Researcher in lab

DCU Researcher Career Framework

DCU is a major research institution that has gained worldwide recognition for the work of its researchers. The Research Career Framework (RCF) is a three level developmental pathway designed to support and guide researchers on their wider career path. It is designed to attract and retain the best postdoctoral researchers to DCU. 

 

rcf diagram
DCU's Researcher Career Framework
HR Excellence in Research logo

HR Excellence in Research - Awarded to DCU in 2015

The Research Career Framework aims to ensure that DCU remains a University of choice for top-class research and researchers in the future. 


Purpose of the Researcher Career Framework

The Researcher Development Framework (RCF)  is designed to enhance our capability to develop world-class researchers. It provides a structured framework that supports the professional and career development of our researchers by explicitly identifying the competencies and behaviours needed for success and progression. 

The RCF aims to ensure that DCU remains a University of choice for top-class research and researchers in the future. 

Participating researchers are facilitated in developing a set of valuable and transferable skills that will enhance their career opportunities both within and outside the university. The framework supports Principal Investigators (PIs) in delivering excellence in research at DCU.


Structure of the RCF

As above, the RCF has three clear levels of progression structuring the researcher career path. 

Level 1: Postdoctoral Researcher - up to a maximum of 4 years in duration

Level 2: Research Fellow - up to a maximum of 4 years in duration

Level 3: Senior Research Fellow - up to a maximum of 4 years in duration


Key Components

A researcher can spend up to

  • a maximum of 8 years in total on the Framework
  • no more than 4 years at each of the three levels  

Senior Research Fellows who successfully complete Level 3 are strongly placed to secure longer-term positions as senior researchers or academics in DCU or, alternatively, positions in industry or the wider public service


ALL ABOUT THE RCF