Connecting with your research community

As a graduate researcher, you’ll join a vibrant research community that is open and inclusive. We’re proud of our diversity—of age, gender and cultural background. And we have a growing number of Indigenous researchers across all our disciplines.

This diversity extends to our research interests and our research experience. But graduate researchers also have a lot in common. You’ll work alongside people with a shared passion to create new knowledge. You’ll share a strong work ethic, and the desire to build a better world.

You’ll feel part of a supportive and collaborative research network. You’ll have access to a broad skill set, where you can learn from others. You’ll be inspired by renowned experts and visiting scholars.

You will also share your own skills and your own ideas. You’ll have opportunities to mentor peers. And you’ll help others to solve their research problems.

There are also opportunities to work with researchers from other disciplines. We offer a broad and exciting range of multidisciplinary projects. These will enrich your research experience and extend your professional and personal networks.

We offer many social opportunities at our campuses, from clubs and societies to organised events.

Learn about the different ways you can connect with the broader research community.

Interdisciplinary research centres

You will have the opportunity to work beyond your field via our:

• Melbourne Interdisciplinary Research Institutes
• Hallmark Research Initiatives.

Both these groups facilitate research across multiple faculties and centres. Their aim is to solve society’s biggest challenges.

For example, the Affordable Housing initiative brings together researchers from many disciplines. Together, they’re exploring the complexity of housing systems.

Through these groups you can establish and grow relationships with:

• fellow researchers
• industry members
• not-for-profit organisations
• policymakers and government representatives.

Forums, seminars and international conferences

Many schools, departments and societies hold research seminars and forums. These events are a fantastic opportunity to present your research and to meet new people.

We also encourage you to present at conferences, here and internationally. And we can provide financial support to do this. For information, visit Study Away.

We have an extensive program of public lectures and events, where you can hear from inspirational speakers and visitors to the University.

You can also test your research communication skills at the Australia-wide Visualise Your Thesis competition.

The Graduate Student Association and student groups

The Graduate Student Association provides graduate students with representation, events, training and support. And they facilitate more than 100 graduate student groups. Student groups cover many disciplines, from genetics to philosophy.

Joining a group is a great way to connect with like-minded people. If you don’t see a group relating to your interests or discipline, you can always start one yourself.

The association also runs regular barbecues and social events including a much-loved Graduate Ball.

The Graduate Researcher Network

Connected with the Graduate Student Association, the Graduate Research Network organises:

• lunchtime events where experts share their ideas, experiences and strategies for research
• research-related working groups including writing groups.

Peer mentoring and support

There are many ways you can mentor other students. This can be an extremely positive experience for both you and those you support.

For opportunities, see:

• the Student Union’s Peer Support Program
• Mentoring Network web pages.

Volunteering

By volunteering, you can develop your professional networks and skills while contributing to an organisation. There are many ways to do this, including:

• joining community or youth outreach programs via your department or graduate school.
• assisting at events during the University orientation period.

See our webpage on voluntary work for a detailed listing of opportunities.