All postgraduate researchers registered for a PhD must complete the Researcher Development Assessment (RDA) before their First Year Probation Review. We recommend completing your RDA as early as possible so you can identify and plan training that best supports your research and future career.
The RDA is an online self-assessment tool that helps you reflect on your existing skills, identify areas for development, and create a personalised training plan.
How to complete your RDA
- Attend “Milestone 1: Kickstart your PhD” to learn about the RDA and it’s importance. All new PhD Researchers will be emailed inviting them to attend, you can also check our events page for upcoming dates.
- Login to Target Connect and enrol on the Researcher Development Pathway
- Once loaded, scroll down and complete all of the domains, scoring 1-5 for each answer.
- Once all domains are completed download and complete the ‘Personal Development Plan’. Save it to your PC and then re-upload as an attachment and submit.
- The GRC will let the Kent Vision team know when you have completed your RDA and this will be updated on your record (please note this is a manual process that is done in intervals and will not be updated straight away).
- Once completed, we advise meeting with your supervisor to discuss your completed RDA and agree your development priorities.
Need help? Email us for guidance..