Updated PGR FAQ: Funded extensions, access to study/research facilities
08 Jul 2020
Frequently asked questions are updated regularly
This advice is correct at the time of publication of this news article.
If you have health concerns then you should refer to the NHS website as recommended by Public Health England. For other queries regarding the current situation, email coronavirus-info@manchester.ac.uk.
We have updated the following questions in the coronavirus FAQ for postgraduate researchers:
Can I apply for a funded extension to my research?
Salaried Research Fellowship Holders: If you are funded through a doctoral fellowship and your salary is processed by the University, then you should refer to the terms and conditions of your funder. If your funder cannot support the costs of an extension, the University will cover the cost of approved extensions of up to 6 months for tuition fees and a stipend at UKRI rate. Please contact your local PGR support team for advice.
PGRs with programme/funding end dates beyond 31 March 2021: We would like to reassure PGRs at an earlier stage of their research that we have not forgotten about you. You should continue to keep a log of any lost time - you will be able to submit a request for an extension within three months of your programme end date in order for you to better assess the length of extension required. Part time PGRs should submit your request within 6 months of your funding end date (programme end date). Whilst the university will be extremely sympathetic in granting extra time to those who require it, the extent to which any approved extensions can be funded will be dependent on the terms and conditions of your funder. UKRI has committed to reviewing their position over the new next few months and the University will review its own policy along similar timelines. This approach is being taken by many universities.
Will I have access to my study and research areas?
Although most of the campus currently remains closed, the University is progressing with a phased re-opening of some research/study facilities on campus. We are working in line with government guidance and placing health, safety and wellbeing at the forefront of all activity. University guidance remains that PGRs should continue to work/study remotely wherever possible. We recommend that you speak to your supervisor or local PGR support team for more detailed information about returning to campus. You can also refer to the re-opening website for the latest updates.