What it is. This is a program of part-time secondments (a couple of afternoons per week), which typically last 8-12 weeks, and is dedicated to PhD students in their second or third year.
During this time, the student joins a team and is assigned a project to work on collaboratively, but under close supervision. This gives the opportunity to learn not only about a new area, but also about the diverse roles and tasks that exist in that area and how they are structured.
Why it is important. These placements offer a valuable and insightful experience, and allow participants to develop hands-on skills in areas like scientific communication, intellectual property protection or research data management.
What is in it for you. In addition to providing useful - or even necessary - tools for a future in research, this may also be an eye-opening experience of a range of career directions. You may discover that data stewardess, science podcasting or patent litigation are your things.