Published in the Research School of Physics Event Horizon
Vol45 Issue17 27 April–1 May 2020

Research

Aim

We can use this time to be productive - work on manuscript drafts, thesis chapters, read things in-depth or learn something new.  Please stay in touch with your colleagues and your supervisor, and most importantly be positive and plan for the future.

Contacts

Updates

Return to campus: Phase 1

The ANU and College of Science executives have been engaged in an active discussion about putting in place, as soon as is practicable, a phased return to campus for those staff and students who are unable to carry out research from home. Last week, the DVC(RI) has released guidelines for the first phase of reintroduction to campus. The first phase is conservative and prioritises:

Several of RSPhys research areas have been approved at the College level for Phase 1 return to campus with minimal personnel numbers. The second phase is likely to include students and E/MCRs at critical stages in their studies/employment, however we do not know when this phase will commence.

Recruitment pause

The recruitment pause, currently in place until the 27th of June, includes new casual and fixed term appointments. However, some recruitment can still proceed subject to exemption. This is the current advice from HR regarding the process:

The hiring manager should make an application for an exemption with the endorsement of their School Director to the College Dean/College GM. The College Dean and College GM will assess the need for the role and forward the request to the Director – Human Resources. The request should be made in email, be no more than one paragraph in length and cover the below points:

  1. How does the absence of this position affect the business operation of the area? 
  2. Have you explored other School resources? (other team members, teams etc)  
  3. How you will effectively on-board and supervise the staff member during this time of remote working.  

COVID-19 HDR Extension Scholarships

The ANU Office of Dean (HDR) has last week announced the COVID-19 Extension Scholarship opportunity for HDR candidates who are in their final scholarship extension period (3.5-4yrs for PhD, or 1.5-2yrs for MPhil). It will provide candidates with a full stipend up to the current RTP rate (pro-rata), for up to 6 months duration, in the first instance. The scholarship will be open for applications until 31 December 2021. For more information, see the HDR section of this EH and visit:

https://www.anu.edu.au/covid-19-advice/researching-remotely/hdr-candidates

Prizes and Awards

Australian Academy of Science Honorific Awards were established to recognise outstanding contributions to the advancement of science at the early, mid and career level. Career awards recognise life-long achievement. Nominations for a number of awards are currently open, with the closing date 1 May 2020. Please consider nominating your colleagues:

https://www.science.org.au/supporting-science/awards-and-opportunities

School Seminar Series

We are restarting the RSPhys School Seminar Series via Zoom. The first seminar for 2020 will be delivered by Dr. Hua Xia from the Centre for Plasma and Fluids, on Wednesday 13th of May, at 11 am. A separate announcement will follow shortly.

Research - Working Party Terms of Reference - coming soon

Digest of past updates

Research Updates @ 20 April