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<<First Name>>  this month's bulletin is packed with news, information and upcoming workshops.
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News

Are you an HDR student at Bundoora, looking for a place to live that has great facilities, a dedicated postgraduate club-style lounge and a community environment –all within a short walking distance to the campus. Living on campus means you'll have everything that RMIT Bundoora has to offer right on your doorstep. Check out the new accommodation at: www.unilodge.com.au/lodge/rmitbundoora.
 



RMIT have joined ORCID!

Thirty-eight institutions, including RMIT University, have joined ‘the Australian ORCID<
http://orcid.org/> Consortium’ as of 30 November 2015. The Consortium officially commenced on 1 January 2016. 

All RMIT staff and students involved in research are encouraged to obtain an ORCID number, which acts as a global unique researcher identifier. By doing so, you will enjoy the following features:
· unique (an ability to distinguish your research activities from those of others with similar names);
· free;
· quick to set up (just enter your name and email address to obtain an ORCID number);
· easy to maintain and connect with others (avoid unnecessary data-entry with controlled automatic data exchange between ORCID and member organisations internationally, including universities, publishers, funding agencies, research institutes and government agencies).

Many of your colleagues already have an ORCID number so join them now and start enjoying all the benefits!
 
 


New HDR candidature policy and procedures

The following HDR policy documents were approved by Academic Board on 7 December with a commencement date of 1 January 2016:

·         HDR candidature policy
·         HDR candidature procedure
·         HDR candidate progress management procedure
·         HDR – research training support procedure (replaces the former Minimum resources policy)

The revised policy and procedures are available on the Policy Repository and the instructions and forms will be available soon. The SGR current candidates website will also be updated over the coming weeks.

You will receive an email about the revised policy suite, with information about the changes and links to the policy, procedures, instructions and forms, once they are all available online. 

For enquiries please contact: sgr.candidature@rmit.edu.au
 
FameLab
Cheltenham Festivals and the British Council co-produce the FameLab International Final, which is held at the Cheltenham Science Festival each June. In 2014, the very first Australian FameLab competition attracted a diverse and vibrant range of early-career researchers, who took the FameLab stage to battle it to become competition winner.
The competition is open to anyone aged over 18 working in or studying science, technology, engineering or maths (known as 'STEM' subjects).
On line registration by Friday 19 February 2016.
http://www.britishcouncil.org.au/famelab/enter-competition/apply

The competition is open to citizens or permanent residents of Australia who are pursuing studies or working in a scientific field. Entrants may be:
·         graduate students (both MSc or PhD),
·         postdoctoral fellows, or
·         early-career researchers who have received MSc or PhD degrees within the last five years.
International (non-Australian citizen) scientists who are currently working or studying in Australia are welcome to apply, but they must be able to demonstrate a formal affiliation with an Australian institution.
Evidence must show that the research being presented by entrants has undergone at least two forms of relevant peer-review.
By taking part in FameLab you will inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, gain invaluable communication skills, and meet amazing like-minded people. Importantly you will also become part of an increasingly exciting network of scientists and engineers able to clearly and imaginatively explain their science to the general public.
 
2              COMMUNICATION TRAINING AND MASTERCLASS
One of the greatest benefits of the competition is the comprehensive training sessions that are offered to ALL contestants who are invited to attend one of the live events. The training sessions focus on developing media, presentation and communication skills and aim to empower individual scientists and researchers in speaking about their work to a wide range of audiences.
If you are a FameLab semi-finalist you will attend a half-day training session, followed in the evening by a public event where you will make your presentation in front of a supportive crowd (family, friends and fans all welcome!).
If you are selected as a FameLab Australia finalist, we’ll invite you to travel to Perth, where you’ll join the other national finalists for a hands-on training masterclass with our esteemed UK-based International FameLab trainer. There, you will learn why public engagement is important, develop invaluable media and presentation skills, and get the opportunity to network with scientists from many different scientific fields. 
 
3              TROPHIES
The Australian winner, runner-up and 'people’s choice' recipient will receive trophies at the Australian national final.
 
4              NETWORKING AND TRIP TO THE UK
The overall national winner will be given an opportunity to attend the Cheltenham Science Festival in the UK and compete in the FameLab international final!
Here, a world of opportunities will be opened up as you network with fellow scientists from across the globe. Each candidate will have the opportunity to meet other science enthusiasts and gain access to the FameLab Australia and FameLab International networks.
 

HDR Bulletin

Welcome back and wishing you all a productive and happy 2016.

We are very excited about the year ahead and are  busy planning a range of workshops that will support you now, as a developing researcher and beyond into your future careers.
 
The On Track website has been updated with a  list of workshops for the first months of 2016, keep checking in to ensure you don't miss out:  click here
 

The new RMIT Submission Central portal was launched on the 15th of January.

Submission Central is your one stop shop for information on ARC and NHMRC submission processes, including:

  • important dates
  • key contacts
  • supporting documents
  • administrative forms
  • R&I funding support

The pages will be updated as the funding rounds progress and more information is released by the funding agencies. 

For any queries regarding the funding schemes please contact preaward@rmit.edu.au


Statistical Consulting Service

The School of Science offers a statistical consulting service to all Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates. This consultancy service is supported by the School of Graduate Research.
HDR candidates, along with their supervisors, are encouraged to access the service early on during their candidature to discuss statistical issues and seek advice on planning the statistical aspects of a candidate’s research. Later consultations focus on assisting with data analysis, interpretation and reporting.
The service aims to support HDR candidates who require access to expert statistical advice. The service assumes a basic level of statistical knowledge covered by most introductory level statistics courses.

Eligibility
The eligibility criteria will change for all new candidates accessing the service for the first time in 2016. You must meet the following criteria to book an appointment.
 
All other programs, including postgraduate and undergraduate programs, are not eligible. The service assumes you have a foundational knowledge of statistics. This includes a working knowledge of sampling, data collection and management, basic statistical analysis and statistical inference. If the consultant feels a candidate lacks this foundation, they reserve the right to advise the candidate to complete an introductory level statistics course before resuming consultations.

Areas of Expertise
Our expertise covers, but is not limited to:
  • Research design and sample size estimation
  • Data collection and management
  • Survey and questionnaire design
  • Psychometric analysis
  • Basic statistical analysis and interpretation
  • Experimental research design and analysis
  • Advanced statistical analysis and interpretation
  • Statistical modelling
  • Use of statistical packages
  • Feedback and advice on statistical methods and results sections (thesis or publications)
If you require highly specialised support that is not well covered by the areas above, please contact the consulting service via the email below in order to determine if the necessary expertise is available.
Booking Appointments
To book the next available appointment, click on the following link. You will need to confirm your eligibility for the service.
 

Request an Appointment (RMIT login required)
 
For questions and further information, contact: smgs-consultancy@rmit.edu.au

 Events and Workshops

Human Research Ethics Workshops

For staff and student researchers wanting more information and advice about human research ethics review and approval at RMIT University.

Do you need to apply for human research ethics approval? If you plan to do research with people, their information or their tissue then the answer is ‘Yes’, and this workshop is for you. It will address the important questions for human research ethics applicants:
-          How to complete the application process
-          Where to get the information and documentation you need for your application.   

Participants will have the opportunity to discuss their own research project and the ethical and practical issues that need to be considered.

Human Research Ethics Workshops are held regularly . Places are limited at each session and you must register and receive a confirmation to attend a workshop.
Presented by Dr Peter Burke
Secretary, RMIT Human Research Ethics Committee
To register: http://www.rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=b6ne5nz1dma3
Contact: human.ethics@rmit.edu.au

For further information, feedback and general inquiries contact Peter Burke, 9925 2251
[Source: Peter Burke, Secretary, RMIT Human Research Ethics Committee]

 


Write that Journal article!

The Writing for Publication online, moderated module will guide you through the publishing process focusing specifically on writing for peer reviewed academic journals. It features a project-based learning model in which you will draft an article for publication with the benefit of peer and instructor feedback and support.

Key features

 

  • videos of highly experienced researchers discussing the publishing process, their publishing strategies, aims and motivations
  • a project-based learning model in which participants learn about academic publishing while drafting an article for publication with the benefit of peer and instructor feedback and support
  • a flexible, online format offering self-paced learning as well as moderated discussion and peer-to-peer based learning

Note, to do the module you'll need to have something to publish - such as research findings, a literature review or the like.
Next offering: first half of semester 1, 2016, 7 March – 15 April.
For more information see the webpage or contact Dr Robyn Barnacle.


How to prepare for confirmation of candidature

This workshop will outline how to prepare for your confirmation of candidature milestone review and what to expect at the review.
The elements of the confirmation of candidature process including the oral and written/project components of the presentation will be outlined. Common issues candidates encounter at confirmation of candidature will be discussed and ways to overcome them.

 Thursday 25th February 2.00-3.30pm


Presenting Your Research with Impact

This half-day program is designed to provide participants with the tools, techniques and resources required to deliver professional presentations showcasing their research. The workshop briefly covers a range of presentations research students may have to deliver and focuses on the core requirements of academic presentations. The workshop is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge they require to confidently present their research in multiple situations and contexts.
The interactive session includes workbook  and theory based learning, case studies and demonstrations, group-work and experiential learning. Participants are encouraged to bring materials they have used in previous presentations.

Monday 29th February 1.30pm-4.30pm
 


We are always interested in hearing your thoughts on what workshops you would like to see in the On Track program. You can contact us at:
research.ed@rmit.edu.au 

Orientation
Just started your PhD or Masters by Research degree?
You are cordially invited to the School of Graduate Research’s orientation session on Monday the 21st of March 10.00 - 12.30.
  • Find out important information to help you get started and get the most from your research degree
  • Meet other PhD and Masters by Research candidates and;
  • Enjoy lunch!
You’ll get to meet key staff from the School of Graduate Research as well as from other RMIT services areas including; careers, the study & learning centre and the Library.

A separate Bulletin will be issued prior to the Orientation, with further details including registration.
 
To register for these workshops and to see a full listing of all On Track workshops, please click here.

Admin Essentials

Candidature Management

2016 Enrolment 
If you have not yet enrolled for 2016, please check your student email account and follow the instructions in your enrolment reminder. If you are not enrolled by Friday 05 February and do not have an approved leave of absence, your enrolment will be at risk of cancellation for failing to enrol. 

You can check your 2016 enrolment, you can do so by logging into Enrolment Online (access this via your myRMIT). You will find your current class enrolments on the Programs and class enrolments page. 

Change of study load
Do you need to change your study load? You are no longer required to complete an Enrolment Variation form to change your study load - once you have your senior supervisors approval, you can email your HDR Administrator to organise your change of load. 

Candidates studying in Australia on a student visa should note that change of study load can only be permitted in exceptional circumstances - please visit the change of load webpage for more information. 

Please note you must use your student email account when contacting the University about your enrolment.  

Submission and Examinations

Submission for examination by maximum completion
You are expected to submit for examination by your maximum completion date or extension end date, if you have been granted an extension beyond maximum duration. This applies to all candidates at all times of the year. 

Candidate who have not submitted within 10 days of their maximum completion date or extension end date may be flagged as over maximum duration and receive a notification that their enrolment is at risk of cancellation.

Please note that if you are an international student studying on a student visa, your maximum completion date and extension end date have been reported to the Government. It is your responsibility to check your visa end date and ensure that it covers your extension and examination period.  
 

Thesis with Publications Declaration form
If your thesis includes a single authored publication or a co-authored publication by you, you must complete a Thesis with Publications Declaration form. This form is currently available as a downloadable pdf on the HDR forms website, under Submission and Examination.

If you have co-authored a publication you must gain the signature from your co-author/s, approving the usage of the publication in your thesis, or a signature from your Senior Supervisor approving the use of the publication on their behalf.

When lodging your thesis for Examination in Equella, this completed form should be uploaded separately from your thesis.

Amendment to HDR Submission and Examination procedure.
The following amendment became effective from the 9 October, and is only relevant when a candidate initially receives a C3 - revise and resubmit classification resulting in a revised version of the thesis/project requiring a re-examination.
 
Where a thesis/project receives a C3 classification – revise and resubmit, the re-examination is carried out on a pass/fail basis either with the original examiners, if they are willing to re-examine the revised thesis/project, or with one or two newly nominated examiners.
 
In order to pass, a revised thesis/project must receive two passing recommendations on the revised (same) version of the thesis/project.
 

Copyright © 2016 School of Graduate Research, All rights reserved.


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