CV Formats

3 – The Application Form and Process

Most applications will involve some kind of CV or resumé, but formats vary between fields and across different cultures, and new versions (e.g., narrative CV) have been proposed and taken up in some areas.

Typically, CVs are either structured functionally (based around skills) or chronologically. Regardless of the format, it is important to provide guidance on the expectations of the CV if you require one to be submitted by applicants. Even if you decide to stick with a ‘typical’ CV for your location and the field you are advertising in, to ensure diverse applicants are treated equitably, it is important not to assume their knowledge about the ‘typical’ CV format you are expecting.

You can ensure EDI here by:

Giving a link to a CV writing guidance blog which aligns with your expectations
Providing a list of requirements
Sharing a template to complete
Providing an example CV

If the success of your applicants hinges on them providing certain details, or a certain level of detail in sections of their CV, this information should be explicit.

Narrative CVs

The EDI benefits of narrative CVs are mixed and it is worth researching whether they will be beneficial for your intended applicants (see here).

These CVs are also known as the Résumé for Researchers (R4R) or the Résumé for Research and Innovation (R4RI). Specific templates, such as the UKRI template, are available online as some funders require applicants to follow them.

If you are considering developing your own narrative-style CV template, you can find a synthesis of existing templates and guidance.

SECTION 3: The Application Form and Process

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If you are requesting references, clearly communicate what you expect it to contain and alert referees to unconscious bias issues.