The RDF
The Vitae Researcher Development Framework (RDF) is a professional development framework for researchers. It describes the knowledge, behaviours and attributes of successful researchers and can be used by individual researchers at all stages of their career.
Note: from academic year 2025/26 Sheffield Hallam University are using the Vitae RDF 2025.
Doctoral researchers at Sheffield Hallam University are required to undertake a skills audit against the 31 descriptors of the RDF 2025 and put together a development plan in conjunction with their Director of Studies. This plan should then be reviewed on a regular basis. New doctoral researchers will be briefed on the arrangements for this during their induction.
Links to further support and guidance on professional development planning
Guidance document – see the RIDA Blackboard site
Vitae online course – Professional Development Planning for Researchers (PDP ROC)
Note: this course is optional and is based on the previous version of the RDF.
Reflective writing – Skills Centre resources on reflective writing
Further information about the RDF can be found on the Vitae website. In order to access full member content you will need to register on the Vitae website with your Sheffield Hallam email address. Link to further information about the RDF on the Vitae website
The RDF was developed by Vitae, which is managed by CRAC: The Career Development Organisation. © Vitae 2025 Careers Research and Advisory Centre (CRAC) Limited.