Personal Development

Perspectives and Opinions on Cross-disciplinarity

This section contains links to some "food-for-thought" publications that may be worth reading if you aim to develop yourself as a "cross-disciplinary scientist".

 ‘‘Antedisciplinary’’ Science: https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.0010006&type=printable

Twelve tips for engaging with biologists, as told by a physicist: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-019-03961-y

Genetics Needs Non-geneticists: https://www.cell.com/trends/genetics/fulltext/S0168-9525(20)30161-X

The University of Edinburgh Institute for Academic Development

Institute for Academic Development provide a range of tailored workshops, advice and other opportunities for academic research staff.

Website: https://www.ed.ac.uk/institute-academic-development/research-roles/research-only-staff

Public Speaking

When asked, many people cite public speaking as one of their biggest fears. In fact, many renowned public speakers admit that they were once extremely anxious about speaking in front of groups.

Good public speaking is more than a performance. It is the result of: critical thinking, well-organized narrative, reasoning, research, preparation

In this course, you will study methods that help to reduce anxiety, build confidence, and customize a process which will results in successful speaking experiences.

This course is designed to equip you with knowledge of the principles necessary for formal public speaking with an emphasis on organization, evidence, language use, strategy, delivery, ethics, and effective use of media aids.

Website: https://www.edx.org/course/public-speaking-ritx-skills105x

The University of Edinburgh Institute for Academic Development research ethics and integrity pages

Research ethics and integrity underpins excellent research, and is at the heart of what constitutes good research practice. These pages collate information on relevant policies, codes of practice, training, guidance and support on research integrity, making them available in one place. The information is primarily directed for research staff at the University of Edinburgh.

Website: https://www.ed.ac.uk/institute-academic-development/research-roles/research-only-staff/research-good-practice/research-integrity

Global Research Ethics and Integrity

The Program is a joint project of members of Universitas 21, an international network of universities in 12 countries, which seeks to engage postgraduate students in considerations of ethical issues in a global context.

Website: https://greim.iad.ed.ac.uk/ 

Starting your small business

Starting your small business is an introductory course for anyone who has recently set up a business or anyone who is thinking of setting up a small business or becoming self-employed. The course covers topics including structures, customers and responsibilities and looks at the common features shared by successful small businesses, as well as the common pitfalls to avoid.

Website: http://www.open.edu/openlearncreate/course/view.php?id=2179

European Patent Office online training

Online training materials on patents and the European patent system.

Website: https://www.epo.org/learning-events/e-learning.html