These monthly newsletters aim to keep all member networks updated with news describing how to get involved, as well as information of relevant events, services and new initiatives from the RSC Networks team. If you require further information about any of the items in the newsletter, or have any comments or ideas for content please contact the Networks team.

Committee members and representatives are encouraged to disseminate this information, as appropriate, to colleagues and other members. E-alert request forms can be downloaded from the Useful Forms and Documents page. Up to date lists of members can be obtained by emailing the Networks Team.
 

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Dear Colleague,

Welcome to the April Networks Newsletter, our way to provide key dates for RSC activities, services and new initiatives to our member network committee members and representatives.


This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadline
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spotlight: Staff availability in the Networks team this month
  • Communications from across the RSC
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
05 May
08 May
16 May
28 May
31 May
26 June
03 July
Registration deadline for Voice of Young Science[
Analytical Research Forum standard registration deadline
Registration deadline for Anxious Reactions
Deadline for Inclusion & Diversity Fund applications
Deadline for May Research Development Grant applications
Deadline for Journal of Materials Chemistry Lectureship nominations
July deadline for Outreach Fund applications

Upcoming Events
 
18 May
26 May
26 May
31 May
08 June
14 June
29 June
MSDE Symposium 2023: Frontiers in Molecular Engineering
How can chemical scientists engage the public with the climate crisis workshop
Voice of Young Science workshop
Professional registration webinar
Analytical Research Forum
2023 Pay and Reward Survey opens for submissions
Science for Social Change: Engaging with Unseen Communities webinar

Spotlight: Staff availability in the Networks team this month
In this month’s Spotlight we wanted to give you a head’s up about staff shortages towards the end of May.
After around a year working with you all in the Member Networks Team, Barney will be moving to the Policy & Evidence Team at the RSC on 22 May.
This combined with our new Events Specialist Kathryn being on annual leave for two weeks starting that week too means that our capacity in the Member Networks Team will be drastically smaller whilst our new Member Networks Specialist is recruited. Therefore, there will likely be delays in responding to requests in this period particularly around events organising and contracts.
We apologise for any inconvenience this causes, if you have urgent requests regarding contracts please get in touch with the RSC legal team directly.
If you have any questions please contact us at networks@rsc.org.
 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Publishing and Careers teams. Please pass on to your networks where relevant.


Applied Polymers journal open for submissions

We are excited to announce that RSC Applied Polymers is now open for submissions. This new gold open access journal focuses on highly impactful applied polymer research. Plus, we are covering all article processing charges (APCs) until mid-2025.

Find out more on the Applied Polymers webpage.



2023 Pay and Reward Survey opens 14 June

All members will receive an email from our selected research partner, Research by Design from 14 June inviting them to participate. We strongly encourage all members to take part. The state of pay amidst the global cost of living increases is a serious challenge for many individuals and employers - but how does the chemical sciences compare?

Complete the survey and help us build a picture of the state of pay and benefits across chemistry. Everyone who completes the survey will automatically be sent an exclusive preview of the results later in 2023.

Find out more about our Pay and Reward Survey


Professional registration webinar – Wednesday 31st May 2023

Want recognition for your expertise, professionalism, and hard work?

The professional registration awards, Registered Scientist and Registered Science Technician, can raise your profile and elevate your confidence. Learn more about them in our upcoming webinar, which is designed to demonstrate how the awards can benefit you, as well as answer your questions.

Find out more and register for the Professional Registration webinar

 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter has been tailored to you, but the full version can be found on the Networks Newsletter blog. Please read the online version and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Debbie, Claire, Kathryn and Barney
Posted by Barnaby Slater on May 12, 2023 11:24 AM BST
Dear Colleague,

Welcome to the April Networks Newsletter, our way to provide key dates for RSC activities, services and new initiatives to our member network committee members and representatives.


This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadline
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spotlight: Introducing Kathryn
  • Diversity and Inclusivity resources for committees
  • Communications from across the RSC
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
07 April
14 April
17 April
17 April
21 April
30 April
02 May
05 May
08 May
16 May
Poster deadline for MSDE Symposium 2023
Deadline for LGBT+ Inclusion in STEM grant applications
Deadline for Emerging Technologies Competition entries
Analytical Research Forum early bird registration deadline
Registration deadline for MSDE Symposium 2023
Deadline for April Researcher Development Grant applications
May deadline for Outreach Fund applications
Registration deadline for Voice of Young Science
Analytical Research Forum standard registration deadline
Registration deadline for Anxious Reactions
 
Upcoming Events
 
05 April
19 April
26 April
27 April
18 May
26 May
26 May
08 June
Mentoring training
How to pick a PostDoc ChemCareers webinar
What is burnout, what to do about it and how to avoid it webinar
Grant Holder Perspectives: Tales from the Outreach Fund webinar
MSDE Symposium 2023: Frontiers in Molecular Engineering
How can chemical scientists engage the public with the climate crisis workshop
Voice of Young Science workshop
Analytical Research Forum
 
Spotlight: Introducing Kathryn
In this month’s Spotlight we introduce our newest team member: Kathryn Espino, Member Events Specialist
We are delighted to introduce our new Member Events Specialist Kathryn, who will be mainly responsible for supporting you in running your activities and questions about legal obligations and contracts. Here is what Kathryn said about joining:
“I’m very excited to join the Member Networks Team as an Events Specialist, and I’m already amazed at the volume of activity the groups conduct. These events are invaluable to the RSC, and I hope I’ll be able to provide guidance on good practice as well as ensure contracts protect our volunteers and the RSCs reputation. I look forward to more collaborative work in the future!”
We hope you join in welcoming Kathryn to the team! As always if you have any questions please contact us at networks@rsc.org.
 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Chemist Community Fund, Publishing, Industry, Careers, Outreach and Policy teams. Please pass on to your networks where relevant.


Chemist’s Community Fund : we’re here for you

A Chair from one of our Local Sections requested content about the Chemists’ Community Fund, which we thought would be prudent to include in your newsletter for you to please share with your Local Sections.

From everyday challenges to exceptional circumstances, the Chemists’ Community Fund has been here for every member and their family for over 100 years.

Whether you’re studying, working, taking a career break or retired, whether it’s personal or professional, mental, physical or financial – we’re here to help you through life’s challenges with confidential support or guidance that helps you face what’s in front of you with confidence. Our service is completely confidential – contact us through the link below or call 0800 084 3451 (UK Freephone) or +44 1223 853549 (International) to find out more.

Contact the Chemist's Community Fund team


Announcing two new RSC journals

We are excited to announce the upcoming launch of two new RSC journals dedicated to applied research:
Both new journals are gold open access. Plus, we are paying for any article processing charges (APCs) until mid-2025, so you can initially read and publish for free.

Read more about the new RSC journals



MSDE Symposium 2023: Frontiers in Molecular Engineering

Join us for this exciting hybrid virtual and in-person 1-day symposium in London, UK, on 18 May 2023 sponsored by Molecular Systems Design & Engineering (MSDE). Discover how molecular engineering approaches are driving significant breakthroughs across a broad range of research disciplines and applications, with a particular focus on sustainable development goals. 

We hope the event will provide ample opportunities to network and engage with the speakers, members of the MSDE Editorial Board and other attendees. Join us for some exciting discussions and to share your ideas with key members of the molecular engineering community.


Poster abstracts should be submitted by 7 April, and registration closes 21 April.

Find out more and register for MSDE Symposium


2023 Chemical Science Symposium date announced

We are delighted to announce that the next Chemical Science Symposium will be on 26-27 October 2023. This year’s theme is the Chemistry of Polymers, and we invite you to join us in London or online to be a part of the discussion.

Find out more about the Chemical Science Symposium


ChemCareers 2023: How to pick a PostDoc - 19 April

On 19 April at 12.30pm (UK time), one of the Royal Society’s inhouse career and professional development advisers and panel of experts will be sharing advice on things to consider when picking a PostDoc. This webinar is aimed at PhD students who are pondering their next steps in academia. 

Register for ChemCareers webinar



Anxious Reactions: How can chemical scientists engage the public with the climate crisis?
This hybrid workshop will explore the roles and responsibilities of chemical scientists in communicating climate change with different groups. We will consider how emotions like anxiety, frustration, hope, and guilt complicate this task – both for scientists and the public – and how we might navigate them. Participants will work together to develop actionable engagement plans for a range of experts involved in climate-related research and communication.
Runs from 11am-12pm (UK time) on 26 May. Register before 16 May through the link below.
Register for Anxious Reactions workshop.

Voice of Young Science Workshop- 26 May
Apply for your free place at Voice of Young Science Standing up for Science’  workshop on 26 May 2023 at Norwich Research Park.
This is a great opportunity for Early Career Chemists to find out how their work can reach a wider audience and have a greater societal impact as well as network with their peers.
Applications close on 5 May.
Register for Voice of Young Science workshop.

Call for Volunteers – Chemistry4Change
Chemistry4Change is an exciting one-hour digital workshop that connects young people (ages 7 - 11 years old) with chemical scientists who are at the forefront of sustainability. Designed and produced by Big Ideas and funded by the RSC Outreach Fund, we are looking for 4 chemical scientists to take part.

Big Ideas will support you on how to engage with this age group and will produce and run the digital school events and the 1:1 winners’ sessions. To give you an idea of the time commitment involved, please see below:
 
  • Introductory meeting with Big Ideas on Zoom (30 mins) 
  • Event rehearsal on Zoom (1 hour) 
  • Digital event on 3rd May from 10-11am or 2-3pm on Zoom (1 hour) 
  • A Zoom with one of the winning schools (30 mins, date to be agreed subject to availability of you and the school).

Registration closes 14 April.
Contact Chemistry4Change about the call for volunteers



 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter has been tailored to you, but the full version can be found on the Networks Newsletter blog. Please read the online version and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Debbie, Claire, Kathryn and Barney
 
Posted by Barnaby Slater on Mar 30, 2023 1:56 PM BST
Dear Colleague,

Welcome to the February Networks Newsletter, our way to provide key dates for RSC activities, services and new initiatives to our member network committee members and representatives.


This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadline
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spotlight: Hybrid Events Drop-In (video)
  • Diversity and Inclusivity resources for committees
  • Communications from across the RSC
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
06 March
07 March
09 March
27 March
28 March
30 March
31 March
31 March
01 April
14 April
17 April
17 April
March deadline for Outreach Fund applications
Deadline for e-alerts going out to additional Networks on 16 March
Analytical Research Forum Oral abstract deadline
Analytical Research Forum Poster abstract deadline
Deadline for e-alerts going out on 6 April to additional Networks
Deadline for Broadening Horizons programme applications
Deadline for Chemical Sciences in Sustainability essay competition
Deadline for Researcher Development Grant applications
Deadline for Local Section and Interest Group Top-Up Fund applications 
Deadline for LGBT+ Inclusion in STEM grant applications
Deadline for Emerging Technologies Competition entries
Analytical Research Forum early bird registration deadline
 
Upcoming Events
 
09 March
15 March
05 April
26 April
27 April
08 June
Managing career setbacks and redefining success in your career webinar
From laboratory to entrepreneur - building a company from your research
Mentoring training 9.00am – 11.00am (UK time)
What is burnout, what to do about it and how to avoid it webinar
Grant Holder Perspectives: Tales from the Outreach Fund webinar
Analytical Research Forum
 
Spotlight: Hybrid Events Drop-In (video)
In this month’s Spotlight we summarise the discussions and best practices from January’s drop-in session.
On 19 January we held a Hybrid Events Drop-in session to share experience and best practice for hybrid meeting planning between our members. The session started with talks from our panellists:
  • Dr Ben Lichman (Chemical Biology and Bioorganic Group)
  • Dr Julia Sarju (National Association of Disabled Staff Networks STEMM Action Group)
  • Mr Oliver Thomas (Peninsula Local Section)
  • Dr Miguel Jorge (Porous Materials interest Group)
Watch the panellists’ talks
This was followed by a discussion session amongst attendees sharing best practice and advice for organising virtual, hybrid and in-person events. The biggest take-home message was that each of these formats have their strengths and weaknesses and to carefully consider the aims and audience for your event before deciding on a format.
A summary of the discussion will be uploaded to the Useful Forms and Documents page in the coming week.
If you have any questions about hybrid events or want to share some best practice you’ve experienced please contact us at networks@rsc.org.
 
Diversity and Inclusivity resources for committees

Learn how to make your activities more inclusive and accessible for your members with our inclusivity quick guides. Whether you chair a committee, create communications, or organise events, our quick guides support you to help us make chemistry welcoming to everyone.
 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Chemist Community Fund, Publishing, Industry, Careers, Outreach and Policy teams. Please pass on to your networks where relevant.


Boost student career prospects with our Broadening Horizons in the Chemical Sciences programme

Our Broadening Horizons programme provides students and graduates from Black and minority ethnic backgrounds with the chance to explore career opportunities in the chemical sciences, receive valuable mentorship and industry experience with the help of leading industry partners.

Help us build on the success of the first cohort by encouraging your eligible students and graduates to apply before 30 March 2023.

Find out more

Access funding to improve LGBT+ inclusion in STEM

We have joined up with Science and Innovation Network (SIN) to address LGBT+ underrepresentation in STEM, with over £600,000 in funding from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

Our new grant project will offer 5–7 grants to pilot research studies, to actively study why LGBT+ groups are underrepresented in STEM – and how we can improve retention.

Please apply by 5pm (UK time) 14 April 2023.

Find out more and apply



ChemCareers 2023: From laboratory to entrepreneur - building a company from your research

On 15 March 12.30pm (UK time), entrepreneurs and the Royal Society of Chemistry entrepreneurship manager will be discussing their career paths and the topic of building a company based from your research. There will be a chance to ask questions and the webinar will cover:
 
  • what entrepreneurship is
  • the skills and attributes required
  • routes into setting up a company
  • sources of support and guidance

Find out more and register



Grant Holder Perspectives: Tales from the Outreach Fund, 27 April
Are you interested in applying to the RSC Outreach Fund, but not sure if it’s for you? Would you like to learn more directly from some of our grant holders?
Three of our grant holders are hosting this month’s online public engagement workshop (from 11am-1pm UK time on 27 April) from our series: Diverse Engagement for Diverse Publics. Come along with your questions or just to listen to our grant holders’ experiences of the Outreach Fund.
As a reminder the Outreach Fund is open with deadlines throughout the year to support chemistry engagement activities for both schools and public audiences.
If you have any questions get in touch with Geri Kitley via outreach@rsc.org.
Register for the workshop.


RSC participates in UN working group





The United Nations hosted an Open-Ended Working Group meeting in Bangkok, Thailand from 29 Jan – 3 Feb on the establishment of a Science Policy Panel (SPP) on Chemicals, Waste and the Prevention of Pollution. The RSC is participating independently in this process as an accredited UNEP organisation and is a member of the ‘Scientific and Technology Community.’




The meeting aim was for governments to discuss the ‘Scope’ and ‘Function’ of the future new science policy panel (SPP) for chemicals, waste and the prevention of pollution, and how the work to establish the panel would be organised over the next 2 years. 130 member nation states were in attendance and discussed these two areas of Scope and Function over 5 long days of negotiation; the outputs were achieved as draft texts which will be discussed back at member state level in the intersessional period, to be agreed at the next OEWG 2 meeting later in Q4 2023.  

Read a recent Chemistry world article on the SPP

Photos by IISD/ENB | Natalia Mroz

 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter has been tailored to you, but the full version can be found on the Networks Newsletter blog. Please read the online version and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Debbie, Claire and Barney
Posted by Barnaby Slater on Mar 1, 2023 1:52 PM GMT
Dear Colleague,

Welcome to the February Networks Newsletter, our way to provide key dates for RSC activities, services and new initiatives to our member network committee members and representatives.


This month’s Newsletter contains:  
Upcoming Deadlines
 
03 February
07 February
08 February
12 February
20 February
21 February
28 February
28 February
28 February
06 March
07 March
31 March
17 April
 
Deadline for UK-based networks’ financial reports
Deadline for e-alerts going out on 16 February to additional Networks
Poster abstract deadline for Applied Catalysis in the Circular Economy
Deadline for Applied Catalysis in the Circular Economy registration
Deadline for Undergraduate Research Bursary applications
Deadline for e-alerts going out to additional Networks on 2 March
Deadline for Polymer Chemistry Lectureship nominations
Deadline for Soft Matter Lectureship nominations
Deadline for Researcher Development Grant applications
March deadline for Outreach Fund applications
Deadline for e-alerts going out to additional Networks on 16 March
Deadline for Chemical Sciences in Sustainability essay competition
Deadline for Emerging Technologies Competition entries

Upcoming Events
 
01 February
08 February
16 February
23 February
28 February
07 March
30 March
RSC’s science culture vision for the chemical sciences focus group
Navigating imposter syndrome and its impact on confidence in careers webinar
RSC’s science culture vision for the chemical sciences focus group
From Goodwill to equitable and inclusive practice online workshop
RSC Mentoring training
Managing career setbacks and redefining success in your career webinar
Chemists in the Museum: Novel Spaces for public engagement workshop

Spotlight: Don’t forget to renew your RSC membership
In this month’s spotlight we want to remind you to renew your RSC membership as a requirement for volunteering with us.
With the new year ticking over it is membership renewal time! Regardless of when in the year you signed up to membership with the RSC, you will need to renew your payment from the end of the calendar year (31 December). This is crucial for you all as volunteers one qualifier is for you to be an active member. This will also affect your ability to run for future committee positions this year.
You can check and renew your membership by visiting the members’ portal and clicking the box titled “Renew Your Membership” and following the instructions.
Should you have any other questions about member renewal, feel free to get in touch at membership@rsc.org.

 
Video: Local  Section Day

Thank you to those who could attend Local Section Day both virtually and at Burlington House on 16 November. Interesting discussions were had around events planning post-pandemic and engaging network members.

We recorded the talks from our staff, which is available to you via the links below, starting with Jo Reynolds, (Director, Science & Communities) talking about our overall RSC strategy:

Watch Jo Reynold’s talk on RSC strategy
We also had Amanda Bailey (Manager, Education Strategic Programmes) talk about the RSC Education strategy:
Watch Amanda Bailey’s Talk on Education
Finally we had Anna Dearden (Manager, Chemists' Community Fund) talking about progress and next steps for the CCF
Watch Anna Dearden’s talk on CCF
Video: Interest  Group Forum
Thank you to those who could attend our virtual Interest Group Forum on 8 December. We mainly focussed on the changes to how you can communicate with your members in 2023, and answered your questions.

The meeting was recorded and can be viewed through the link below.

Watch the Video
RSC Prize Lecture Tours

As part of their prize, many RSC prize-winners deliver lectures across the UK and Ireland, providing an opportunity for winners to share their outstanding work, and in turn, for members of the community to hear about and discuss that work, meet with winners and develop new connections
At the end of 2022 we have launched a new web page that lists upcoming dates and venues for our prize lectures with the aim to increase accessibility and transparency.
Please feel free to use this page to find lecture tours near you and to advertise to your networks, the page will be constantly updated as the prize team organises more lectures.
See Prize Lecture Tours
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Chemist Community Fund, Publishing, Industry, Careers, Outreach and Policy teams. Please pass on to your networks where relevant.


Confidential addiction support now available

If you have concerns about a family member, colleague, or yourself relating to dependencies and addiction a confidential addiction support service is now available through your RSC membership.

We’ve partnered with leading specialist service provider, Rightsteps, to provide this confidential addiction service with online resources covering a wide range of dependencies, counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy sessions.

Find out more

Essay competition on the role of the chemical sciences in sustainability

The International Organization for Chemical Sciences in Development (IOCD), in collaboration with the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), is launching an annual essay competition on the role of the chemical sciences in sustainability, open globally to entrants under 35 years of age.
The theme for 2023 is “How can the chemical sciences lead the stewardship of the Earth's element resources?” Winning entries will be published in RSC Sustainability.
Essays must be submitted in English as a Word document, by 12am (UK time) on 31 March 2023 to essay@iocd.org accompanied by a completed Entry Form, which is available on IOCD's website.
Find out more


Journal of Materials Chemistry A, B and C celebrate their 10th anniversary

2023 marks the beginning of the tenth anniversary year of Journal of Materials Chemistry A, B and C as three separate titles. Get in touch with the editorial office if you have any ideas of how you can help us celebrate!
Get in touch with the editorial office


Emerging Technologies Competition 2023

The 2023 Emerging Technologies Competition is seeking agile innovators, start-ups and spin-outs across Enabling Technologies, Health, Energy and Environment categories who are ready to catapult their novel ideas to the next level and win £25,000 and post-event publicity and exposure. 

Applications will open on 20 February and close 17 April 2023.

Find out more and apply


Sustainable composites report launches in February

In February we are launching a report on sustainable Fibre Reinforced Composites, a £4bn market in the UK, for applications in automotive, aerospace, wind energy, hydrogen, defence, marine, construction and infrastructure, rail and oil and gas. In collaboration with the Sustainable Composites (a partnership between the National Composites Centre and CPI), we consulted with key academic and industry experts to provide an overview of the key challenges facing the sector in their production and manufacture, use and end-of-life and the opportunities for chemistry to move towards a sustainable future. This report raises awareness of the opportunities for chemistry research, innovation and collaboration in the UK, with key insights that are relevant to the global chemistry community.  
Keep an eye out on the RSC website for the report launch.



Mentoring training 28 February, 11.00am – 1.00pm (UK time)

Mentors find the experience of helping another member rewarding as they help them to grow and 'address their own challenges, considering their relationships at work and thinking of the future.’

Members (MRSC) and Fellows (FRSC) are eligible to sign up to become a mentor on our mentoring scheme. There is a mentoring training session scheduled 28 February.

Find out more



Chemists in the Museum: Novel Spaces for Public Engagement
Would you or your committee like to learn about public engagement with science in museums? Are your committee interested in novel and inclusive forms of science communication?
Join Nuzhat Tabassum from the Natural History Museum and Science London for an in-person workshop at Burlington House, London on science communication and public engagement in museum spaces from 11am-1pm (UK time) on 30 March.
Find out more and register

RSC attending meeting on UN Panel on Chemicals, Waste, and Prevention of Pollution

The RSC is attending the first in person meeting of the Open Ended Working Group for the establishment of a UN panel on chemicals, waste, and the prevention of pollution. Taking place in Bangkok, Thailand, this meeting will bring together member nations and UNEP-accredited stakeholders to discuss the scope and function of the new panel. The RSC is also participating in the Technical Advisory Group to provide specialist scientific expertise.

Read more on the RSC work with the UN panel process

 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter has been tailored to you, but the full version can be found on the Networks Newsletter blog. Please read the online version and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Debbie, Claire and Barney
Posted by Barnaby Slater on Feb 6, 2023 4:16 PM GMT
Dear Colleague,

Welcome to the November Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services and new initiatives.


We want to gauge the engagement of our volunteers with this newsletter. Therefore, please click on the short survey (<5 minutes) below to confirm you have opened this month’s Networks Newsletter. There is also an option in the survey to provide feedback on what we call the newsletter in the future to better emphasise the importance of the content.
Confirm you have seen this message

This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spotlight: Free student membership
  • Your Local Section Education coordinators
  • Updates from across the RSC
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
05 December
06 December
08 December
09 December
13 December
15 December
31 December
31 December
31 December
01 January
10 January
13 January
18 January
31 January
Deadline for Research Fund applications
e-alerts to additional networks on 15 December
e-alerts to own networks on 15 December
Register for Burlington Consensus 2
e-alerts to additional networks on 5 January 2023
e-alerts to own networks on 6 January 2023
Deadline for Researcher Development Grant applications
Deadline for ChemComm Emerging Investigator Lectureship nominations
Deadline for Chem Soc Rev Pioneering Investigator Lectureship nominations
Deadline for Local Section and Interest Group Top-Up Fund applications
e-alerts to additional networks on 19 January 2023
e-alerts to own networks on 19 January 2023
Deadline for Industry Technician of the Year nominations
Deadline for Local Section inserts into March Chemistry World
 
Upcoming Events
 
06 December
08 December
12 December
13 December
11 January
25 January
26 January
Inclusion & Diversity Forum
Interest Group Forum
Burlington Consensus 2- A new UN Science-Policy Panel for Chemicals, Waste and Pollution Prevention
Engaging Public Audiences Using Tik Tok workshop
Managing anxiety whilst job searching and making career choices webinar
Disclosure and Reasonable adjustments for job seekers and employees webinar
Chemistry and Plants: Creative Forms of Public Engagement online workshop
 
Spotlight: Free Student Membership
In this month’s spotlight we want to highlight that the RSC offers free membership to undergraduate-level students and apprentices. This message has been communicated through our student networks also but feel free to pass this information on to anyone interested.
To support the next generation of chemical scientists build strong professional foundations, free RSC student membership is now available to all Undergraduate students studying in the UK/ROI and all undergraduate students studying at an RSC accredited institution internationally. This includes individuals undertaking a relevant Higher National Diploma. To become part of our membership community, please visit members.rsc.org/student to complete an application and use the code CATALYST100 to waive the subscription.

Individuals undertaking an apprenticeship can also receive a free membership subscription by visiting members.rsc.org/affiliate and using the code APP100 to waive costs.

Please share this with your networks and help us to grow our community. For any further queries, please contact the membership team.

 
Your Local Section Education Coordinators

Thank you to all those who attended our Local Section Day online or at Burlington House on 16 November.

Many of our volunteers have been asking about who their Education Coordinator is for their area. Therefore, please find below a list of our Education Coordinators and which areas they cover. You can also find a map of them on the RSC Education website.
 
Rizwana Alvi East England East Anglia, Essex, Mid-Anglia
 
Beth Anderson Midlands East Midlands, Thames Valley
Laura-Alexandra Smith
 
Mid-South Scotland Edinburgh & SE Scotland, Glasgow & W Scotland, Tayside
Johanne Brolly Northern Ireland Northern Ireland
Joanna Buckley
 
North East England Hull & E Yorkshire, Central Yorkshire, Southumbria, Huddersfield, Sheffield & District
Stephanie Sdepanian
 
North East England Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Teesside, Lancaster & District
Dawn Gillies
 
North Scotland Aberdeen & N Scotland, Mid-Scotland
Katayune Presland
 
North West England Cumbria, Liverpool, Manchester & District
John O'Donoghue Republic of Ireland Republic of Ireland
Rita Buttegieg South East England Chilterns & Middlesex, Kent
Katie Nuttall South England Downland
Kate Whetter
 
South West England Bristol & District, Mid-
Southern Counties, Peninsula
Rebecca Laye
 
Wales SE Wales, N Wales, S Wales West, Mid-Wales 
Ross Christodoulou West England Birmingham & W Midlands, N Staffordshire


 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Global Inclusion, Prizes, Publishing, Careers, and Education teams. Please pass on to your networks where relevant.


Chemistry and Plants: Creative Forms of Public Engagement
Would your committee like to engage public audiences in novel and creative ways? Are you keen to widen your networks’ reach in science communication?

Join Eve Barro from Chelsea Physic Garden for an online workshop from 12-1pm (UK time) 26 January on how to engage publics with chemistry through plants and botanical gardens!

Find out more and register


Inclusion and Diversity Forum on 6 December 2022 

The Inclusion and Diversity Forum will take place on 6 December. Join us for a day of talks, interactive discussions, and highlights of our recent work on race and ethnicity, and disability and accessibility.

Although in-person registration has closed, the Forum content is also being made available virtually through live and on-demand viewing to registrants. Registration is required.

Find out more and register


Industry Technician of the Year Nominations open

Every year, technical staff make outstanding contributions to the chemical sciences. With their experience and passion, the work technicians do every day supports high quality science. All this deserves to be appreciated and celebrated – and our annual award does just that.

The Industry Technician of the Year award recognises technical staff for their role in the chemical sciences. The lucky winner is selected by the Industry Prizes Working Group and will be awarded £1,000.

The award is open to anyone working in a technical role in the chemical sciences in the UK or Ireland, no matter their career stage, and they don’t have to be an RSC member to be nominated.

Nominations are now open until Wednesday 18 January at 5pm (UK time).

Submit a nomination

RSC commits to 100% Open Access
 
The RSC announced in October that we aim to make all fully RSC-owned journals Open Access within five years. In doing so, we become first chemistry publisher and one of the first society publishers to commit to a fully Open Access future.
 
In 2023 and beyond, we will engage with partners and communities to evolve the open access landscape towards a model where the author does not pay article processing charges, but rather these are covered by institutional or funder level deals.

Read the Announcement


RSC Desktop Seminar Series: Interface of Chemistry & Biology
 
This series is a joint collaboration of RSC Chemical Biology, RSC Advances, Chemical Science, and ChemComm featuring a range of global speakers highlighting their research at the interface of chemistry and biology.
Register to watch on demand


RSC Chemical Biology Outstanding Paper Award winners announced

The Outstanding Paper Award recognises some of the outstanding work published in the journal, as well as the authors behind those articles. We are delighted to announce the first RSC Chemical Biology Outstanding Paper 2021 is awarded to Prof. Jennifer Andexer and her research group from the University of Freiburg.
The winning paper, chosen by the journal’s editorial board highlighted a bicyclic S-adenosylmethionine regeneration system applicable with different nucleosides or nucleotides as cofactor building blocks.
Find out more


ChemCareers Webinar Programme 2023

Run by the Career Management team, and available for all membership categories, ChemCareers is a monthly webinar series providing advice, access to experts and career inspiration. Next year's ChemCareers webinars will cover a range of topics, from managing workload to careers in biotechnology. Our programme starts with our Mental Health and Careers series in January.

Read the full programme


2022 Education Prize winners announced

The winners of the 2022 Excellence in Education prizes and Horizon Prizes for Education have been announced, celebrating inspirational, innovative and dedicated people working within chemistry education.
Celebrate the Winners


 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter has been tailored to you, but the full version can be found on the Networks Newsletter blog. Please read the online version and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Debbie, Claire and Barney
 
Posted by Barnaby Slater on Dec 1, 2022 10:44 AM GMT
Dear Colleague,

Welcome to the September Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services and new initiatives.


This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spotlight: Meet your Member Networks Committee
  • New Officer Drop-in Recording (video)
  • Early Career Chemists needed to attend the 2nd Commonwealth Chemistry Congress
  • Communications from across the RSC
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
01 October
03 October
10 October
11 October
13 October
25 October
27 October
31 October
07 November
28 November
30 November
Deadline for Local Section and Interest Group Top-Up Fund applications
October deadline for Outreach Fund
Deadline for Research Enablement Grant applications
E-alerts to go out to additional networks on 20 October
E-alerts to go out to own network on 20 October
E-alerts to go out to additional networks on 3 November
E-alerts to go out to own network on 3 November
Deadline for Researcher Development Grant applications
November Deadline for Outreach Fund
Deadline for STEM for Britain applications
Deadline for Local Section inserts into January Chemistry World
 
Upcoming Events
 
04 October
05 October
18 October
20 October
10 November
16 November
16 November
18 November
22 November
8 December

South East Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Good foundations careers webinar
Scotland Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Eastern Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Inclusion & Diversity in Public Engagement Workshop
Local Section Day 2022
Careers in agricultural production and food products webinar
PRIDE in STEM Community & Careers Conference and Community Workshop
Careers mentoring training session
Interest Group Forum

 
Spotlight: Meet your Member Networks Committee
In this month's Spotlight we explain the role of the Member Networks Committee and give a brief bio on its current members.
The Member Networks Committee (MNC) is a committee which reports to Member Communities Board (MCB) and are the connection between our network volunteers and the governance of the RSC. The responsibility for our member networks is delegated from our Board of Trustees (the Board formerly known as Council) to MCB.


MNC report to MCB on matters relating to member networks, such as activities, engagement and funding. The committee work with staff on any amendments and the implementation of the rules, new resources and support (including financial support) for our networks. They also provide a route to disseminate information on RSC strategy to our member networks through the Regional Steering Groups (RSGs) and the Interest Group Forum.

The discussions from the RSGs are reported to MNC highlighting regional activities and any issues for discussion. MNC then escalates any issues as necessary to MCB.

MNC consists of the Chair (from and appointed by the MCB), the Chairs of the 9 Regional Steering Groups (UK and ROI), 1 international Local Section Representative and 2 Interest Group Representatives. Your current Member Networks Committee is:
  • Dr Ellen Norman (Chair)
  • Dr Mark Gray
  • Dr Inmaculada Andres
  • Professor Sylvia Draper
  • Professor Patricia Forbes
  • Emeritus Professor Steven Hill
  • Dr Andrew Logsdail
  • Dr Sarah Myers
  • Dr Helen Ryder
  • Dr Fraser Scott
  • Dr Atualla Shegiwal
  • Dr Rehana Sidat
Read the full article with biographies on each MNC member on the Networks Newsletter blog, and if you have any questions or suggestions for public engagement activities please contact the Networks Team!
 
New Officer Drop-in Recording (video)

On 12 August we hosted a drop-in for committee officers explaining how the governance, individual roles, communication and legal responsibilities function.

Watch the presentation. Please feel free to pass this video on to any committee members considering an officer position.

Further guidance and resources for officers can be found on our website.  

 
Early Career Chemists needed to attend 2nd Commonwealth Chemistry Congress

Please distribute this call out to all relevant within your networks:
Are you an early career chemist in the UK? Does your work or research contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals?
We are looking for five early career chemists to represent the UK and present their work at the 2nd Commonwealth Chemistry Congress  in Trinidad and Tobago, 23–25 May 2023. Successful candidates will receive funding to attend the Congress and present a poster on their research, related to one of the three scientific themes:
  • Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3)
    Topics include biodiversity, natural products, food chemistry and security, agriculture, medicinal chemistry, drug discovery, and good health and well-being
 
  • Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12)
    Topics include sustainable energy solutions, new materials, biofuels, green chemistry, and catalysis
 
  • Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), Climate Action (SDG 13)
    Topics include water treatment and supply, tackling pollution and contamination, and environmental chemistry

Applicants must complete and return the application form to international@rsc.org by midnight UK time Sunday 23 October. We will notify successful candidates by 18 November.
Apply for the conference


 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Inclusion & Diversity, Prizes, Publishing, Careers, Outreach and Policy and Evidence teams. Please pass on to your networks where relevant.

LGBTQ+ Community Workshop and Celebration 18 November
The Royal Astronomical Society (RAS), Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and Institute of Physics (IOP) invite members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies within the physical sciences to join us for our Community Workshop & Celebration this November. This workshop will follow the PRIDE in STEM Community & Careers Conference at the RSC’s Burlington House (18 November), as part of a suite of events to celebrate LGBTQ+ in STEM Day.

This event is open to both in-person and online attendees. All attendees will have opportunities to share and celebrate good practice from the LGBTQ+ community, discuss the changing landscape for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the physical sciences, and network with LGBTQ+ scientists and allies.
Please do pass this on to any colleagues whom you think might be interested.

Contact diversity@rsc.org for more information or if you would like to reserve a space


RSC Prize Lecture Tours

As part of their prize, many of the RSC’s Prize winners deliver lectures across the UK and Ireland.
Details of upcoming lecture tours can be found of on the Prize Lecture Tour Webpage.

Read details of the tour


New RSC journals now open for submissions
We are excited to announce our new journals are now open for submissions: All three of these new journals are gold open access. Plus, we are paying for any article processing charges (APCs) until mid-2025, so you can initially read and publish for free.


RSC Advances Outstanding student paper award 2021

We are delighted to announce our winners for the RSC Advances Outstanding Student Paper Awards 2021.

These awards recognise outstanding work published in the journal in 2021, for which a substantial component of the research was conducted by a student. We received over 900 nominations, which were shortlisted, and the winning papers were then selected by our Editorial Board and Associate Editors. Below, we highlighted the winner of each subject category, and highlight the research paper that won them the award.

See the winners


Chemical Science symposium 2022: Sustainable synthesis and catalysis
 Under the banner of our flagship diamond open access journal, Chemical Science, we’ll be shining a spotlight on cutting-edge chemistry research and giving it the sort of attention that drives scientific progress and makes a difference.

This hybrid meeting is the next iteration in the Chemical Science symposia series hosted by the Royal Society of Chemistry.  We’re excited to welcome delegates back face to face at the home of the Royal Society of Chemistry, and look forward to a conversation enriched by the online participation of our international community.

We warmly invite you to join us in London, or online, on  November 2022, for the fourth Chemical Science symposium, and look forward to welcoming you to the discussion.
 
Paolo Melchiorre, Ning Jiao and Andrei Yudin
Conference co-chairs
On behalf of the Chemical Science Editorial Board


Find out more


ChemCareers: Careers in agricultural production and food products, 16 November 12.30 (UK time)

This webinar will cover opportunities available to chemical scientists from ensuring people have access to a plentiful supply of safe and nutritious food to cutting food waste. Experts working within the sector will be on hand to answer questions. Run by the Career Management team, ChemCareers is a monthly webinar series providing advice, access to experts and career inspiration – available for all membership categories.

You can register for this webinar below and find recordings of previous webinars in our ChemCareers library.

Find out more


Mentoring opportunities for members

Associate members (AMRSC), Members (MRSC) and Fellows (FRSC), as well as anyone with RSciTech or RSci status, have the chance to become a mentee, working alongside an experienced mentor in their field.
Benefits of being a mentee include:
• greater clarity around career goals and how to achieve them.
• gaining practical advice, encouragement and support.
• learning from the experiences of others.
• acquiring greater self-confidence and self-belief.
• pursuing personal and professional development and practical learning.
If you are interested in having a mentor, please refer to the mentoring webpage for further information and instructions on how to sign up.
Find out more


Mentoring training 22 November, 11.00am – 1.00pm (UK time)

Mentors find the experience of helping another member rewarding as they help them to grow and 'address their own challenges, considering their relationships at work and thinking of the future.’ Members (MRSC) and Fellows (FRSC) are eligible to sign up to become a mentor on our mentoring scheme. There is a mentoring training session scheduled 22 November. Our mentoring page contains further information about how to sign up to become a mentor.

Find out more



Outreach Fund and Chemistry Week – final call for 2022 applications

The final application deadlines this year are:
Outreach Fund – Monday 7 November
Chemistry Week – Monday 3 October
If you have any questions, get in touch with Geri Kitley via outreach@rsc.org

Find out more about funding


STEM for Britain
 STEM for Britain is an annual poster competition ran by the Parliamentary Scientific Committee, is open to early career researchers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. The event is run by aims to promote and celebrate the work of early career researchers.
Winners receive Gold (£1000), Silver (£750) or Bronze (£500).
Applications close on 12 noon on Monday 28th November 2022
Find out more

 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter has been tailored to you, but the full version can be found on the Networks Newsletter blog. Please read the online version and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Debbie, Claire and Barney
Posted by Barnaby Slater on Sep 29, 2022 3:25 PM BST
Dear Colleague,

Welcome to the August Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services and new initiatives.


This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • RSC Policy team:  Priority issues for assessment by the Science-Policy Panel and how best to involve stakeholders’ expertise (Burlington Consensus 2)
  • A Sense of Belonging in the Chemical Sciences (video)
  • Communications from across the RSC
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
05 September
05 September

06 September
08 September
19 September
30 September
30 September
01 October
03 October
03 October
September deadline for Chemistry Week Sustainability funding
September Deadline for Outreach Fund
Deadline for E-alerts going out to additional networks 15 September
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 15 September
Deadline for Inclusion & Diversity Fund
Deadline for Researcher Development Grant applications
Deadline for RSC Blue Plaque applications
Deadline for Local Section and Interest Group Top-Up Fund applications
Deadline for Research Enablement Grant applications
October deadline for Outreach Fund
 
Upcoming Events
 
06 September
12 September
14 September
14 September
20 September
21 September
21 September
21 September
21 September
26 September
28-29 September
04 October
05 October
18 October
20 October
North West Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Burlington Consensus 2 (see below)
Wales Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Mentoring Training
North East Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Ireland Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Volunteer Survey Drop-In (08:00 – 09:00 BST and 14:00 – 15:00 BST)
National Conference for Science Technicians
Careers in pharmaceuticals panel
South West Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
3rd Commonwealth Chemistry Poster event
South East Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Good foundations careers webinar
Scotland Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Eastern Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
 
Priority issues for assessment by the Science-Policy Panel and how best to involve stakeholders’ expertise (Burlington Consensus 2)

We invite you to join us on Monday 12 September 2022 from 10am-2pm  to help us inform and influence the development of a new United Nations Science Policy Panel (SPP) on chemicals, waste and pollution prevention – calling on your expertise. Please pass this on to your network as this is a top policy priority for the RSC.
 
In March 2022, the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA) 5.2 passed a resolution initiating the establishment of a science-policy panel to contribute further to the sound management of chemicals and waste and to prevent pollution. The RSC was key in influencing this outcome, with the UK an early co-sponsoring country.  
 
Following on from the success of the Burlington Consensus in January, at which the scientific community called strongly for the establishment of such a panel, the RSC and Defra are now hosting another open and interactive hybrid webinar session with UK and international participants. The aim of the discussion is to provide background and perspectives from the broad scientific community on how to incorporate international knowledge from all regions and the current issues of international importance that could be prioritised by the panel. The objective of the event is to garner ideas that can contribute to the Open Ended Working Group (OEWG) tasked with developing the processes and mechanisms of the panel, with the goal to officially establish it in 2024.

It is hoped that a new UN independent intergovernmental science-policy platform for chemicals, waste and pollution prevention can provide the formal processes required to build relationships and foster trust between the scientific and policymaking communities around the world to create impactful action on pollution prevention. If possible, we would appreciate if you could discuss the following issues with your networks before the workshop to ensure full representation of views and concerns: 
 
  • Current knowledge gaps in your field/sector?
  • Issues that need public/policymaker attention? 
  • How would you be involved in such a panel? Have you been involved in similar science panels in which case how were you involved?
  • What information about the authors of a report would be needed, including conflict of interest procedures, in order for the report to be credible to all?
  • How could reports from a panel benefit your field/sector? 
We are aiming to create a diverse group of stakeholders from all areas of chemicals, waste and pollution, and we would very much value your input.

Please let us know if you are available to attend by the 9th of September.


 Read more and register.

Please feel free to get in contact at policy@rsc.org with any questions.
 
A Sense of Belonging in the Chemical Sciences (video)

Earlier in 2022 the RSC published a report on “A Sense of Belonging in the Chemical Sciences”. Based on surveys and interviews with chemists, the report identifies the aspects, barriers and enablers of belonging in the chemical sciences as well as outlining the RSC’s commitments to improving belonging going forwards.

Senior Programme Manager in Inclusion & Diversity Lauren Crawford presents the report in a new video available on our YouTube channel.

Watch the presentation.

You can also read the original report.


 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Careers, Inclusion & Diversity and Outreach teams. Please pass on to your networks where relevant.

Mentoring training 14 September, 2.00pm – 4.00pm (UK time)
Mentors find the experience of helping another member rewarding as they help them to grow and 'address their own challenges, considering their relationships at work and thinking of the future.’ Members (MRSC) and Fellows (FRSC) are eligible to sign up to become a mentor on our mentoring scheme. There is a mentoring training session scheduled 14 September. Our mentoring page contains further information about how to sign up to become a mentor.

Find out more


ChemCareers 2022: Careers in pharmaceuticals, 21 September 12.30pm (UK time) 
There are a broad range of job roles available in pharmaceuticals for chemists both inside and outside the lab, in R&D, regulatory affairs, manufacturing, quality assurance, quality control, validation all the way through to marketing, and sales. Our panel of experts will discuss their roles where the growth areas are and opportunities. Open to all RSC members.

Find out more


Apply by 19 September for the RSC’s Inclusion & Diversity Fund
The Royal Society of Chemistry’s Inclusion & Diversity Fund offers grants to individuals and organisations, including members and non-members, for projects focusing on gender, disability, socio-economic background, language, race and ethnicity, the LGBT+ community, and more.

The deadline for our Inclusion & Diversity Fund is approaching. Help make the chemical sciences more inclusive and diverse and apply to our Inclusion & Diversity Fund for up to £5,000 before 19 September to help make your project a reality.
Find out more and apply


National Chemical Landmarks Scheme (RSC Blue Plaques) – last chance to apply for the 2022 round

Would you like to celebrate a person, team, organisation, innovation or discovery in the chemical sciences? Our Chemical Landmarks – awarded as distinctive blue plaques – celebrate impactful chemical science that is helping to make the world a better place. If you have an idea for a Blue Plaque you can apply until the end of September this year. Latest information and application guidance on our website.

Find out more and apply

You can also drop us a line: outreach@rsc.org for an informal chat about any nomination idea.


Chemistry Week 7 – 13 November 2022

Apply for a grant of up to £500 to run a Sustainability themed activity in Chemistry Week 2022.
Please also pass this on to your networks of people who might be interested. This year it is open to all in UK and ROI so do consider if, for example, there are any local community groups to you that might be interested in applying. The final two deadlines are 5 September and 3 October.

Find out more and apply


 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter has been tailored to you, but the full version can be found on the Networks Newsletter blog. Please read the online version and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Debbie, Claire and Barney
Posted by Barnaby Slater on Sep 1, 2022 3:02 PM BST
Dear Colleague,

Welcome to the August Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services and new initiatives.




This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spotlight: A reminder about following the latest guidance
  • New Officers’ Drop-In session
  • Postponed- Volunteer Survey Presentations
  • Communications from across the RSC
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
01 August
08 August
09 August
11 August
23 August
25 August
31 August
05 September
05 September

06 September
08 September
19 September
August deadline for Chemistry Week Sustainability funding
Deadline for applying to join the Chemists' Community Fund Committee
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 18 August to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 18 August
Deadline for E-alerts going out to additional networks 1 September
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 1 September
Deadline for Researcher Development Grant applications
September deadline for Chemistry Week Sustainability funding
September Deadline for Outreach Fund
Deadline for E-alerts going out to additional networks 15 September
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 15 September
Deadline for Inclusion & Diversity Fund

Upcoming Events
 
04 August
12 August
17 August
18 August

06 September
12 September
14 September
14 September
20 September
21 September
21 September
21 September
26 September
28-29 September
04 October
18 October
20 October
Member e-alerts
New Officers’ Drop-In session, 10am-12pm (BST)
ChemCareers 2022: Careers in data science
Member e-alerts
North West Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Burlington Consensus 2 Hybrid Event (more details to come)
Wales Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Mentoring Training
North East Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Ireland Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Volunteer Survey Drop-In
National Conference for Science Technicians
South West Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
3rd Commonwealth Chemistry Poster event
South East Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Scotland Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Eastern Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting

Spotlight: A reminder about following the latest guidance
This month in the spotlight we want to remind our officers of the importance of following the latest rules and guidance from the RSC.
We at the Networks team sometimes get emails from our volunteers saying that “this is how we have always done it” or “we’ve never had to do this before”, often in response to a reminder on current RSC rules and guidance.
We appreciate that our members are volunteers, and we try to make sure that we communicate any updates clearly to you through the Networks Newsletter. We seek approval from Member Communities Board for all updates to the rules and we only make changes when absolutely necessary.
We would like to remind our volunteers to review our current rules and guidance: Read the full article on the Networks Newsletter blog.
If you have any questions or are unsure about the correct procedure in a particular situation, please do email us at networks@rsc.org.
 
New Officers’ Drop-In session

The Member Networks team at the RSC will be holding an online drop-in session for our volunteer officers on Friday 12 August 10am-12pm (UK time). This drop-in is aimed at recently appointed officers of RSC volunteer committees, but all officers are welcome to attend.  
The Networks team will present a short talk on officers’ roles and where to find support. Then there will be an opportunity to ask any questions about our volunteer guidance and processes.
You will need to register to attend this drop-in. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. The meeting will be recorded so if you cannot make this time, you will be able to see a video version later.

https://rsc.zoom.us/meeting/register/u5Ulc-2pqj4sHtWLa9GTo8tPQiEi9wnpVVKe  


 
Postponed- Volunteer Survey

Due to staff illness, we unfortunately had to postpone our planned sessions presenting an overview of the outcomes of the Volunteer Survey. We are aware that many of our volunteers are busy during the following few weeks, so we will rearrange the sessions for Wednesday 21 September. To take into account the different time zones in which our volunteers live, we will deliver this presentation twice during the day, the first session will be at 08:00 BST and the second will be at 14:00 BST.
They will be held on zoom and will last an hour we will record the sessions and will share a recording of the presentation.
To join the sessions please use the links below (Both sessions will have the same content, so you only need to attend one):
Volunteer Survey – Wednesday 21 September 2022 (08:00 – 09:00 BST)
Volunteer Survey – Wednesday 21 September 2022 (14:00 – 15:00 BST)



 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Careers, Inclusion & Diversity and Chemists’ Community Fund teams, as well as RSC Publishing.



ChemCareers 2022: Careers in data science, 17 August 12.30pm (UK time)
As a chemical scientist, you’ll have experience in handling, analysing and modelling data. These skills can present opportunities for careers in a diverse range of areas such as the financial sector, healthcare, the environmental sector, manufacturing, the supply chain and marketing. Sign up for this webinar to find out more about careers within data science.

Find out more

Mentoring training 14 September, 2.00pm – 4.00pm (UK time)
Mentors find the experience of helping another member rewarding as they help them to grow and 'address their own challenges, considering their relationships at work and thinking of the future'. If you are a Member or Fellow and are interested in becoming an RSC mentor, there is a mentoring training session scheduled 14 September. See our events page for further information.

Find out more

The National Conference for Science Technicians returns for 2022

21 September 2022, 10.30am–4pm 
Leicester, UK 
 
Technicians working in any sector are invited to join us at the National Space Centre for a one-day conference in partnership with the Royal Society of Biology and the Institute of Physics. The conference is free to attend – if you know anyone who might be interested, across any technical role, pass along the information.

Registration closes 14 September.

Sign up for the conference

Do you have a great idea that could help make the chemical sciences more inclusive and diverse?
We believe that for chemistry to prosper, it must attract, develop and retain a diverse range of talented people. Chemistry should be for everyone.

Apply to our Inclusion & Diversity Fund before 19 September for up to £5,000 to help make your project a reality.

Find out more an apply

Register for 3rd Commonwealth Chemistry Posters (28-29 September)

This free online early career poster event is the only chemistry posters event that is delivered by and for Commonwealth countries.

Posters will be available to view for 48 hours with three live two-hour sessions to maximise networking opportunities between chemists from different countries.

This event is open to all Commonwealth residents and nationals. Encourage early career chemists within your network to submit an abstract or join us to discover talent from across the Commonwealth – you can also sign up as a judge via our website.

Places are limited so register early.

Learn more and register online

Call for Chemists’ Community Fund Committee Members- 8 August
There are currently a small number of vacancies on the Chemists’ Community Fund Committee.

This Committee has delegated authority from the RSC Board of Trustees, within an agreed framework and budget, to shape the work and increase the impact of the Fund. The Fund is proactively expanding its activity to achieve greater impact for our community.

To ensure that we maintain a balance of skills and experiences from across our membership on the Committee we are currently seeking those who have:
  • Experience working at a strategic level.
  • Experience as a member of another board or committee, including those outside of the chemical sciences, e.g., a charity focusing on social disadvantage, poverty, health, disability.
  • An empathetic understanding of the current issues that may be impacting the wellbeing of individuals and groups within our community, e.g., mental health, financial matters, diversity, and inclusion concerns.
  • Knowledge of existing support mechanisms available for key audiences such as students, Postdocs, those working in SMEs and technicians, and any gaps in provision.
  • The ability to support and challenge the Fund managers and staff.
  • Time to commit to the role. (Three full day meetings per year, usually hosted in Burlington House in London, but also hybrid via Zoom, as well as a small number of decisions supported via email between meetings).

Personal lived experience of poverty, disability or long-term ill-health will be welcomed, and we will also consider the diversity across the Committee members.

If you are interested in one of the few current vacancies please contact Anna Dearden, Secretary, Chemists’ Community Fund Committee, by Monday 8th August 2022, detailing how you meet these knowledge and skills requirements, and why you are interested in this opportunity.
Alternatively, after this date we would still be keen to hear from you about the Chemists’ Community Fund vacancies arising in the future.


Chemical Science Symposium 2022: Sustainable synthesis and catalysis

Under the banner of our flagship diamond open access journal, Chemical Science, we’ll be shining a spotlight on cutting-edge chemistry research and giving it the sort of attention that drives scientific progress and makes a difference.

This hybrid meeting is the next iteration in the Chemical Science symposia series hosted by the Royal Society of Chemistry.  We’re excited to welcome delegates back face to face at the home of the Royal Society of Chemistry, and look forward to a conversation enriched by the online participation of our international community.

We warmly invite you to join us in London, or online, in November 2022, for the fourth 
Chemical Science symposium, and look forward to welcoming you to the discussion.


Find out more and register




 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter has been tailored to you, but the full version can be found on the Networks Newsletter blog. Please read the online version and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Debbie, Luana and Barney


 
Posted by Barnaby Slater on Aug 15, 2022 11:21 AM BST
Dear Colleague,

Welcome to the July Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services and new initiatives.


This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spotlight: Predatory Conferences
  • Volunteer Survey- What have we learned?
  • Communications from across the RSC
  • Local Section Day- 16 November 2022
  • Our Inclusion & Diversity survey
  • Recruiting new committee members
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
04 July
04 July
11 July
12 July
14 July
26 July
28 July
31 July
31 July
31 July
31 July
31 July
01 August
01 August
July deadline for Outreach Fund
First deadline for Chemistry Week Sustainability funding

Deadline for Research Fund applications
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 21 July to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 21 July
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 4 August to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 4 August

Deadline for July Researcher Development Grant applications
Deadline for Local Section inserts into September Chemistry World
Analyst Emerging Investigators Lectureship 2022 close of nominations
Pioneers of Miniaturisation Lectureship 2022 close of nominations
JAAS Emerging Investigators Lectureship 2022 close of nominations
Second
deadline for Chemistry Week Sustainability funding

August Deadline for Outreach Fund
 
Upcoming Events
07 July
13 July
20 July

21 July
26 July
4 August
12 August
18 August

06 September
14 September
20 September
26 September
04 October
18 October
20 October
Member e-alerts
RSC Mentoring Training
Drop-in session on the results of the Volunteer Survey
Member e-alerts

Chemistry Careers in Sustainability
Member e-alerts

New Officers’ Drop-In session, 10am-12pm (BST)
Member e-alerts
North West Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Wales Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
North East Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
South West Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
South East Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Scotland Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
Eastern Regional Steering Group Autumn Meeting
 
Spotlight: Predatory Conferences
This month in the spotlight we focus on predatory conferences, particularly tips for spotting them in funding applications.

Predatory conferences are exploitative events which are expensive and offer little or no scientific benefit to attendees. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of predatory conferences, and in 2017 it was estimated that predatory conferences had started to outnumber legitimate ones.

Recently, a number of Member Network Committees have come across potentially predatory conferences when judging applications for travel or conference bursaries, therefore we advise that you demonstrate particular caution when assessing events that people are applying to attend. The organisers of these conferences are getting better at disguising their illegitimacy. Therefore, determining whether an event is predatory can be incredibly difficult.

Read the full article on the Networks Newsletter blog, including a list of things to look out for when assessing conferences in funding applications put together by our Grants and Events Teams.

If you have any concerns about predatory conferences please email the Networks or Grants teams at networks@rsc.org or funding@rsc.org respectively.

 
Volunteer Survey- What have we learned?

Thank you to everyone who completed the recent volunteer survey, we shared an overview of the responses with both Member Communities Board and Member Networks Committee and now we would like to share them with you. Magda van Leeuwen (Volunteer & Member Engagement Manager) and Fiona McMillan (Member Networks Manager) will present an overview of the responses on Wednesday 20 July 2022. To take into account the different time zones in which our volunteers live they will deliver this presentation twice during the day, the first session will be at 08:00 BST and the second will be at 14:00 BST.

They will be held on zoom and will last an hour we will record the sessions and will share a recording of the presentation.

To join the sessions please use the links below (Both sessions will have the same content so you only need to attend one):

Volunteer Survey – Wednesday 20 July 2022 (08:00 – 09:00 BST)
Volunteer Survey – Wednesday 20 July 2022 (14:00 – 15:00 BST)

 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Education Outreach, Policy & Evidence and Careers teams, as well as RSC Publishing.


RSC ITT Scholarship Scheme deadline

Our final application deadline is Friday 8 July 2022
The number of scholarships is limited. We will close the application process when we have reached capacity, so we advise you to complete your scholarship application as early as possible, to avoid disappointment.

Please note that if you are unsuccessful at any stage, you cannot reapply in the current application year.

Find out more about our teacher training scholarships


Chemistry Week 7 – 13 November 2022

Apply for a grant of up to £500 to run a Sustainability themed activity in Chemistry Week 2022.

Please also pass this on to your networks of people who might be interested. This year it is open to all in UK and ROI so do consider if, for example, there are any local community groups to you that might be interested in applying.

Find out more


Government researching innovative businesses
The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy is researching early-stage entrepreneurs’ finance journeys and would like your help.
If you have set up an innovative business in the last five years, please take a couple of minutes to fill out the Qualtrics link here and agree to potentially being contacted for a survey later this year, where your answers will influence and shape future government policy on access to finance.

See all of the RSC blue plaques or suggest your own on our website


Horizon Europe update
Although the scientific community in the UK and EU are strongly behind it, the UK’s association to Horizon Europe looks increasingly unlikely. To understand more about where we are now, what the RSC is doing, and what to expect over the coming months, read this update by Tanya Sheridan, Head of Policy and Evidence at the RSC.

Read here


Support colleagues and placement students with professional recognition

If you work with any placement students, you can encourage them to gain recognition for their year in industry by achieving Registered Scientist status. These awards demonstrate the skills and experience gained in a professional setting, so are appropriate for anyone working in any sector. In addition, by acting as a supporter for an application you’ll also be contributing to your own professional development. Email registers@rsc.org for more information.

Find out more about professional registration


Mentoring training 13 July, 10.00am – 12.00pm (UK time)

Mentors find the experience of helping another member rewarding as they help them to grow and 'address their own challenges, considering their relationships at work and thinking of the future'. If you are a Member or Fellow and are interested in becoming an RSC mentor, there is a mentoring training session scheduled 13 July. See our events page for further information.

Find out more


Are you interested in becoming a mentee?
Associate members (AMRSC), Members (MRSC) and Fellows (FRSC) have the chance to become a mentee, working alongside an experienced mentor in their field.
Benefits of being a mentee include:
• greater clarity around career goals and how to achieve them.
• gaining practical advice, encouragement and support.
• learning from the experiences of others.
• acquiring greater self-confidence and self-belief.
• pursuing personal and professional development and practical learning.
 
If you are interested in having a mentor, please email mentoring@rsc.org for further information.

Find out more


Career consultations
Our team of dedicated career and professional development advisors provide confidential professional development advice, CV reviews, redundancy support – anything related to careers. Remote career consultations with the team are available throughout the year to the following membership categories: Associate, Member and Fellow, as well as anyone with RSciTech or RSci status. Email the Careers team to find out more or visit www.rsc.org/careers

Find out more



Announcing three new RSC journals
We are excited to announce the upcoming launch of three new RSC journals: All three of these new journals are gold open access. Plus, we are paying for any article processing charges (APCs) until mid-2025, so you can initially read and publish for free.

Find out more

 
The Inclusion & Diversity survey

On Wednesday 29 June we sent you a 5-minute survey which will be anonymised and help give us a richer understanding of the diversity in our communities. Please do take the time to fill it out as it will help us make our activities, products, and services as inclusive and reflective of our community as they should be.

If you are involved in more than one activity with us, it is likely you may be asked for your diversity data more than once to protect your anonymity. We hope that you are able to contribute your data each time you are asked.


 
Local Section Day- 16 November 2022

On Wednesday 16 November 2022 (10:30 - 15:00 UK time) we would like to invite representatives of our Local Sections in the UK and Ireland to attend a Local Section Day in Burlington House, London. We will be contacting all relevant Secretaries in due course with details of how to register - up to two committee members from each Local Section may attend in person and any other committee members that wish to can join us online would be very welcome. The focus for the day will be to share experiences and to network following the restrictions of the last two years.

 
Recruiting new committee members

If you are looking to recruit new committee members can you please complete the updated call for committee form and send it to us at networks@rsc.org.  You might find this outline of the network election process useful too.

 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter has been tailored to you, but the full version can be found on the Networks Newsletter blog. Please read the online version and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Debbie, Luana and Barney
Posted by Barnaby Slater on Jun 30, 2022 9:50 AM BST
Dear Colleague,

Welcome to the May Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services and new initiatives.

This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Updated member networks Handbook
  • Communications from across the RSC
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
03 May
09 May
09 May
10 May
12 May
24 May
26 May
31 May
06 June
May deadline for Outreach Fund
Deadline for applications to the Research Enablement Grant

Deadline for the Interest Group and Subject Community Consultation
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 19 May to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 19 May
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 2 June to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 2 June

Deadline for May Research Development Grant applications
June deadline for Outreach Fund
 
Upcoming Events
 
05 May
11 May
19 May
13-14 June
15 June
Member e-alerts
Retirement in Sight (Ireland) Workshop from the CCF, 17:00 UKROI time
Member e-alerts
Analytical Research Forum 2022
Starting Out Right - Webinar with the CCF, 17:00 UK time
 
Updated member networks Handbook

The Networks Handbook outlines the support and guidance available to the committees and volunteers of all RSC member networks. The Networks Team update the Handbook regularly with information about resources and training available and processes for member network committees to follow, and add answers to common questions about how to do specific tasks or how to spend network funds in the FAQ section.

You can find the most up to date version at rsc.li/member-networks-handbook, please contact the Networks Team with any questions or feedback.


Find answers to your questions in the Networks Handbook


 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Outreach, Careers, Events, International, and Research & Innovation teams, as well as the Chemists’ Community Fund and RSC Publishing.

Interest Group and Subject Community Consultation
Final deadline for responses 9 May

At the end of March we emailed our Interest Group and Subject Community Consultation survey to Interest Group committee secretaries asking for every committee to complete the survey. Please could you or a member of your committee complete the survey by 9 May at the latest if you have not already. The Division Councils are meeting soon, and we would like to be able to share as many responses with them as we possibly can.

Your response will inform the Subject Community information that members of your interest group will see via the members’ area or via Subject Community communications. However, members will be able to change their subject preferences at any time and this will not impact their membership or communications from your Interest Group.

In the same survey, we also want to understand what you might want to achieve or would be of most benefit to your Interest Group Committee by engaging with the relevant Subject Community Council and how to best enable this. Building on many of the existing types of collaboration and links between our Interest Group Committees and our (what are currently named) Division Councils, we have proposed three initial categories of engagement.

We are very grateful for your input, which will help to inform the transition to Subject Communities. Please note that this transition will not alter financial arrangements for Interest Groups or the governance or strategic responsibilities of the Member Communities Board (including financial and legal aspects) for all member-led networks, including Interest Groups. This will also not change current links that Interest Groups have to the MCB, the Member Networks Committee or support and activities overseen by the RSC Networks Team such as the Interest Group Forum and the Networks Newsletter.


Share your committee's input by Monday 9 May



We are launching a dedicated Race & Ethnicity Unit

With the launch of our Missing Elements report in March, we committed to create a dedicated Race & Ethnicity Unit to lead systemic and structural change. Our Race and Ethnicity Unit represents our commitment in action to tackling racism and ethnic inequalities uncovered in the chemical sciences. The Unit will be established with an initial investment of £1.5M over the first three years to serve as a basis to evaluate outcomes and impact, and future needs in the community and for our future work.

We are now recruiting for a Race & Ethnicity Unit Lead to manage the team who will make recommendations to empower communities to drive racial and ethnic equality. Please share the job ad with your networks and keep an eye out for future vacancies.

Learn more about the Unit Lead role and apply online by 23 May



Celebrating our outstanding reviewers of 2021

In 2021, we were supported by a network of over 46,000 peer reviewers across 130 countries. These individuals helped us ensure that the research we publish is high quality and impactful. From this community, we are celebrating over 530 reviewers for their incredible contributions to the publishing process. They are being recognised in particular for the number, timeliness and quality of their reports.

Discover our full list of outstanding reviewers of 2021 on our website



Understanding implicit bias in decision making

Every day, our minds make snap decisions about others without us realising it. If left unchallenged, one person’s implicit bias can have a lasting impact on another’s career path. We’ve created this short video to guide decision-makers and committee members on actions we can all take to mitigate the effects of implicit bias.

Watch our video and learn how you can mitigate the effects of implicit bias



Mentoring Training
11 May, 11.00am–1.00pm (UK time)

Mentors find the experience of helping another member rewarding as they help them to grow and 'address their own challenges, considering their relationships at work and thinking of the future'. If you are a Member or Fellow and are interested in becoming an RSC mentor, there is a mentoring training session scheduled 11 May.

Learn more and register online



Outreach Fund grants of up to £10,000 available

Our Outreach Fund is currently open for grants of up to £10,000 to support chemistry-based outreach activities.

This year we are again running a rolling monthly application system Tuesday 3 May and Monday 6 June being the next deadlines. We are especially interested to receive applications that support sustainability as well as those that target under-represented audiences.

Please consider whether you could include details of the Outreach Fund in any communications you send to the members of your groups or if you know of any friends or colleagues that would be interested to hear about the Fund maybe from work or other community groups you are a part of do pass this on.

Head to the Outreach Fund page for further information or contact Geri Kitley via outreach@rsc.org if you have any questions or want to discuss an application or project.


Find out more on the Outreach Fund webpage


 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter is sent out as a tailored email communication to all member network volunteers. Please read the full version here and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you.

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona and Debbie

 
Posted by Aurora Walshe on May 4, 2022 9:00 AM BST
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