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PGR Community Hub

A friendly and informal interdisciplinary space for all Postgraduate Research students.

Welcome to the PGR Community Hub

Welcome to the PGR Community Hub

The PGR Community Hub is a space run by PGRs for PGRs. We host a range of events to allow PGRs from all faculties and at all stages of research to come together, share ideas and experiences and make progress on their research in a friendly, interdisciplinary environment.

We host a regular programme of Writer’s Groups, Accountability Groups, Discussion Groups and Practice Sharing Groups both online (via Teams) and in-person (Henry-Daysh Building), which are open to all Newcastle University PGRs.  

For Details & Booking: https://workshops.ncl.ac.uk/home

What happens at these events?

Accountability Groups

Staying motivated is easier together. Our sessions use something called a “body doubling” technique to keep you focused and accountable. Start by sharing your goal, work alongside the group in focused blocks, then check in at the end to celebrate your progress. It’s a gentle nudge to tackle those tasks you’ve been putting off!

Practice Sharing Groups

These groups are all about learning from one another’s good practice. Join fellow PGRs to share your experiences and pick up practical tips to help you navigate your PGR journey with confidence. Topics are set by the group and can cover everything from delivering better seminars to finding the right resources.

Discussion Groups

A supportive space to share the ups and downs of PGR life, connect with peers who understand, and realise you’re not alone. From first year worries to fourth year pressures, these groups offer a safe, informal environment to gain reassurance, learn how others manage similar challenges, and find out about relevant university support services.

Presentation Practice Groups

These sessions are designed to help you build confidence with presentations. Whether you have a conference paper to rehearse, want to overcome nerves around public speaking, or refine your delivery style, this is a friendly, low-pressure space to practise alongside other PGRs. By the end, you’ll leave feeling like a presentation pro… or at least a little less panicked!

Writers' Groups

Struggling to prioritise your writing, need a change of scenery, or simply want a quiet, uninterrupted space to focus? Join the Writers Group and set aside regular time dedicated to your writing in a structured, calm environment. Sessions begin with a moment to set your goals and warm up with freewriting, followed by focused work blocks to help you make real progress.

About the PGR Community Hub

The NUSU PGR Community Society are here to help PGR students connect and build a sense of community. It hosts a variety of events, from social activities that let you unwind and have fun, to non-academic training sessions that support your personal and professional development. To find out more about the NUSU PGR Community Society,  check out their webpage

Get in touch

If you’d like to get involved, we can add you to the PGR Community Hub Teams channel - just send us an email. For any queries, please contact doctoralcollege@newcastle.ac.uk