Elsevier Researcher Academy
Researcher Academy is an entirely free e-learning platform designed to unlock the potential of early and mid-career researchers.
Learn how to obtain research funding. Improve your writing skills and publish a research paper in a journal with a high impact factor. Learn how to respond to reviewer comments. Discover how communicating your work can boost the impact of your research and help you garner citations. Find out about planning your career strategically, surviving a job search in both industry and academia, and coping with the busy life of a researcher. At Researcher Academy, you’ll get the latest research news, the most up-to-date advice and hands-on guidance on a number of topics. You’re already an expert in your field of study. We’ll teach you the rest. www.researcheracademy.com
To access Elsevier Researcher Academy courses for free, follow the instructions. For each completed module and topic you’ll receive a personalised certificate signed by the Managing Directors of Elsevier’s journal and book divisions.
Modules are claimable for CaRST credit; please refer to the tables below for the number of credits that can be claimed for each.
Domain A: Knowledge and Intellectual Abilities
Courses categorised in this domain relate to the knowledge and intellectual abilities needed to be able to carry out excellent research.
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Writing skills
No matter how novel your research, or how much time you’ve invested in your work, you still need to pay attention to some basic writing rules if you want to get published. These writing skills modules contain some helpful advice so you can ensure poor use of language or sloppy article structure doesn’t let you down.
What you will learn:
- Information on common writing mistakes
- Advice on how to avoid those errors
- A guide to correct manuscript language
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link How to prepare a proposal for a review article 40 A 0.5 Access module Writing a persuasive cover letter for your manuscript 30 A 0.5 Access module How to turn your thesis into an article 60 A 1 Access module Using proper manuscript language 40 A 0.5 Access module 10 tips for writing a truly terrible article 50 A 1 Access module -
Technical writing skills
Depending on your field of study, there are different types of articles and formats you’ll need to master. The LaTeX typesetting system, for example, has proven to be a powerful tool for researchers in fields where tables, figures, and formulae are regular manuscript features. Like any technology, there are tips and tricks that can make it easier to use. In this beginners’ guide, we walk you through them.
What you will learn:
- Practical advice to get you started
- Guidance on using the LaTex system
- Some golden rules and common mistakes
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link How to design effective figures for review articles 60 A 1 Access module How to write for an interdisciplinary audience 60 A 1 Access module An editor's guide to writing a review article 60 A 1 Access module How to write case reports 60 A 1 Access module Systematic reviews 101 60 A 1 Access module Make the most of your research: publish data and methods 30 A 0.5 Access module Beginners' guide to writing a manuscript in LaTeX 40 A 0.5 Access module
Domain B: Personal Effectiveness
Courses categorised in this domain relate to the personal qualities, career and self-management skills required to take ownership for and engage in professional development.
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Self-management
Scientific research is a stressful business. Pressure to deliver results, shortage of funds and the competitive nature of the field take their toll on a researcher’s peace of mind which in turn affects their performance and results. In these modules, you will learn to train your mind towards better stress management and how to efficiently deal with stress.
What you will find:
- Managing stress using mindfulness techniques
- Guidance on work-life balance
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link Mindfulness for researchers- an approach to stress relief and 'research-life' balance 60 B 1 Module access What is burnout and how to address it 60 B 1 Module access The following videos are not eligible for credit and are available as a resource only.
- 5 tips for researchers to support a healthy research career (8 minutes)
- A healthy work life balance (5 minutes)
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Career and job search strategies
A career in research can take many twists and turns. Whether you decide to stay in academia or move onto industry, Researcher Academy’s career resources will help you plan accordingly. Browse the different career sections for sound practical advice to tackle your future.
What you will find:
- Tips on profiling your skills
- Advice on writing a CV for a company
- Information about industry interviews
- What industry employers think of PhDs
- Insight into a career in industry
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link How to make the most of your PhD capabilities and find fulfilling jobs 60 B 1 Access module Job search strategies for early career researchers 60 B 1 Access module Transitioning from academia to industry 60 B 1 Access module Top 5 career questions for researchers 60 B 1 Access module The following videos are not eligible for credit and are available as a resource only.
- The right choice of study (3 minutes)
- Writing an effective CV (4 minutes)
- Preparing for an industry interview (3 minutes)
- How to network at a conference (9 minutes)
- Choosing a career in academia or industry (2 minutes)
- Thinking outside the box (1 minute)
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Ensuring visibility
With so much new research published each year, it's never been more important to actively promote your paper. In this series of modules, we share some useful tips to help you increase the visibility of your work.
What you will learn:
- How to prepare for promotion at the writing stage
- Actions you can take post-publication
- Tips for tracking and measuring their success
Modules Duration Domain Credit Link How to promote yourself and your research as an early career researcher 60 B 1 Access module Seven strategies for scientists to communicate their research and create a brand 60 B 1 Access module Conference skills for researchers 30 B 0.5 Access module How to promote your research for maximum impact 40 B 0.5 Access module The following video is not eligible for credit and is available as a resource only.
- Social media for researchers (12 minutes)
Domain C: Research Governance and Organisation
Courses categorised in this domain relate to the knowledge of the standards, requirements and professional conduct that are needed for the effective management of research.
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Publishing ethics
Breaking the publishing ethics rules can badly damage your reputation as a researcher, and even spell the end of your career. In this module series, we provide you with the support and advice you need to ensure your manuscript and actions are ethically sound.
What you will learn:
- An explanation of publishing ethics
- Insight into the rules you should observe
- Information about content ownership and permissions
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link Plagiarism: decision making and dealing with grey-zones across academic fields 60 C 1 Access module Detecting image manipulation, routines, tools and limitations 110 C 2 Access module Plagiarism 40 C 0.5 Access module The following video is not eligible for credit and is available as a resource only.
- Demystifying permission (14 minutes)
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Open science
Open science is the new buzzword but what does it actually mean? And what about open access? Where does that fit into the story? In these modules, we cover the topics in detail. We look at the many definitions of open science and how you can use it in your own research and publishing career. We also explore open access and whether there are any specific points to consider when choosing to go down that publishing path.
What you will learn:
- What is open science
- New insight into how you can benefit from it
- Points to consider when publishing open access
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link How to leverage open hardware to improve your research 60 C 1 Access module Publishing open access 60 C 1 Access module
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Research data management
Common condition of funding that the data associated with your work should be made available, accessible, discoverable, and usable. Our series of data management modules contain all the information you need to help you comply with these requirements.
What you will learn:
- Why sharing data is so important
- An introduction to data management plans
- Information about the sharing solutions on offer
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link How to conduct evidence-based research 60 C 1 Access module How to manage and publish your research data 60 C 1 Access module How researchers store, share and use data 36 C 0.5 Access module Creating a good research data management plan 40 C 0.5 Access module How researchers benefit from citing data 39 C 0.5 Access module
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Funding
Applying for a research grant can be a long and painful process and there are no guarantees it will end in success. The useful tips shared in our funding modules could prove just the boost you need to secure financial support. You will learn how (and why) you should critically assess your research idea. We then walk you through points to consider when locating the right funding opportunity to match it. You will hear about some of the common mistakes researchers make when filling in their applications and how your network can help. And, we explain the power of metrics (particularly altmetrics) in helping funders picture your future potential.
What you will learn:
- Advice from experts on funding
- Guidance on writing a great application
- An introduction to metrics
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link How to secure funding- ECR edition 60 C 1 Access module Funding hacks for researchers 60 C 1 Access module Successful research grant applications- getting it right 40 C 0.5 Access module Discover how metrics can boost funding and networking opportunities 38 C 0.5 Access module
Domain D: Engagement Influence and Impact
Courses categorised in this domain relate to the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to engage with, influence and impact on the academic, social, cultural, economic and broader context.
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Research collaborations
Research collaborations are becoming increasingly common. Several research grants and career advancement opportunities are directly linked to research collaboration. Collaborations in research come in many forms, including co-authorship, research network building, joint research, and research partnerships. Early career researchers, in particular, stand to gain a lot from collaborations, either by getting involved in existing research groups, or by looking for collaborators whose skills are complementary to theirs. In these modules, you will learn how (and why) to collaborate with industry, how international collaborations work, and how to create a sustain research collaborations over time.
What you will learn:
- Advice on how to collaborate with industry
- Guidance on making research collaborations work
- An introduction to the importance of collaborations
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link How to produce highly successful research: useful tips for researchers 60 D 1 Access module The key to successful academic collaborations 60 D 1 Access module Making academia-industry collaborations work 60 D 1 Access module -
Inclusion and diversity for researchers
According to recent data, diversity in academia leads to more impactful scientific research. Therefore, creating an environment where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed is critical to the advancement of science. But how does one go about this? In this section of Researcher Academy, various experts will share to introduce the basic concepts of I&D, as well as a “how-to” manual on addressing these issues specifically in academia.
What you will learn:
- What is Inclusion and diversity
- How to address these issues in academia
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link Reflections on making an inclusive research environment 60 D 1 Access module How your research can make an impact on society 40 D 0.5 Access module How to create impact with patient and public involvement 60 D 1 Access module How to integrate sex, gender, and intersectional analysis into research 60 D 1 Access module
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Fundamentals of manuscript preparation
As you embark on your publishing career, it can feel like there’s an endless array of procedures, protocols and best practice to absorb. In this series of modules, we walk you through some of the key points you should pay attention to during that all-important manuscript preparation stage.
What you will learn:
- An introduction to the publishing process
- Insights into how to build an article
- Top tips for writing a great abstract
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link Structuring your article correctly 40 D 0.5 Access module Guide to reference managers: how to effectively manage your manuscript 45 D 0.5 Access module How to prepare your manuscript 40 D 0.5 Access module How to write an abstract and improve your article 40 D 0.5 Access module -
Book writing
Becoming a book author or editor can be a useful career move and help position you as an expert in your field. In this series of book writing modules, we explore the various ways you can become involved in book publishing and what you should consider before taking that step.
What you will learn:
- Why you should publish a book
- Advice on writing a compelling proposal
- Ideas for promoting your work
All three modules must be completed to be claimed for CaRST credit and should be self-recorded as one activity: “Book writing”.
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link Why write a book 12 D 0.5 Access module How to get your book published 12 Access module Discoverability top tips to get your book out there 14 Access module -
Finding the right journal
If you want to get your paper published, one of the key challenges you face is finding the right journal for your research. From the aims and scope, to the journal’s values and ethical practice, there are many points to take into account. You will want to consider the impact of the journal and there are various metrics available to help you do that. In this series of modules, we explore all these important decision factors in detail. We hear from experts who have practical tips to help you make the right choice. And we share a useful checklist you can use when evaluating the many journals available.
What you will learn:
- Tips for assessing a journal’s aims and scope
- Advice on judging a journal’s ethics
- A useful guide to journal and article metrics
Module Duration (min) Domain Credit Link A guide to journal citation metrics 60 D 1 Access module How to identify the right journal to publish in 52 D 1 Access module -
Going through peer review
When you’ve already invested so much time in your manuscript, it’s not always easy to hear that a reviewer thinks it needs more work. In these modules, we provide some useful advice on how to deal with those reviewer comments and keep your submission moving smoothly through the publishing process. You will learn the initial steps you should take, and the correct tone and language to use in your response letter. We also help you see your manuscript through the eyes of an editor and reviewer, so you can spot any shortfalls or mistakes before you submit.
What you will learn:
- Practical advice on how to respond to reviewers
- An explanation of what reviewers are looking for
- Tips on looking at their submission with a critical eye
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link How to respond to reviewers' comments 60 D 1 Access module How do editors look at your paper 55 D 1 Access module -
Certified Peer Reviewer Course
The Elsevier Researcher Academy is pleased to announce a new certified course in peer reviewing. By taking the Certified* Peer Reviewer course, you will receive a thorough grounding in the principles and practice of refereeing. Co-created, developed and in part delivered by senior academic editors on leading journals, the course has been specifically designed to give those who have not yet reviewed – or who feel they would like additional training in this area – the skills and confidence to accept a request to review.
Delivered via directed self-learning in the form of webinars, podcasts and questionnaires, the course can be tackled in your own time. Several core modules must be completed to gain certification, but you can “pick and choose” additional elements to suit your individual learning needs and interests. You can also check out the speakers & advisory board here and you can familiarize yourself with the syllabus here. Becoming a certified peer reviewer will allow you to publicly demonstrate your expertise as a referee and will be a clear signal to journal editors that you would be a valuable addition to their reviewer pool. In addition, it is possible that your institution might recognize your certification as evidence of continuing professional education.
What you will learn:
- Understanding of the peer review process
- Advice on writing a helpful peer review report
- Advice on handling ethical issues concerning peer review
Once you completed the course, please self-record this whole course for 4 credits in Domain D.
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link Introduction to the Certified Peer Reviewer Course
15 D Access module What to expect from the Certified Peer Reviewer Course?
3 D Access module 1.1 What is peer review? Why peer review?
12 D Access module 1.2 Models of peer review
12 D Access module 1.3 The typical peer review process
20 D Access module 1.4 How to get involved
6 D Access module 2.0 I just got a review invite, what’s next?
6 D Access module 3.1 How to write a helpful peer review report
25 D Access module 3.2 The comments to editors and decision recommendations
17 D Access module 3.3 How to peer review a review article
60 D Access module 4.0 What next?
10 D Access module Certified Peer Reviewer Course Assessment
60 D Access module
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Innovation for researchers
These modules are designed specifically for researchers, who want to make an impact with their research and are looking for ways to transfer their research results into marketable applications.
What you will learn:
- Fundamental elements of business models
- Ways to transfer their research results into marketable applications.
- The Design Thinking process and its principles in the innovation process.
Modules Duration (min) Domain Credit Link Business development for researchers 60 D 1 Access module Learn startup principles 60 D 1 Access module Design thinking: turn research into innovation 60 D 1 Access module -
Social impact
Your paper may be valued by your peers, but increasingly, that’s only one piece of the puzzle. These days, funders often ask you to show your work has relevance beyond the academic arena too. But what form should that societal impact take and how can you demonstrate it? In this series of modules, we explore some definitions and measurements. We look at how you can bring a wider audience in contact with your work and some of the unexpected outcomes. We also explore the topic of lay summaries and how they can introduce your research to a whole new group of readers.
What you will learn: