will provide you with an information pack on arrival. You can obtain your University identity card and set up your University email account at the Information Communication and Technology Services (ICTS, Building 14: http://icts.unsw.adfa.edu.au). Building access is arranged through your School.
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5 Professional Development for Postdoctoral Researchers
5.1
Researcher Development Unit The Researcher Development Unit provides advancement and support for UNSW researchers. In 2013, the Researcher Development Unit will transition from a program based delivery model towards an integrated researcher induction/development framework based on the career path of a researcher, from student to research leader with a focus on four major categories of learning offerings: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Foundations Scholarly research Scholarly teaching Scholarly service
To keep up to date with the changes please visit the website http://research.unsw.edu.au/units/training-and-development
5.2 U21 ECR Workshop Series UNSW is a member of the Universitas 21 (U21) international consortium of research intensive universities. In 2010 the U21 Deputy ViceChancellors (Research) approved the introduction of a number of initiatives to enhance and improve the mobility of early career researchers in the network. A series of U21 ECR workshops are held annually, with 2-3 ECRs from partner universities, working in a themed research area, invited to participate in a range of researcher development activities. UNSW hosted the inaugural U21 ECR workshop in May 2011 on the theme of “Energy and Environmental Sustainability�.
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Recent workshops: 2011
“Healthy Living” at the University of Birmingham, UK.
2012
“Ecological Urban Design” at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China.
2013
Topic tba, workshop to be held at Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico
U21 ECR Travel Awards are open to UNSW ECRs (i.e., PhD awarded < 8 years) and Postdoctoral Fellows. The award consists of travel and accommodation costs to attend the workshops. Please check the website: http://research.unsw.edu.au/u21-researcher-mobility-programs for information regarding future workshops.
5.3 Career Development Promotions and Performance Development Scheme UNSW has implemented a Performance Development Scheme to provide all staff with the opportunity to review their performance, set goals and discuss career plans. All Postdoctoral Researchers should meet at least annually with their supervisor/mentor to review their performance.
Academic Professional Development Academic Staff Professional Development opportunities incorporate a range of development options tailored for each stage of the academic career.
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In addition to the information detailed in this handbook, other UNSW Units offer a range of development services which include:
UNSW Library http://library.unsw.edu.au/servicesfor/academic/rescon.html
Organisation and Staff Development Services http://www.hr.unsw.edu.au/osds/index.html
Learning and Teaching http://teaching.unsw.edu.au/about
Emergency and First Aid http://www.ohs.unsw.edu.au/ohs_training/index.html
Occupational Health and Safety http://www.ohs.unsw.edu.au/ohs_training/index.html
Workplace English http://www.careers.unsw.edu.au/
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6 Research Funding
6.1 Eligibility to Apply for Research Grants Depending on the nature of your employment contract, you may or may not be eligible to apply for competitive research funds. It is therefore essential that you carefully read the application guidelines and seek advice from the GMO if you are unsure of your eligibility.
6.2 Major External Research Grants The Australian Competitive Grants Register lists the major sources of funding available to support research in Australia. These grants are advertised in Grant News every two weeks (see section 4.3). A brief overview of the major Australian Government schemes is provided below. Please check that you are eligible to apply before preparing an application.
Australian Research Council (ARC) The ARC funds research and researchers under the National Competitive Grants Program (NCGP) which comprises two main elements â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Discovery and Linkage. (http://www.arc.gov.au/ncgp/ default.htm) The Discovery Projects scheme provides funding for research projects that can be undertaken by individual researchers or research teams. Linkage Projects support research and development projects which are collaborative between higher education researchers and other parts of the national innovation system, including industrial and public sector partners. Linkage Projects, which are undertaken to acquire new knowledge, and which involve risk or innovation, provide opportunities for collaborative research with the potential to achieve national economic, social or cultural benefits.
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Proposals for funding under Linkage Projects must involve a Partner Organization from outside the higher education sector. The Partner Organization must make a significant contribution in cash and/or in kind, to the project that is equal to, or greater than, the ARC funding.
National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) The NHMRC is Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s peak body for supporting health and medical research and has a range of funding schemes available. (http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/grants/apply-funding) Project Grant Scheme: This is the NHMRCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main avenue of support for individuals and small teams of researchers undertaking biomedical, clinical, public health or health services research in Australian universities, medical schools, hospitals or other research institutions. Within the Project Grant Scheme, the New Investigator initiative aims to support investigators who have not previously received significant research funding through a competitive grants scheme. To be eligible to apply in this category, all CIs on the application must not be named as a CI (or equivalent) on a previously funded NHMRC, ARC or equivalent grant. Some research projects, especially in the areas of biomedical and public health, may be eligible for support under a number of different schemes including NHMRC Project Grants and ARC Discovery and Linkage Grants. Postdoctoral Researchers should consult with mentors or the Research Strategy Office for advice regarding which scheme best suits their project and research profile, including track record.
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Assistance in Grant Writing Intensive grant writing advice is provided via the Researcher Development programs listed in section 5.1. You are also strongly advised to attend the Grant Information Sessions which also provide tips and insights into the features that characterise successful research grants.
Assessment of Track Record for Funding and Fellowships Track record is an essential component or area of evaluation in all Granting Schemes and Fellowships although there are subtle differences in how track record is evaluated for the different schemes. Postdoctoral Researchers should consult with their mentors, colleagues and senior Faculty researchers as to whether their track record is competitive for any particular scheme. The Research Strategy Office can also assist Postdoctoral Researchers to present their track record in the most compelling way possible in grant applications.
6.3 UNSW Internal Schemes for Early Career Researchers The funding available to support your research activities will depend on the nature of your contract and appointment at UNSW. Postdoctoral Research Associates employed on research grants generally have research costs covered by the research grant and there may be an inclusion to fund related conference travel. The decisions on how research grants are spent are in accordance with the granting body and are the responsibility of the CI. Postdoctoral Fellows are eligible to apply for internal UNSW research funding schemes subject to the specific terms and conditions of those schemes.
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Early Career Researcher (ECR) Support These funds are administered by Faculties under conditions specified by the Faculty Dean to support ECRs and the Faculty research priorities.
UNSW Goldstar Awards These awards are for near-miss ARC and NHMRC grant applicants and are awarded annually by the Vice President & Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research). Eligible Postdoctoral Fellows are automatically considered for these funds.
Travel Funds Postdoctoral Fellows should be accorded the same access to School funding schemes for conference travel as are accorded to other academics of equivalent academic status in their School.
Safety-Net and Bridging Fellowships There is a limited amount of funding to support Postdoctoral Fellows who secure a research grant but do not have funds for salary, or Fellows in the final year of their Fellowships who are actively applying for new Fellowships. This funding is on the recommendation of the Faculty Dean and Associate Dean (Research) and will take into account the performance of the Fellow, their alignment with School/Faculty research strengths and priorities and the likelihood of them securing another Fellowship or academic position. Fellows who think they may be eligible should first discuss their career options with the Head of School and the Faculty Associate Dean (Research).
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6.4 Externally Funded Research Fellowships ARC The major ARC Fellowships for Early Career Researchers are: Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA): The DECRA Scheme is for researchers who have been awarded a PhD within five years (or, commensurate with significant career interruption for maternity or parental leave; carer’s responsibility; illness; relocation due to international post doctoral studies; or non-research employment, have been awarded a PhD within eight years), of the closing date. (http://www.arc.gov.au/ncgp/decra.htm)
NHMRC The major NHMRC Fellowships for Early Career Researchers are: Early Career Fellowships: Applicants must have held their PhD for no more than two years, from the date of the letter advising that their doctoral thesis was passed unless career disruptions exist. For Clinical Early Career Fellowships the timing period is four years and for Health Professional Early Career Fellowships the timing is unlimited. (http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/grants/apply-funding/earlycareer-fellowships) Career Development Fellowship: Applicants must have at least 2 and less than 7 years post-doctoral experience (CDF Level 1) or at least 7 and less than 12 years (CDF Level 2) subject to career disruptions or industry placements. (http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/grants/ apply-funding/career-development-fellowships)
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Other Externally Funded Fellowships A range of other externally funded Fellowships (e.g., Cancer Council, Heart Foundation, CINSW) are available and advertised via Grant News. A full list of externally available Fellowships is available on the Research@UNSW Gateway website.
Â&#x192;Â&#x192; Strategic Advice on Fellowship and Grant Applications The Research Strategy Office can advise on the strategic elements of Fellowship and Grant applications. Such advice can cover deciding on the most suitable scheme for a specific project, the best timing for a Fellowship application in your career, how to sell your track record and how to structure your proposal for maximum effect. The Research Strategy Office provides workshops and training sessions for specific schemes and has a library of past successful grant applications.
6.5 Conference and Travel Funding There are numerous sources of funding available for researchers to attend conferences and/or travel overseas for field work or other research needs. A listing of funding sources is available on the Research@UNSW Gateway: http://research.unsw.edu.au/conference-and-travel-grants. Grant News also contains listings of awards and funds to support travel and conference attendance. For Postdoctoral Research Associates who are employed by a UNSW staff member on a research grant, there may be provision in the research grant to cover costs for conference attendance. Please consult with your supervisor. All UNSW employees who travel on UNSW business must comply with the UNSW Travel Policy.
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6.6 Submitting Your Grant or Fellowship Application Applying for Ethics Approval Applicants carrying out research that requires either animal or human ethics approvals should lodge their applications for approval by the relevant ethics committee as soon as possible. Failure to have ethics approval may delay release of research funds and commencement of the research. Further information can be found at: http://research.unsw.edu.au/units/research-integrity.
Signatures A Grant Application Lodgement Form (GALF) must be submitted to the GMO via the Head of School/Centre with all Research Grant and Fellowship applications. The GALF captures a summary of the key details of the application.You can download the GALF at: http://research.unsw.edu.au/policies-and-procedures.
6.7 Managing a Research Grant Once you have been awarded an external research grant, the GMO will facilitate all aspects of grant establishment and management. The GMO is organised into Faculty-based administrative teams. The Team Leader will update you when successful grants are announced and provide advice on the steps to be followed to release funds. These may include Head of School sign offs and legal review. You will be advised of your obligations under the research contract or grant at that time and then will receive advice and reminders throughout the life of the grant.
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Meeting Contract Obligations It is extremely important that you meet all research contract obligations in a timely and comprehensive manner. If, during the life of the grant, you find that you are unable to deliver the planned outcomes or you need to change the terms of the grant, you should raise this with the GMO at the earliest opportunity. Grants staff will assist you in negotiations with the funding body and any other necessary actions.
Salaries and Appointing Staff Each Faculty has a Human Resource Consultant who will assist you in determining salaries and appointing staff. The details of your Human Resource Consultant can be found on the Human Resources Website at http://www.hr.unsw.edu.au/services/personnel/ hrcs.html. Your School administration will assist you with day-to-day expenditure.
Reporting Requirements During the life of any grant you will need to report to your sponsor at least annually. The report will usually include both information on progress and information on expenditure. The Grants Management Office will put you in touch with your Research Finance Officer, on an ‘as needs’ basis and will assist you in meeting your reporting obligations.
Budget Statements The UNSW NSS Finance System will generate monthly finance statements and dispatch these to you by email during the life of your grant. Statements can also be provided by your School or generated through the InfoEd Research Grants Management System, which can be accessed at www.myresearch.unsw.edu.au using your Zpass and password.
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7 Glossary Common research abbreviations
ACGR Australian Competitive Grants Register
HERDC Higher Education Research Data Collection
ADR Associate Dean (Research)
InfoED Grant Management Database
ADFA Australian Defence Force Academy
LP Linkage Project Grant (ARC)
ARC Australian Research Council CI Chief Investigator CO Collaborating Organisation CoE Centre of Excellence (ARC) CoFA College of Fine Arts DP Discovery Project Grant (ARC) DVCA Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) DVCR Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) DECRA Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (ARC) ECR Early Career Researcher ERA Excellence in Research for Australia FASS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences FBE Faculty of the Built Environment FM Facilities Management
MIA Multiple Institution Agreement MWAC Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre NCGP National Competitive Grants Program NHMRC National Health and Medical Research Council NSi NewSouth Innovations Pty Ltd NSG New South Global NSS NewSouth Solutions (Student System) PI Partner Investigator PRSS Postgraduate Research Student Support PVCR Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) PVCRT Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Training) RSO Research Strategy Office U21 Universitas 21 consortium of universities
GALF Grant Application Lodgement Form GRS Graduate Research School GMO Grants Management Office HDR Higher Degree Research
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