Training is a key part of the YBDTP student experience.
We recognise the need to develop bioscientists with a range of research skills. This includes core mathematical and data analysis skills, as well as broader professional competencies you may need for bioscience research in the coming decades. We offer a structured programme of cohort-wide training modules developed specifically for the YBDTP.
Annual training schedule 26/27
The core training schedule for the YBDTP is made up of four key events throughout the academic year, these are listed below along with this years dates
| Event | Date | Location | Cohort |
| Autumn Resedential | Thursday 17th – Friday 20th November 2026 | YHA National Forest Derbyshire | All 1st year YBDTP students |
| Winter Symposium | Friday 4th December 2026 | Cloth Hall Court, Leeds | All students |
| Spring Training Day | End of March 2027, date tbc | University of York Biology Department | All students |
| Summer AGM | Friday 27th June 2027, date tbc | The Edge, University of Sheffield | All students and incoming PGRs |
Spring Training Day
Bringing together the whole cohort with training tailored to each year group. This training day focuses on data analysis (1st year students), science communication (2nd year students), BioEnterprise (3rd year students) and employability, thesis and viva preparation (4th year students).
Summer Annual General Meeting (AGM)
Bringing together the whole cohort again for a presentation of 4th year research and other training and social activities, with input from our Strategic Advisory Board (SAB).
Autumn Residential
An opportunity for 1st year students to spend several days together at an off-site residential activity centre in October/November, for example in the National Forest.
Winter Symposium
Organised by our student reps, a celebration of the research of our Postgraduate Researchers. The symposium offers the opportunity for 4th year students to present their research or PIPS experience to the rest of the cohort, and for 3rd year students to present research posters.
We also welcome inspirational keynote speakers. Take a look at previous symposiums from the White Rose Mechanistic Biology DTP for examples.
As well as the YBDTP-organised training, there is a range of training courses, seminars, conferences and other events offered across the partner universities.
These opportunities will be communicated throughout the year by the YBDTP and respective institutions.
Support
Student supervisory teams offer further support in reflecting on their progress and identifying individual training needs.