Emerging Researcher Network (ERN): A network for Early and Mid-Career Researchers
The Emerging Researcher Network (ERN) is a researcher-led community that connects and supports University of Auckland academic staff members, including Postdoctoral Fellows, (Senior) Research Fellows, and (Senior) Lecturers.
ERN brings together researchers from all faculties and large-scale research institutes (LSRIs), creating opportunities to build professional networks, develop research leadership skills, explore interdisciplinary collaborations, and access funding opportunities.
Since launching in 2025, the ERN has:
- Established representation across all faculties and LSRIs
- Built a network of approximately 2,000 emerging researchers
- Delivered successful cross-faculty networking events
- Created an interdisciplinary seed fund to support new research collaborations
What we do
The ERN helps early and mid-career researchers to:
- Connect with researchers across disciplines and research areas
- Build professional networks and research collaborations
- Access interdisciplinary seed funding opportunities
- Develop research leadership and career pathways
- Contribute to a stronger voice for emerging researchers across the University
For more information on the ERNs committee, purpose, objectives, and responsibilities, see the ERN terms of reference [University sign-in required].
Why join the ERN?
Joining the ERN provides opportunities to grow your professional network, collaborate with researchers from different disciplines, access funding opportunities, and contribute to a vibrant community of emerging researchers across the University.
How to connect
The ERN has representatives across all Faculties and LSRIs. Contact us via email and we'll ensure your enquiry is directed to the appropriate Faculty, LSRI, or committee representative. Researchers are encouraged to get in touch to:
- Suggest activities, events, or researcher development opportunities
- Raise issues affecting early and mid-career researchers
- Explore interdisciplinary networking and collaboration opportunities
- Enquire about the ERN Seed Fund and other ERN initiatives
- Express interest in contributing to or becoming involved with the committee
Recent ERN news and events
Read highlights from recent ERN activities, funding initiatives, and researcher events on Campus Kōrero:
- Seed Fund awardees [University sign-in required]
- Career Development Day [University sign-in required]
Committee members
The ERN has representatives across all Faculties and LSRIs. For an up-to-date list of all committee members, see the document below;
- ERN committee members [University sign-in required]
Contact us
Have a question, an idea for an ERN activity, or an issue affecting emerging researchers that you would like to raise? Email us.
Contact: ern@auckland.ac.nz