Early Career Researchers (ECR) 

Operational Research is widespread within the UK university sector, with academics pushing developments in OR techniques and having impact by engaging with industry. The  Early Career Researcher (ECR) Network was set up to nurture OR research, connect early career researchers, and support OR in research institutions.

The ECR Network is a friendly and accessible environment for anyone who:

• is in the early stages of their career in academia
• feels they would benefit from networking within their peer group
• wants to form connections with others who are further ahead in their career

The network aims to provide for academics in Operational Research and its related fields, as well as for those who are returning to work or study following a career break, or those changing career path.

The network aims to further the personal and professional development of those in the early stages of their career, through:

• disseminating relevant information about upcoming opportunities
• discussion of research ideas, developments, innovations, opportunities and issues
• networking and peer-to-peer support
• facilitating knowledge transfer and support for career and professional development
• opportunities for presenting your work to peers in a supportive environment
• providing help and advice when applying for research grants and/or jobs
• signposting relevant events and conferences

The network actively encourages suggestions on the types of events and resources you, as an early career researcher, would like to be offered so that the OR Society can work to provide this. Please get in touch.

It is the society’s hope that the ECR Network will be productive, inviting and supportive for all early career researchers.

Upcoming Events

ECR Workshop

7th September 2026

The ECR Network of the OR Society is holding a pre-conference one-day workshop at OR68, University of Nottingham. This follows on from previous successful ECR Workshops at OR60 and OR65. We will split the day into two halves, each focusing in depth on core parts of an ECRs role for professional development such as publishing research and grant applications. Both will be done in a hands-on way to help you see how it can improve your research skills. All ECRs, from late-stage PhD students to early-stage lecturers, are eligible to apply to attend. Fill out this form to apply for a spot.

Successful applicants will receive a link to register for the ECR workshop. Registration for the one-day workshop will cost £62.40. Registrants will then receive an email with a discount code to register for the full conference if they wish.

Apply here

Training

NATCOR is an independent educational institution, approved by The OR Society, that offers PHD-level courses for PhD students in operational research, as well as business analytics, statistics, finance, engineering, and computer science.

NATCOR Courses

ORS Annual Conference OR68: From Data to Decisions

8–10 September 2026
University of Nottingham, United Kingdom

For early career researchers, OR68 offers a supportive space to share ideas, test thinking, and connect with the wider OR community. The conference brings together researchers at different stages to exchange methods, feedback, and experience, helping you build confidence, visibility, and networks as your work develops.

Book Here

Previous Events

You can view some of our previous events on YouTube!

Committee Details

Keep up to date with the Network and get in touch with us via our LinkedIn Page!

Panel Session on funding sources for ECRs

A key challenge for Early Career Researchers is building a research portfolio, often requiring funding. This session explored available funding sources, the most suitable schemes for early-career academics, and opportunities for smaller grants to kickstart new research directions or foster collaboration.