This blog is part of the Research Software Camp: Careers and Skills in Research Software series.
Why would I go on a placement?
You can learn new skills from leading experts at world-class facilities in HE, industry, and research centres, and deepen your expertise in:
· a novel research software engineering technique (like cybersecurity best practice)
· a particular specialist tool (like a high-performance computer library)
· a specialist technical skill (like continuous integration)
So, what is a knowledge exchange placement?
A placement is a visit to another work area outside of your organisation for a period of up to a week. ‘Knowledge exchange’ means that you are finding out how others work, learning new techniques, seeing new methods or experiencing new equipment, and bringing that knowledge back to your workplace.
Erik’s story: A new technique!
Erik Lacko, Research Technologist, University of Glasgow: “My placement was 3 days at the University of Birmingham, where I learned a specialist technique and in-depth data analysis from an expert. I also attended a facilities showcase where I networked with other technicians and facility managers. The experience has been highly beneficial for my knowledge and expertise, which I plan to further build upon at my home institution.”
How can I go on a placement?
Various grants and funds are available. The UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy has a specific fund available until March 2026 for technical professionals associated with UK Higher Education and Research Institutes: ITSS KE Fund. You should discuss this opportunity with your line manager.
Ruth’s story: How to handle requests for new work
Ruth Adewuyi-Dalton, Support Analyst, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford: “Our team is tasked with supporting the Liquid Handling Robotic system within our Research Unit; we are all IT specialists, and were keen to understand how another institution works with their scientists. Our host at the University of Warwick took us meticulously through two liquid handling systems, explaining in great depth how requests for new experiments are received and documented, how the system is set up and tested, and how the different components communicate and fit together."
How do I plan for a successful placement?
Ask yourself: “What do I want to learn? A new technique or equipment? How a different work area functions? What skills gap can I fill? Do I want to build a network?”
Ask your line manager: “What is going on in our own institution? Which other institution do you want me to work with?”
Ask other individuals or networks: “What would you want from a similar placement?”
Cantug’s story: Making connections
Cantug Bar, Senior Scientific Associate, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute: “I believe the three days I spent on the placement saved me weeks of research time to understand the complex basics of a new technique. The opportunity of networking in person was invaluable and opened up a potential avenue of collaboration.”
What makes a good placement fund application?
• Talk about vocational relevance (how the placement will help you to do your job!)
• Explain the benefit to your home institute (you are unlikely to be popular if you say, “I want to get some experience so I can leave this job and get a better paid option elsewhere”!)
• Stress the personal development opportunities (find out about best practice methods and sustainable ways of working).
• Value for money to the fund providers (stick within the guidance costs that the providers have suggested – get in contact with them if that information is not available).
I’m hooked, please tell me more about my next steps!
Find out more about how you can experience a knowledge exchange development opportunity by going to the ITSS KE Fund website.