A narrative CV, gives you the opportunity to provide a structured written description of a researchers key achievements and contributions that reflect a wide range of skills and experiences. In a series of structured paragraphs, you outline a concise overview of your contributions to the field of knowledge, research area and society as a whole. The point of a narrative CV is to focus on key achievements over productivity.
The Narrative CV should be used to show you have the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out your proposed research.
Different funders will have different criteria and CV templates for you to use so ensure you use the correct ones for your funding application.
Funders often prohibit the use of journal or publication metrics in narrative CVs. As such it is crucial to be aware of this as the inclusion of any metrics in these applications may render your application ineligible for review.
Additional information
Narrative CVs usually allow researchers to give information in four areas:
But do check the requirements of your specific funder or potential employer as their requirements (and narrative CV formats) may differ.
For each heading you are expected to give up to 3 examples/achievements backed up by evidence of your contributions in this area.
When creating a Narrative CV based on key achievements it is important to follow funder guidelines and include the following information:
Research Excellence: Highlight your significant research accomplishments, such as breakthrough findings, novel methodologies, or contributions to the advancement of your field. Include details on the significance and impact of your research, such as publications in high-impact journals, citations, and awards received.
Research Impact: Describe the broader impact of your research beyond academia, such as its potential societal, economic, or industrial impacts. Highlight any collaborations with industry partners, commercialisation efforts, or contributions to policy development or public health initiatives.
Funding and Grants: Include details of the research grants or funding you have secured, emphasising the competitive nature of the grants, the amount awarded, and the impact of the funded research on your field or society.
Collaborations: Highlight any collaborations you have established with other researchers, institutions, or industry partners, emphasising the significance and outcomes of these collaborations. Include details on joint publications, patents, or other tangible outcomes.
Leadership and Supervision: Highlight any leadership roles you have taken in research projects, such as leading a research team or supervising graduate students or postdoctoral researchers. Describe your role and the impact of your leadership on the research outcomes.
Publications and Presentations: Include a list of your publications, with an emphasis on high-impact journals or conferences. Provide details on your contributions to each publication, such as your role and the significance of the work. Highlight any invited talks, keynote speeches, or presentations at prestigious conferences or forums.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Highlight any involvement in innovation or entrepreneurship activities, such as patents filed, licenses obtained, or startups founded based on your research. Describe the impact of your innovative efforts on society, economy, or industry.
Awards and Honours: Include any awards, honours, or recognition you have received for your research excellence and impact, such as prestigious awards, fellowships, or honours from recognised organisations or institutions.
Outreach and Engagement: Highlight any involvement in science outreach or public engagement activities, such as public lectures, media appearances, or contributions to science communication efforts. Describe the impact of your outreach efforts on raising awareness about your research and its societal relevance.
Ensure that the CV is well-structured, easy to read, and tailored to the specific requirements of the funding application. Follow funder guidelines regarding formatting, page limits, and any other specific instructions provided. Provide accurate and up-to-date information, and use concise and compelling language to showcase your key achievements in research excellence and impact.