Online writing retreats return
Posted on Friday 11 September 2026
Alongside everything else that needs to fit in with our busy research lives, it can be hard to schedule devoted time in which to sit, think, and write. Organised by the Research Culture and Researcher Development team (RC&RD), our new online retreats give you time, peace, and space to fend off procrastination and beat writer's block. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges and work in a focused way.
Interested in joining a session? Be sure to consider the following top tips beforehand to make the most of your time:
- Bring a piece of work with you: It might be part of a chapter or article you are writing, or maybe a presentation, bit of data analysis, or feedback you need to work through. Any task that would benefit from focused work time and motivation from your peers is appropriate
- Get ready: Participants find that if they are set up when the retreat gets started, it is easier to focus. Open any documents or applications you need, grab a notebook, shut off your phone and social media in advance
- Get comfortable: Can you create your ideal writing environment? Check your chair and lighting, make a cup of tea or coffee and get comfy. There will be regular breaks, but comfort is important to your productivity.
See the full calendar of planned sessions (UoY log-in required), or contact the RC&RD team for more information (research-culture@york.ac.uk).
About the Research Culture and Researcher Development Team
The Research Culture and Researcher Development Team delivers and coordinates a comprehensive programme of professional development, events and skills training, for all researchers, research-enabling and technical staff at the University of York.
Our programme includes training from the Research Culture and Researcher Development Team, Professional Support Teams and external facilitators, plus a range of internally and externally created on-demand resources.