What is a Theme Network?

What is a Theme Network?

• Theme Networks are forums for cooperation and collaboration between:
  - Existing RRUK members
  - academic researchers from outside RRUK and
  - representatives  from industry
  all of whom share a common interest, knowledge and ability in railway research 
• Networks are the main creative force for the development of RRUK projects and will bring on board new skills and capabilities
• Members of the Network will be able to contribute to RRUK by:
  - Identifying research needs & priorities
  - Sharing knowledge and resources
  - Generating ideas for future projects, synergies and sources of funding

How will Members benefit?

• Members of the Network will have the opportunity to influence the direction of RRUK's Research Strategy and comment on the selection of future RRUK research projects
• Members of the Network will have a number of priviledges:
  - Password-protected access to the Theme Network areas of the RRUK website, which will feature a directory of Network Members, and updates on news and events, including details of plans for new projects and any relevant requests for work
  - Networks will be a key method of disseminating research output (via the website, network seminars, meetings and papers).  Members of the Network will have advanced access to the full text of RRUK research reports and documents; only brief executive summaries will be available to the public in the first instance
  - There will be an annual Seminar, as well as other events for Members of the Network to meet and discuss agreed issues within the scope of the Network
• Academic Network members will have the opportunity to bid for doctoral studentships, under the RRUK DTA
• Although there is a Network for each Theme, membership of one Theme Network will entitle you to participate in all 3.  Your involvement can be as narrow or as broad as you wish.

What is expected of Members?

• Members are urged to attend an annual Theme Seminar, and may be invited to other meetings of the Network at which their input is requested
• Members will allow their contact details, research interests and areas of expertise to be displayed on the Theme Networks Area of the RRUK website
• Industrial members should be prepared to facilitate collaborative working on research projects through support in kind (i.e. access to data, test sites etc.)
• Academic members must have the capability to carry out relevant research and be willing to share knowledge and/or resources

Who pays?

• Members of the Network will pay for their own travel to and fom Network events
• RRUK has allocated a budget for the cost of holding meetings

Who is eligible to become a Member?

• Subject to the approval of the Theme Manager, membership of the Network is open to individuals representing any legitimate railway industry or rail research interest, including:
  • Members of railway, or railway related, industry bodies;
  • Academics and researchers working in relevant fields.

How can I join?

• To complete the online application form CLICK HERE