PGR support networks
Find out more about the different support networks open to PGRs, including your PGR representatives and Hive Scholars.
PGR Representatives
The Student Union oversees the selection of PGR representatives (reps) in academic Schools, and the election of School-level reps to thematic rep positions with PGR Governance. You can find out more about PGR representation on the Student Union webpages and meet the current reps below.
You can get in contact with your PGR reps via their Sussex Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs) Feedback Padlet.
Juliet Ibekaku-Nwagwu
At the University of Sussex, Juliet represents Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs) on various subcommittees, including the PGR Experience Subcommittee, the Research, Funding, and Recruitment Subcommittee, and the Information Technology Subcommittee.
Hadil Alsaieri
I'm a PhD researcher in Management at the University of Sussex, with a research focus on the interrelationship between women’s entrepreneurship and psychological empowerment, across international contexts. As a PGR Representative, I work alongside my fellow reps to support the PGR community by voicing student concerns, facilitating communication with faculty, and contributing to initiatives that enhance the research environment. My role also involves actively engaging on EDI-related sub-committees to promote an inclusive and supportive academic experience for all PGRs.
Hannah Oh
I’m a PGR student in Informatics at the University of Sussex and a dedicated committee member within the research school. I contribute to both the PGR Recruitment and Funding Sub-Committee and the PGR Experience Sub-Committee. Representing the PGR student body, I am committed to ensuring your voices are heard. I work to address any challenges you encounter, communicate your feedback to the research school, and propose actionable strategies to improve the PGR experience at Sussex. Our collective goal within the research school and PGR Sub-committees is to create a more supportive and enriching atmosphere where you can not only excel in your research but also benefit from a wide range of opportunities, fostering a balanced and fulfilling postgraduate journey.
Hive Scholars
The Sussex Research Hive is the Library's designated area for researchers, open to all postgraduate researchers and research staff. It is located on the top floor of the Library and provides study areas, bookable study rooms and space for discussion and collaborative work.
Three Hive Scholars are appointed each academic year to support the area, engaging with researchers to find out what they want from their community, and planning events in response. Follow the Research Hive on X/Twitter @SussexResHive and read their blog to find out about the latest events and availability.
Buddy Scheme
You may also wish to explore the Buddy Scheme to help build yourself a support network. The Buddy Scheme is a peer-to-peer support scheme coordinated by the Students’ Union to help new students settle into life at University and in Brighton. New students are matched with current students, who provide informal support, and there is also a series of events for Buddies, including afternoon tea and day trips.
Meeting House
The Meeting House is not only a place for relaxation and socialising, but also the base for a team of chaplains. The chaplains aren’t just there for members of their faith, as they also support the whole community. You can talk to them about your own faith, any big questions about life or just enjoy the beautiful location and be alone with your own thoughts.
Setting up an Online Support Group
Studying for a doctorate is exciting but it can also be challenging, and having support from other researchers who share your experiences and understand what you're going through can be hugely beneficial. If researchers would like to set up their own support groups, then they can use the Guide to setting up a PhD Online support group. This guide was written by Claire Durrant, a researcher within the School of Education and Social Work, and based on her own experience of developing a support network within her School.