Earlier this year, SAR launched the Early Career Researcher (ECR) initiative, responding to a need to connect those starting out on a career in artistic research within a wider international community. ECRs may have graduated from a programme, left their institutions, and are reorienting themselves towards new ways of carrying on their research and SAR recognise that they may be eager for support in this way.

As part of this initiative, we hosted informal encounters during the SAR 2025 Conference in Porto and opened a dedicated survey to better understand the needs and modes of connecting between early career researchers. In conversation with ECRs the intention is to develop a way of communicating, to present themselves, and to establish a hub or home for such a network. We are grateful to all who shared their experiences and needs, and came to have a chat with us in Porto!
 

Across the survey and conversations, several clear themes emerged:

• A strong need for material and institutional support was highlighted — from financial stability and workspace to infrastructure and time — alongside peer support, mentoring, and clearer pathways to continue research beyond graduation and navigate between academia and independent practice.
   
• Many respondents wish to broaden their skills and networks, seeking collaboration across disciplines, new approaches to publishing and communication, and more teaching and facilitation opportunities. Access to funding, residencies, post-doc positions, and institutional affiliations that offer stability and support for long-term artistic and academic growth were identified as key needs.
   

• Finally, many of you expressed a desire to participate actively in SAR, not only by attending events, workshops, and mentoring schemes, but also by planning and facilitating activities, sharing expertise, and helping to build new communities. A centralised platform for opportunities, grant-writing training, mentorship and career advice and better networking tools was also highlighted.

   

While we develop the next phase of the ECR initiative, here are some ways you can already engage with the SAR community:

• The Research Catalogue (RC) hosts a large community of artistic researchers where, by showcasing your work and reaching out to peers, it is possible to establish initial support networks.
   
• Join or think about starting a Special Interest Group (SIG) — Learn more about SIGs here.
   
• Participate in the yearly SAR Conference.
  Details of the 2026 edition will soon be shared!
   
• Joining the RC Webinars: Upcoming sessions — such as the RC introduction webinar in October — are great entry points. These are all shared in the monthly SAR newsletter.
   
• Submitting your published exposition on the RC for the Annual Prize.
  The open call for submissions will be shared in the coming months, so keep an eye out for the announcement!
   
• Sign up for SARA Announcements via the Research Catalogue - Receive regular updates on calls, events, and opportunities from institutions around the world in your inbox.

Watch this space for more ECR updates!