Early Career Researchers (ECR)


Operational Research is widespread within the UK university sector, with academics pushing developments in OR techniques and having impact by engaging with industry. The Early Career Researcher (ECR) Network was set up to nurture OR research, connect early career researchers, and support OR in research institutions.

The ECR Network is a friendly and accessible environment for anyone who:

  • is in the early stages of their career in academia
  • feels they would benefit from networking within their peer group
  • wants to form connections with others who are further ahead in their career

The network aims to provide for academics in Operational Research and its related fields, as well as for those who are returning to work or study following a career break, or those changing career path.

The network aims to further the personal and professional development of those in the early stages of their career, through:

  • disseminating relevant information about upcoming opportunities
  • discussion of research ideas, developments, innovations, opportunities and issues
  • networking and peer-to-peer support
  • facilitating knowledge transfer and support for career and professional development
  • opportunities for presenting your work to peers in a supportive environment
  • providing help and advice when applying for research grants and/or jobs
  • signposting relevant events and conferences

The network actively encourages suggestions on the types of events and resources you, as an early career researcher, would like to be offered so that the OR Society can work to provide this. Please get in touch via the email address below.

It is the society’s hope that the ECR Network will be productive, inviting and supportive for all early career researchers.

Join us at our next event

10th-11th September 2023 – ECR Workshop (linked to OR65)

Venue: University of Bath

register here

Join us for a two-day workshop linked to OR65, where you’ll learn from leading researchers about applying for research funding, writing for publications, and the peer-review process. You’ll also have the opportunity to network with peers over lunch and dinner and ask questions of the experts. The event is priced to provide great value, and early applicants will secure their spot. ECRs who attend will receive a discount on their registration fee for OR65. Places are limited, so apply early to avoid disappointment. 

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Committee Members

Laura Boyle Chair
Luke Rhodes-Leader Secretary

Get in touch

We have set up a LinkedIn page to facilitate knowledge sharing and to keep you updated on future events. Please follow the link and click ‘join’ to become a member. We have also created the ECR Network email address [email protected] so that we can update you on the network’s activity, make you aware of possible mentoring opportunities and disseminate information about training, funding, careers advice and job opportunities that are relevant to you.

ECR LinkedIn