GW4 Crucible is a fully-funded development programme for aspiring future research leaders to explore interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches to research through a series of interactive ‘labs’.
The theme of GW4 Crucible 2020 is ‘Interdisciplinary Approaches to Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance’. Whilst antimicrobial resistance (AMR) undoubtedly entails biological processes, the context which governs the action of these biological mechanisms is influenced by social, cultural, political, and economic processes. Biomedical and clinical expertise alone cannot tackle AMR and multidimensional approaches are needed to address the challenge. GW4 Crucible offers the opportunity for researchers across a broad range of disciplines to come together to generate innovative, multifaceted responses to address global challenges.
Now in its fourth year, the GW4 Crucible brings together around 30 competitively selected future research leaders to explore how they can enhance their career by working with researchers in other disciplines, how their research can have greater impact, and how they can develop their careers. Over a series of three residential workshops, known as ‘labs’, the researchers explore working in an interdisciplinary and collaborative way, and have the chance to connect with expert guest speakers, enhancing their professional networks and visibility.
Previous guest speakers include David Sweeney, the Executive Chair for Research England, who tweeted about the 2019 cohort:
“Fantastic group doing #GW4Crucible. Seriously engaged with Higher Education and Research issues. No worries about the future of universities with this level of understanding and enthusiasm.”
David Sweeney (@dsweeneyUK).
GW4 Crucible Alumni also shared their experiences of the programme: “it was a fantastic resource for me which has already helped me in terms of research collaboration/direction, decision making, and general release of academic stress!”
“I would recommend the GW4 Crucible to absolutely every researcher…it energised me, and I made real new friends.”
“I learned new skills and approaches. But more importantly, I met interesting colleagues. I’m looking forward to our future collaborations.”
Following GW4 Crucible there is the opportunity to apply for seed funding to support collaborative research projects discussed during the labs. Since attending GW4 Crucible several researchers have also been awarded fellowships and prizes. For example, Dr Des Fitzgerald from Cardiff University was selected to take part in the AHRC and BBC Radio 3 New Generation Thinkers Scheme.
Applications for GW4 Crucible 2020 are now open and information and guidance about how to apply can be found on the GW4 Crucible 2020 webpage. If you are a GW4 researcher with an interest in or expertise applicable to addressing AMR, we want to hear from you.
