This page covers issues relating to Fixed-Term Contracts (FTCs). The majority of FTC staff in Sheffield are contract research staff, and these notes are slanted in their direction. Most of the material also applies to other contract staff, however. For more information, contact the local UCU committee; see also our discussion paper on Research Careers.

Local Negotiations

The current terms and conditions of FTC staff have been negotiated by the UCU over the last several years:

• AUT Model Agreement
• SAUT local presentation notes
• Your Rights- Fixed term Contract Staff
• Thompsons Solicitors notes

HR Guidelines for FTCs

• Fixed Term Contracts: Information regarding criteria
• Fixed Term Contracts: Information for Managers

Materials for Research Staff

From Sheffield UCU:

• Life as a Contract Researcher
• A discussion paper on Research Careers from Sheffield UCU, Feb 2008.

From Sheffield University:

• Careers service resources
• Research Leaders programme

UCU national links:

• The scandal of fixed-term staff in HE
• Fixed-term contract FAQs
• Campaign resources
• Fixed-term, part-time and hourly paid staff
• Fixed-term and hourly paid workers
• Sheffield university researchers get organised

Reports from various national bodies:

• Council for science and Technology 'Pathways to the future - the early career of researchers in the UK'
• The Rugby team 'What are HEI Research Staff for ?'
• The Rugby team 'Employers' views of researcher skills'
• Universities UK Research Careers Initiative
• Roberts report on the supply of science and engineering skills
• House of Commons Science and Technology Committee - Eighth Report, 2002
• RCUK concordat on Research Careers