#whywedoresearch It’s a nice hashtag – #whywedoresearch. But what does it really mean in an uncertain, insecure academic climate? How do we answer that question when on the bad days…
Written by Kathy McKay
How I found out, how NOT to be an academic
Recently I’ve been following the narrative about working hours in academia. What we talked about on the blog, and what you told us in a Twitter poll. What the brilliant…
Academic articles and non-academic inspiration
Academic articles can be inspired from some very non-academic places and sometimes inspiration can come from the strangest things… A little while ago, I wrote an academic paper examining the…
A Critical Ka-Pow – Researchers in popular culture
Researchers in popular culture have not only kicked arse and saved the world but have also worn brilliant cardigans Inspired by the 20th anniversary of the cultural touchstone that is…
Have academic career goals, will travel
Our correspondent, Kathy McKay explains her approach to the need for flexibility of location that so often comes along with having academic career goals. In my last post, I spoke…
The Academic Art of Minimalism
Minimalism can be a strange beast. Right now, my life’s possessions consist of: 1. one small tortoiseshell cat; 2. one (admittedly squished) wardrobe’s worth of clothes; 3. four blankets; and,…
Before you say Yes: 3 questions to ask yourself (And I’m not talking about marriage!)
Some academics do seem to be wedded to their research, but let’s leave the marriage metaphors aside. This post is all about choosing which academic work commitments you say ‘yes’…
Finding Your People: Mentors, Collaborators, and Guardian Angels
Who do you need? It is not always easy to get by in the academic world, especially when you are just starting out. I’m not one to normally question Simon…
Saying No: Why it’s important to be brave
As we begin 2017, perhaps some of you will have taken a seasonal break from your work. Or perhaps you worked right through: it can be hard to take time…
Going viral: 3 tips to help you through
Recently an article I wrote with a colleague went viral. We had media interest over two days from all over the world. There was even an article by the…