The Manchester Leadership Programme

Researchers

Alan Gilbert, President and Vice Chancellor of the University of Manchester, speaking to an MLP student.

The 2008-9 MLP for Researchers scheme is a pilot programme for a cohort of 35 Doctoral Researchers and Research staff. The MLP are able to offer this prestigious programme to Manchester University's research community for the very first time as a result of a successful application for funding from the Skills Training Development Funds Innovative Project Pot

In January 2009 we received 85 high quality applications for the 35 available places on the programme from researchers from 39 schools across all four faculties.

What is the MLP for Researchers?

The MLP for Researchers comprises 2 elements:

  • 60 hours of approved voluntary service (over a 12 month period commencing 02/02/09)
  • A 'Leadership in Action for Researchers' online unit examining socially responsible leadership in a variety of contexts through an exploration of key issues relating to economic, social and environmentally sustainable development. Follow this link to find out more about the unit
    (the unit runs from 03/03/09 to 26/06/09)
Management is doing things right; Leadership is doing the right things

Peter F. Drucker

Participants who successfully complete both the unit and the voluntary work will receive the prestigious Manchester Leadership Award for Researchers.

The programme offers Researchers:

  • The opportunity to engage with contemporary research across many disciplines.
  • The opportunity to experience an innovative online unit that is a unique example of the potentials of e-learning resources deliverable through Blackboard
  • The opportunity to develop leadership and other transferable skills through volunteering activities within the local community
  • The opportunity to apply research skills to current Third Sector problems, both to benefit local/national charities and NGOs, and to enable you to practice your research skills in a non-academic setting
  • The opportunity to develop vital communication, team work and planning skills.
  • The opportunity to improve employability, both through volunteering activities and through gaining the Manchester Leadership Award (the award has gained strong support from major employers)
  • The opportunity to be actively involved in shaping the MLP for Researchers programme