Telecommunications researcher : Training

Most telecommunications researchers study for, or already have, a relevant Masters degree or PhD. However, as a research-based degree such as a Masters or PhD is regarded as training for research work, employers may employ graduates without postgraduate qualifications and then fund their PhD research.

Traditionally, a PhD takes three years’ full time study, although part-time study and four-year PhDs are becoming more common. One-to-one guidance and support is available throughout the PhD programme from a supervisor who would usually be an experienced researcher in the field of study. Transferable skills training is now also a recognised part of a PhD programme and research students should receive formal training.

It is vital for telecommunications researchers to keep up to date with advances in their field and they need to maintain a high level of continuing professional development (CPD). They therefore regularly attend national and international conferences and symposiums and are often called upon to present at such events.

Where teaching and lecturing are part of the role, researchers within academia may receive training for these responsibilities. Indeed, such training is usually required and researchers sometimes study for a postgraduate qualification in teaching in higher education.

For more senior research posts in academic settings such as universities, postdoctoral training is becoming more common.