Research News Last updated 06 October
Birmingham City University (BCU) is using a speed-dating style networking format to break down barriers and build career pathways for Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs) from Global Majority backgrounds - connecting them directly with employers from across the West Midlands.
Held on 30 September at The Old Library in Digbeth, The Talent XChange paired 16 PGRs with 17 employer representatives for a series of timed, one-to-one conversations, followed by interactive panel discussions.
The aim was to spark meaningful connections and showcase the value of research talent outside traditional academic settings.
The event forms part of BCU’s groundbreaking project, That’s Me!, which is tackling the underrepresentation of Global Majority students in postgraduate research in collaboration with the University of Wolverhampton.
The project is linked to a national initiative aimed at widening participation and removing barriers in research pathways.
“When I joined BCU, I was worried I wouldn’t be heard as someone from a Global Majority background,” said PGR Shameela Yoosuf Ali.
“I quickly realised there were lots of people like me, but That’s Me! has shown me that my voice matters and that my research has value beyond academia.
“I’m now more confident, more connected, and actively shaping programmes for other researchers like me.”
BCU alumna Sheila Chingono (pictured) is now a government lawyer and Magistrate.
She attended the event on behalf of the magistracy and civil service, stressing the value of creating spaces where researchers can speak directly to decision-makers.
“I’ve had so much fun listening to their stories,” she said. “They’re doing incredible work that has value outside of academia, especially in shaping government policy.
“For example, we’re trying to work out how best to use AI in the public service, and who better to lead that discussion than a PGR who has focused on AI.
“It would be great to see more employers here as events like this show how we can encourage the right people to join the right field after their research.”
Despite Global Majority students making up more than 25% of UK undergraduates, only around 1 in 5 go on to postgraduate research - often due to a lack of visibility, funding, and clear career routes beyond academia.
Dr Kamaira Jones, Employer Engagement Officer for That’s Me!, says the Talent XChange is helping to challenge those norms.
“PGRs are an exceptional talent pool,” said Dr Jones.
“They have so many transferable skills that can be applied in way that an employer might not necessarily think of such as project management and community work.
“Throughout this project, we’ve noticed a recurring theme that career options and pathways were unclear.
“Global Majority PGRs can also face barriers such as funding and sponsorship, so events like this can make them more informed whilst showing employers how valuable a PGR can be.”