Newsletter Issue - 09-10-2026

CDT Weekly Newsletter


Welcome to this week’s issue of the newsletter.



Reminder: PGR Induction Feedback Questionnaire


Feedback from PGRs is invaluable in helping the Doctoral Research Partnerships Office understand your induction experience and identify opportunities to enhance future induction programmes.

You are encouraged to complete the Induction Feedback Questionnaire and share your feedback.
Your insights will help shape and improve the induction experience for future PGR students.



Bristol Doctoral College (BDC) Events and Opportunities


1. Viva Survivor

13 October 2026, 10:00 – 13:00, Online

The viva is almost the end of a research degree journey. A lot of work leads to this point, but often anxiety can mix with the sense of achievement at completing the thesis or dissertation. In this three-hour live webinar, you will learn:

•       realistic expectations for the viva

•       identify key practical steps to take before submission

•       explore practical strategies for preparation and the day of the viva.

Book you ticket here.

 

2. Trans and non-binary PGR drinks meetup

14 October 2026, 16:30 – 18:00, Senate House (PGR Hub)

Join us for an informal meet-up at the PGR Hub with drinks and nibbles. Contact Vanessa Marshall (vanessa.marshall@bristol.ac.uk) if you’d like to attend or be added to the mailing list for future events. 

 

3. PGR Film Club

15 October 2026, 18:00 – 21:00, Senate House (PGR Hub)

The PGR Film Club is a welcoming community for PGR students who love films. Each session features a different film, followed by a discussion led by guest directors and film enthusiasts.

The next screening will be In Which Annie Gives it Those Ones, by Arundhati Roy.

Have a film suggestion? Please share it via the film suggestions form.

Find out the list of upcoming screenings here.



University Challenge Try-outs 2026


12 - 14 October, 7:00pm, 1.40 Pugsley, Queen’s Buildings

Want to represent the University of Bristol on TV’s hardest quiz? Join us for a one-hour trial session and put your general knowledge to the test.
The University of Bristol team reached the semi-finals in the 2024-25 University Challenge season, with former CDT student Kevin Flanagan serving as team captain. Why not follow in their footsteps and give it a go?

All students are welcome.

For questions, please contact uob.quiz@gmail.com.




Campus Connect at TQEC


Wednesday 21 October, 10am - 4pm, Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus (TQEC)

Come and say hello at Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus (TQEC) for Campus Connect! The Bristol Doctoral College will be there throughout the day to answer your questions about PGR events, training, supervision and life in Bristol.

You can also meet teams from other support services, explore support stalls, take part in craft activities and interactive games, and drop into short talks with useful tips and advice.

A quieter session for students who prefer a calmer environment will take place from 10 - 11am.

View the full Campus Connect programme in the Student App .



Turing Internship Network - Applications close very soon


Application deadline: 11:00am (UK time), Tuesday 13 October 2026

A reminder for those still considering applying for the Turing Internship Network.

Find out more and apply here.



IEEE UK & Ireland Section Public Event 2026: Flexible Electronics in Healthcare


Thursday 15 October 2026, 18:30-21:00
Sloane Robinson Building, Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus

Join researchers and industry experts for an evening exploring the latest developments in flexible electronics and their applications in healthcare. Speakers include representatives from the University of Bristol, Imperial College London, University of West London and the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI). The event is advertised as being open to both IEEE members and non-members.

Further information about the event.

Please note: Registration via the organisers may now have closed. Anyone interested in attending is encouraged to contact the event organiser (faezeh.arabhassani@bristol.ac.uk) to enquire about availability before travelling.



World Mental Health Day

10 October 2026 - World Mental Health Day
Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change

At the University of Bristol, we recognise that mental health is just as important as physical health.

This World Mental Health Day, let’s take time to check in with ourselves, support one another, and continue building a culture where everyone feels able to talk openly about mental wellbeing. Together, we can create a healthier, kinder and more supportive university community for students and staff alike.  

Remember, support is available, and seeking help is a sign of strength.



Source Catering and Events Showcase

29 October 2026, 11:30am - 1:30pm, The Food Quarter, 1/F, Sloane Robinson Building, Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus

Students and staff involved in organising events are invited to a tasting session hosted by the Source Catering and Events team.
Sample a range of food and refreshments, including new menu options and mocktails, and share your feedback on catering that may be featured at future events in the Sloane Robinson Building.


Come along, enjoy a tasting session, and help shape the catering experience for future events on campus!
Book your place: https://forms.office.com/e/Ua7NxFS2yn 



Forthcoming Calendar of Events



UK AI Research Symposium