Lister Ireland Research Synergy Event- Top Tips for Applying for the Lister Prize

This video features a panel discussion, focusing on providing advice and top tips for researchers applying for the Lister Prize. The panel includes the Institute's Driector, Julie Goodley, along with four Lister Fellows, Dr Rebecca Corrigan, Professor Aga Gambus, Dr Chris Hill, Dr Lizzy Rosser and Dr Tomás Ryan, who share their experiences and strategies for a successful application. Key Takeaways and Strategies: Framing the Application (02:52 - 03:20): A crucial piece of advice is to clearly communicate why your research matters to a non-expert audience within seconds. Mentorship and Feedback (03:38 - 04:40): The fellows emphasized the importance of seeking feedback from current and former fellows, having peers (even outside your specific field) critique your application for clarity and impact, and undergoing rigorous mock interviews. Technical Feasibility and Innovation (06:33 - 07:15): Especially when working in cutting-edge technology (like Cryo-EM), it is vital to consult with technical experts to ensure that your proposed experiments are feasible, even if you lack extensive preliminary data. Strategic Career Development (14:35 - 17:25): The panelists discussed the long-term nature of preparing for such a fellowship. This involves managing one's career trajectory, proving proactivity through small grants and collaborations, and establishing a unique research niche. The Importance of Networking and Visibility (18:25 - 20:25): Building an international reputation is key. Attending conferences, giving talks, and ensuring your name is recognized in your field help ensure that the panel understands your impact and potential as a future leader. Interdisciplinary Research and Risk (21:26 - 23:30): The fellows discussed the balance between interdisciplinary ambition and risk. They advised that while risky, high-reward projects are valued, you must demonstrate the capacity to execute them successfully, often through strong, established collaborations. Fellowship Academy (26:00 - 27:30): Aga, discusses the Fellowship Academy, which aims to support early career researchers by providing organisation, networking, and mentorship to help them navigate the challenges of building a research career.