Introduction

Possibly as a consequence of the extremely successful Winter/Christmas social function we have doubled the number of members of the PGR community. Several PGR’s have expressed concern about the announcements of job cuts at the university and the closure of the facility at Southend.

Goals

What were you hoping to do/achieve this month?

1. Host at the PGR Winter/Christmas Social event.
2. Publish a blog which includes an email address for the PGR SCO.

What have I done this month? 

1. Hosted at the PGR Winter/Christmas Social event.
2. Attended the EGM to question the Vice Chancellor on her plans; in particular how they may affect Postgraduate Researchers.
3. Attended a meeting of the University and College Union (UCU) for PGRs to get a better understanding of concerns; particularly in reference to loss of lecturing opportunities and PhD Supervisors.
4. Received confirmation of access to the PGR Community Officer’s mailbox – PGRStudentOfficer@Essex.ac.uk

What can we expect in the next month?

PGR Social 20 January 2025 in the Atrium.