DCU Researcher Career Framework

NOTE: DCU Researcher Career Framework is under review in 2024.

DCU is a major research institution that has gained worldwide recognition for the work of its researchers. 

The Research Career Framework (RCF) is a three-level developmental pathway designed to support and guide researchers on their wider career path.


The Researcher career framework has three levels - Level 1 Postdoctoral Researcher, Level 2 Research Fellow and Level 3 Senior Research Fellow. The framework progresses with ongoing development from when you enter DCU, through probation and performance review and development.


Person holding petri dish

Research at DCU

The Research Career Framework aims to ensure that DCU remains a University of choice for top-class research and researchers in the future. 


Purpose of the Researcher Career Framework

The Researcher Development Framework (RCF)  is designed to enhance our capability to develop world-class researchers. It provides a structured framework that supports the professional and career development of our researchers by explicitly identifying the competencies and behaviours needed for success and progression. 

The RCF aims to ensure that DCU remains a University of choice for top-class research and researchers in the future. 

Participating researchers are facilitated in developing a set of valuable and transferable skills that will enhance their career opportunities both within and outside the university. The framework supports Principal Investigators (PIs) in delivering excellence in research at DCU.

Structure of the RCF

As above, the RCF has three clear levels of progression structuring the researcher career path. 

Level 1: Postdoctoral Researcher - up to a maximum of 4 years in duration

Level 2: Research Fellow - up to a maximum of 4 years in duration

Level 3: Senior Research Fellow - up to a maximum of 4 years in duration




Further Information