Events in February

Sun 1st February

A large blue floored outdoor sports court, with Aston Webb and Old Joe in the background Saturday afternoon fixtures
2:30pm - 11:30pm
On campus
Cheer on your fellow students as we take on other universities in the BUCS leagues and tournaments! Check out this week's fixtures you can watch on campus.

Mon 2nd February

LGBTQ+ Books Display and Badges
2nd February 4am - 28th February 4am
Main Library
Come along to the Main Library Atrium any time this month to learn about LGBTQ+ contributions to the field of Science and Innovation. Find your next read to borrow, learn about LGBTQ+ scientific history, and take a badge and a sticker!
An academic presenting in a lecture theatre Researcher visibility essentials: ORCID and Pure
2pm - 3pm
Online
Learn how to create an ORCID profile for yourself that is recognised in academia and grows in value as your career progresses. Link it to your University of Birmingham Research Portal webpage to increase your discoverability.
A close up of a lap with hands resting, with a step tracker and rainbow bead bracelet on one wrist LGBTQ+ Wellbeing drop in
4:30pm - 8pm
Wellbeing Lodge, North Gate
Led by Birmingham LGBT and supported by Umbrella, these drop-in sessions offer free support for sexual health, wellbeing support, and signposting. Access testing, advice and support, and pick up some freebies, as well as discovering other services.
A student smiles whilst working on a laptop Writing clearly and concisely
6pm - 8pm
Fourth Floor Training Room, Main Library
Sharpen up your writing to communicate your research and ideas more effectively. This will be most useful for those who have already drafted some texts.

Tue 3rd February

Person walking through Winterbourne gardens Philosophy Workshop: Is it normal to be delusional?
4:30pm - 5:30pm
Winterbourne House & Gardens
Are people who have bizarre delusional beliefs especially irrational, or is it in some way normal? Explore the subject with Dr Ema Sullivan-Bissett at Winterbourne - free entry with student ID, but booking for this workshop is essential.
A student at a laptop Three Minute Thesis 2026: Online Q&A and Drop-in
6pm - 8pm
Online
Are you a doctoral researcher thinking about taking part in the 2026 Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition? Join our informal online drop-in to learn more, get tips, and ask your questions.

Wed 4th February

Two students walk past the lake at the Vale, deep in conversation Sexual health advice with Umbrella
1pm - 3pm
Reception, Guild of Students
We’re bringing vital sexual health services directly to your doorstep! Visit our Umbrella Stall at the Guild for FREE, confidential support, including sexual health advice, free contraception and information, and STI testing kits.
Two people having a conversation Working effectively with your supervisor
2pm - 4pm
Main Library Fourth Floor Training Room
Understand what to expect from the supervisor-PGR relationship, how to get the most from your supervisory team, and the support available to complement your supervision.
A student walks through a fair in the Great Hall Low traffic time - Spring Careers Fair
2:30pm - 3pm
Great Hall, Aston Webb building
Want to explore the Spring Careers Fair with less of the busyness? Book this slot before the Spring Careers Fair, for students who find busy environments challenging and would benefit from a less busy setting to interact with employers.
A busy crowd in the Great Hall Spring Careers Fair 2026
2:30pm - 7pm
Great Hall, Aston Webb building
Whether you're already mapping out your career path or exploring your options, join us at the Spring Careers Fair to discover a variety of job sectors, connect with potential employers and learn about their work experience and graduate opportunities.
A rail of tshirts hanging in rainbow order Transgender Clothing Swap
3pm - 9pm
Studio 2, ERI building
Find some new outfits with a clothing swap event for transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, and questioning students and staff - a low-cost, sustainable way for members of the trans community to find clothing that aligns with your gender expression.
Golden Chalice on Table Beside a Priest in Green Chasuble Holy Communion Service
4:30pm - 5pm
Multifaith Chaplaincy, St. Francis Hall
Join students and staff to take time out to hear scripture, contemplate the holy, and feed your spiritual life led by a Methodist or Anglican clergy.
Two people walk down stairs in conversation Navigating a career change
5pm - 6:30pm
Online
As a postgraduate, you may already have worked for a while in a particular sector and want to transition to another sector; you might be moving from academia into industry, or vice versa. This workshop will help you plan your next steps.
A student playing a double bass Student jazz sessions
5:30pm - 6pm
Mezzanine, Bramall Music building
Join us for informal performances from a selection of our talented student jazz musicians.
An ASC advisor delivering a workshop PGT Essentials: Getting started with your research strategy
6pm - 7:30pm
Online
Where do you begin when faced with a broad research topic? How do you turn an idea into a precise, effective search for related literature? Join the Academic Skills Centre for this online workshop followed by a Q&A where you can ask questions.

Thu 5th February

Students sit around circular tables chatting Starting to write for PGRs
2pm - 4pm
Main Library Fourth Floor Training Room
An introduction to the writing process, your knowledge of yourself as a writer, and strategies for planning and creating text, suitable for those at the beginning of their development as postgraduate research level academic writers.
An ASC advisor delivering a workshop Supporting your Dissertation: Writing your literature review
4pm - 5pm
Online
The literature review is an important component of a dissertation. This workshop, hosted by the ASC, will explore what an effective literature review involves, focusing on how to structure a review, and how to write critically about the literature.

Fri 6th February

People gathered in a prayer room listening to a speaker at the front. Jummah Prayers
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Worship Room, Multifaith Chaplaincy - St Francis Hall
Every Friday, the Multifaith Chaplaincy hosts two Jummah prayers. The speakers vary from week to week, and there are prayer facilities available for both brothers and sisters, Alhamdulilah. These prayers are organised by the Islamic Society.
People gathered in a prayer room listening to a speaker at the front. Jummah Prayers
5:15pm - 6:15pm
Worship Room, Multifaith Chaplaincy - St Francis Hall
Every Friday, the Multifaith Chaplaincy hosts two Jummah prayers. The speakers vary from week to week, and there are prayer facilities available for both brothers and sisters, Alhamdulilah. These prayers are organised by the Islamic Society.

Mon 9th February

Vitae's Researcher Development Framework Development Needs Analysis
6pm - 7:30pm
Online
The Development Needs Analysis (GRS1) form is a requirement of research programmes. This highly practical workshop supports the process, including introducing you to Vitae’s Researcher Development Framework.

Tue 10th February

Two people look at a computer screen together Applying for jobs when you're changing career
5pm - 6:30pm
Online
In this interactive workshop for postgraduates, we will provide suggestions and examples of how you can articulate relevant skills when you’re moving from one career to another, even if you don’t consider your previous experience to be relevant.
An ASC advisor delivering a workshop Building on your Skills: Using EndNote to store references
5pm - 6pm
Online
New to reference management software or EndNote 21? Come along to this session, hosted by the ASC, which will cover the basics: loading EndNote 21, importing references, creating groups, and connecting your EndNote 21 library with MS Word.

Wed 11th February

Three students sit chatting in front of a poster display board Designing and presenting your poster at conferences
1pm - 3pm
Main Library Fourth Floor Training Room
Learn how to maximise the opportunity to communicate your research in a highly visual way using a poster. Understand the nature of a poster session, how to create visual impact, and how to use PowerPoint in this context.
A staff member sits working at a laptop in a café space Literature searching: hints and tips for researchers
2pm - 4pm
Online
This practical introduction to effective literature searching provides guidance on search strategy planning, the use of keywords and subject headings, and tips on managing search results.
A staff member speaks to a student at a stall Teaching Careers Fair
4pm - 7pm
Foyer, Main Library
Thinking about teaching? Join us to explore training options, gain insights into the profession, and discover work experience opportunities.
Golden Chalice on Table Beside a Priest in Green Chasuble Holy Communion Service
4:30pm - 5pm
Multifaith Chaplaincy, St. Francis Hall
Join students and staff to take time out to hear scripture, contemplate the holy, and feed your spiritual life led by a Methodist or Anglican clergy.
Three people look at a computer screen together Structuring your thesis
5pm - 6:30pm
Online
Already have some draft texts but unsure how these might fit together in a logical thesis structure? This highly interactive workshop will cover common thesis structures and strategies for creating your own.
An ASC advisor delivering a workshop Supporting your dissertation: Writing Writing skills (secondary research)
5pm - 6pm
Online
This workshop, hosted by the ASC, will focus on some key writing skills for your dissertations. Including: Signposting to structure your argument. Writing critically. What to include in your introduction and conclusion. Approaches to editing.
Old Joe on a blue sky day with a bird flying nearby The Light of Day: Rediscovering a Gay Liberation’s Hero
5pm - 6pm
Teaching and Learning Building
Come along for a thought-provoking conversation with Christopher Stephens, author of The Light of Day: the moving true story of the first man to come out as gay.
Three students with small children sit in the Green Heart Parents' and carers' group
6pm - 7:30pm
Online
Are you a student who's also a parent or carer? Balancing studies and caring can feel tough, but you're not alone. Find a network who understand what it's like with our termly online therapeutic group.
Red patterned horse design China Institute: Lunar New Year Concert
10:30pm - midnight
Elgar Concert Hall, Bramall Music Building
The China Institute is delighted to invite you to our 2026 New Year Concert! Join internationally renowned Chinese pianist Di Xiao and The Silk & Bamboo Trio for a concert to welcome the year of the Horse! Booking essential, get your ticket now.

Thu 12th February

A person sits at a table Preparing for your viva
2pm - 3pm
Main Library Fourth Floor Training Room
The viva is an important part of the assessment for your programme. Attend this workshop in the months approaching your viva to do some practical activities to help you prepare.
Two students chat on campus How to: Get started with work experience through volunteering and part-time work
4pm - 5pm
Room G11, Alan Walters building
Explore types of informal work experience opportunities how getting involved with your university and local communities can develop your work experience portfolio. This session is particularly useful for those with limited or no prior experience.
Two students look at a phone showing a scientific diagram Introduction to AI tools for researchers
6pm - 7pm
Online
Develop an understanding of the opportunities and risks of using AI tools in the research process, explore how AI Tools might be used to augment research processes to create efficiencies, and critically evaluate potential ethical risks.

Fri 13th February

Poster for the Drag Disco. LGBTQ+ Association / Guild of Students Drag Disco
2am - 7am
University of Birmingham
Come along to our Drag Disco featuring, Ruby Boy, crowd games and high-energy performances that you won’t want to miss! This is an 18+ only event.
The Main Library Fourth Floor Training Room Shut Up and Work for early career researchers
1:30pm - 8:30pm
Main Library Fourth Floor Training Room
Work on your own writing, planning or literature discovery in a quiet but supportive environment. There will be time to set targets at the beginning of the day and there will be regular planned breaks to enable you to network or take a walk.
People gathered in a prayer room listening to a speaker at the front. Jummah Prayers
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Worship Room, Multifaith Chaplaincy - St Francis Hall
Every Friday, the Multifaith Chaplaincy hosts two Jummah prayers. The speakers vary from week to week, and there are prayer facilities available for both brothers and sisters, Alhamdulilah. These prayers are organised by the Islamic Society.
People gathered in a prayer room listening to a speaker at the front. Jummah Prayers
5:15pm - 6:15pm
Worship Room, Multifaith Chaplaincy - St Francis Hall
Every Friday, the Multifaith Chaplaincy hosts two Jummah prayers. The speakers vary from week to week, and there are prayer facilities available for both brothers and sisters, Alhamdulilah. These prayers are organised by the Islamic Society.

Mon 16th February

Three Minute Thesis 2026: Presentation Workshop
4pm - 6pm
Arts Main Lecture Theatre
Getting ready for the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition? Join our applicant workshop to learn how to craft a clear, compelling presentation that makes an impact.

Tue 17th February

The exterior of The Exchange building Explore family tours at The Exchange
3pm - 4pm
The Exchange, Centenary Square
A new bank clerk uncovers bank secrets and explores mysterious items from the past in a family-friendly adventure for ages 4-11 (and their grown-ups). Booking essential - 1 free ticket per child, to be accompanied by an adult.
The exterior of The Exchange building Explore family tours at The Exchange
5pm - 6pm
The Exchange, Centenary Square
A new bank clerk uncovers bank secrets and explores mysterious items from the past in a family-friendly adventure for ages 4-11 (and their grown-ups). Booking essential - 1 free ticket per child, to be accompanied by an adult.
An ASC advisor delivering a workshop Supporting your dissertation: Writing Writing skills (primary research)
5pm - 6pm
Online
This workshop, hosted by the ASC, will focus on some key writing skills for your dissertations. Including: Signposting to structure your argument. Writing critically. What to include in your introduction and conclusion. Approaches to editing.
A student on their phone in a social space Planning for success
6pm - 7:30pm
Online
Designed primarily for postgraduate researchers (PGRs) in the very early stages of their research programme (approximately during the first three months), this workshop covers research project management techniques.

Wed 18th February

Golden Chalice on Table Beside a Priest in Green Chasuble Holy Communion Service
4:30pm - 5pm
Multifaith Chaplaincy, St. Francis Hall
Join students and staff to take time out to hear scripture, contemplate the holy, and feed your spiritual life led by a Methodist or Anglican clergy.
An ASC advisor delivering a workshop PGT Essentials: Critical Thinking
5:30pm - 7pm
Online
Join the Academic Skills Centre for for an online workshop on critical thinking, including strategies for success and expert advice, followed by a Q&A where you can ask any questions related to critical thinking and writing.
Three students sit at a table in conversation Apply for UK jobs - CVs, cover letters, and forms
6pm - 7pm
Online
Want to make strong job applications in the UK? We'll show you how to write a clear CV, a strong cover letter, and complete online forms. We’ll focus on what UK employers expect and common mistakes. Suitable for international students.
Two students in a lecture theatre Global Connections Alumni Panel: establishing a career in the UK
6pm - 7:30pm
Lecture Theatre 2, Teaching and Learning Building
Are you an international student or postgraduate researcher considering a career in the UK? Be inspired by our interactive panel with UoB international alumni now working in the UK.
A student sits at a table with a laptop, chatting to a staff member Reviewing the literature
6pm - 8pm
Fourth Floor Training Room, Main Library
Understand the nature of a quality literature review and how to effectively synthesise the literature you have read in your thesis.

Thu 19th February

A student sat on a sofa working on a laptop, seen from above Data management plans for PGRs
2pm - 3pm
Online
All postgraduate researchers are required to have a Data Management Plan in place before completing their first annual review (GRS3). This workshop will help you to achieve this by covering the basics of research data management.
Two people look at a vase illuminated by a ring light Unearthing the past: using archives and special collections
2pm - 4pm
Cadbury Research Library, Lower Ground Floor, Muirhead Tower
Get an introduction to archives and a practical guide to special collections departments. Explore how archives and special collections can be best used for your research. Go behind the scenes at the Cadbury Research Library.
Small children watch a saxophonist Barber Baby: Latona and the Frogs
3pm - 4:30pm
The Dome, Bramall Music Building
Experience the magic of live music inspired by works from the Barber collection. Relax, listen, or dance -adventure awaits! Ideal for 0-4yo and their grown ups, free and drop-in. Our Half Term special is a bit longer, with older siblings welcome too!
An ASC advisor delivering a workshop Building on your Skills: Improve your academic writing
4pm - 5pm
Online
Looking to develop your academic writing style further? This workshop, hosted by the ASC, will help you to: Develop your academic voice. Integrate critical discussion. Understand how to make your writing clear and concise.
Students in a teaching room How to: Find work experience (internships & placements)
4pm - 5pm
Room 112, Chemical Engineering building
Get information on how you can search and find work experience, internships, placements and graduate roles during and after your studies. Meet the Work Experience team, complete a skills audit, and understand different sectors.
A person looks at a painting in the Barber Creative & Cultural Careers Unlocked
6pm - 8:30pm
Room 715, Muirhead Tower
Explore roles in the Creative & Cultural sectors that panellists work in, what they did after graduation, first jobs and tips for getting your foot in the door. Get advice and pick up some tips and strategies to understand careers possibilities.

Fri 20th February

A student in conversation with someone out of view Introduction to presentation skills
2pm - 4pm
Main Library Fourth Floor Training Room
Are you a postgraduate researcher who wants to build your confidence in delivering presentations? This workshop covers the basics of a good presentation, including structure and visual aids. Get peer feedback on an informal presentation of your own.
People gathered in a prayer room listening to a speaker at the front. Jummah Prayers
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Worship Room, Multifaith Chaplaincy - St Francis Hall
Every Friday, the Multifaith Chaplaincy hosts two Jummah prayers. The speakers vary from week to week, and there are prayer facilities available for both brothers and sisters, Alhamdulilah. These prayers are organised by the Islamic Society.
People gathered in a prayer room listening to a speaker at the front. Jummah Prayers
5:15pm - 6:15pm
Worship Room, Multifaith Chaplaincy - St Francis Hall
Every Friday, the Multifaith Chaplaincy hosts two Jummah prayers. The speakers vary from week to week, and there are prayer facilities available for both brothers and sisters, Alhamdulilah. These prayers are organised by the Islamic Society.

Mon 23rd February

A student works on a laptop UK Work Visas: What you need to know
8pm - 9:30pm
Online
Are you an international student or graduate considering work opportunities in the UK? Join us for an informative session on UK work visas delivered by Paragon Law, a specialist immigration law firm based in the UK.

Tue 24th February

A student looks intently at a stall selling cured meats Artisan Market
2pm - 8pm
University Square
Find tasty food, handmade gifts, and more as the bustling Artisan Market comes to campus!
A student looks up at another student, whilst sat studying What is Citation Justice?
2pm - 3pm
Online
Explore the role of influence and power in who we cite, how bias in this area can occur and be addressed, and discover tools for finding literature that is more representative of the global majority.
A student working on a laptop AI for academic writing for PGRs
6pm - 7:30pm
Online
Explore effective and appropriate use of generative AI tools in the context of academic writing and the University's regulations and guidelines for the assessment of research degree theses.

Wed 25th February

Golden Chalice on Table Beside a Priest in Green Chasuble Holy Communion Service
4:30pm - 5pm
Multifaith Chaplaincy, St. Francis Hall
Join students and staff to take time out to hear scripture, contemplate the holy, and feed your spiritual life led by a Methodist or Anglican clergy.
An ASC advisor delivering a workshop Building on your Skills: Critical thinking - how to get a first
5pm - 6pm
Online
In this workshop, hosted by the ASC, we’ll explore how to apply critical thinking skills to your writing in order to achieve higher marks in your assignments.

Thu 26th February

Two students being filmed by a smartphone on campus How to: Get work experience with speculative applications
4pm - 5pm
Room 110, University House
Struggling to find work experiences that suit you? This session will provide you with information on how you can find and apply for opportunities that may not be advertised or are hard to come by.
A student smiles sitting at a desk Increasing your productivity
7:30pm - 9pm
Online
As postgraduate researchers (PGRs), we cannot change the number of hours in a day, but we can use them as effectively as possible. This workshop encourages you to understand your own working preferences to be as productive as possible.

Fri 27th February

Two students aim archery bows Careers in Sport LIVE
1:30pm - 7:30pm
Edgbaston Stadium, Edgbaston Road
With up to 40 exhibitors under one roof, this is your opportunity to connect with employers, training providers and industry organisations offering career pathways in sport and leisure. Book your free place now.
People gathered in a prayer room listening to a speaker at the front. Jummah Prayers
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Worship Room, Multifaith Chaplaincy - St Francis Hall
Every Friday, the Multifaith Chaplaincy hosts two Jummah prayers. The speakers vary from week to week, and there are prayer facilities available for both brothers and sisters, Alhamdulilah. These prayers are organised by the Islamic Society.
People gathered in a prayer room listening to a speaker at the front. Jummah Prayers
5:15pm - 6:15pm
Worship Room, Multifaith Chaplaincy - St Francis Hall
Every Friday, the Multifaith Chaplaincy hosts two Jummah prayers. The speakers vary from week to week, and there are prayer facilities available for both brothers and sisters, Alhamdulilah. These prayers are organised by the Islamic Society.
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