Discover PeerLadder – a Q&A webinar for prospective applicants

16 April 2026
11:00 am
12:00 pm

Join us online to learn about the PeerLadder peer-mentoring programme, who it’s for, how to apply, and what the experience involves. Bring your questions – this session is designed to help you decide if it’s right for you.

About PeerLadder

PeerLadder is a new peer-mentoring and leadership development programme funded by DisCouRSE and supported by ELIXIR-UK. It is designed to support digital Research Technical Professionals (dRTPs) from underrepresented backgrounds – helping them develop skills, confidence, and peer networks to move into informal or formal leadership roles.

This informational webinar is your chance to hear from the team, understand the application process, and ask any questions before the 27 April deadline.

What to expect

  1. Programme overview – A short introduction to PeerLadder: its aims, structure, and what participants can expect across the full programme timeline.
  2. Who should apply – We’ll explain the eligibility criteria, including what counts as a dRTP role and what we mean by underrepresented in leadership.
  3. How to apply – A walkthrough of the application form: what each question is looking for, how long responses should be, and what makes a strong application.
  4. Live Q&A – Open question time with the PeerLadder team. No question is too small. This is your opportunity to clarify anything before you apply.

Who should attend

  • Work in a UK research-performing organisation
  • Have 3+ years in a dRTP or equivalent technical research role
  • Are interested in leadership (formally or informally)
  • Self-identify as belonging to an underrepresented group

Applications close 27 April 2026

Register for the webinar on 16 April, or go straight to the application page to get started. Contact peerladder@elixiruknode.org with any questions.

Speakers / organisers from ELIXIR-UK
  • Saskia Lawson-Tovey
    • University of Manchester
  • Xènia Pérez Sitjà
    • Earlham Institute
Member organisations involved
  • University of Manchester
  • Open Life Sciences (OLS)
  • Earlham Institute