HERDSA Academic Development Community Meetup

Start 2026 with connection and conversation! 

Join the HERDSA Academic Development Special Interest Group for a networking event designed to help you build community with academic developers across universities, share ideas, and discover collaborative opportunities.

Feel free to share with others! This SIG is open to anyone, regardless of HERDSA membership. 

Format: 
Three SIG organisers will each present a 3–5 minute "quick bite" on a recent paper to spark discussion: 

• Standards for good practice in academic development 

• A potentially new way to allocate students in groups 

• Engaging academics in professional development.  

Then we'll move into breakout rooms where the real magic happens: meeting colleagues, validating shared experiences, and exploring ideas (whether inspired by the papers or your own burning questions). 

Why attend? 
Connecting with peers who understand your work helps you feel less isolated, gain new perspectives, and open doors to collaboration. Whether you're looking for support, inspiration, or simply good conversation with people who "get it," this is your space. 

Join us and make 2026 a year of connection!