Narrative CVs

Transitioning from a traditional academic CV to a narrative CV can feel like a daunting task. The information and resources below will guide you through the process.

What is a narrative CV?

Coming Soon:

In January 2025, the Inclusive Research Excellence and Impact team will be hosting a webinar and creating resources to support Western researchers create narrative CV. Sign up today to be notified about webinars and resources.

The Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) defines narrative CV as “as structured description of a researcher’s contributions and achievements that reflect a broader range of skills and experiences beyond publications and funding record.”

The tri-agency CV uses a narrative-style CV template aimed at capturing relevant information from applicants. It is composed of six sections:

Personal statement;
Most significant contributions and experiences; and
Supervisory and mentorship activities

For more information, see the tri-agency CV frequently asked questions.

Why do I need a narrative CV now?

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) and Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) announced that they will be transition from the Canadian Common CV to a new narrative-style CV for funding competitions, beginning in 2025.

“The new CV will prioritize written descriptions of an applicant’s research contributions, allowing users to highlight a wide range of research outputs and to describe their career trajectories in more detail. This format values societal research outcomes, such as influence on policy or mentorship, alongside more traditional research outputs like publications.”

How do I create a Tri-Agency narrative CV?

Western Research expects a final tri-agency CV template to be rolled out in 2025. In the meantime, you may refer to the existing template and instructions.

A few key highlights:

Sections: Personal statement, Most significant contributions and experience, and Supervisory and mentorship activities.
Page Limit: 5 pages (6 pages for CVs written in French)
Formatting: 12 pt font, single line spacing, 2 cm margin (see application guidelines)

Resources

Writing a Narrative CV

Source: University of Dundee
Description: This workbook guides you through reflective questions to help you craft a narrative CV.
Link: Writing a Narrative CV

Narrative CV: resources to help you write one

Source: University of Glasgow
Description: Self-directed modules providing advice, tips, and examples on what to include in a narrative format CV for early career researchers.
Link: Narrative CV: resources to help you write one

Narrative CVs: a Guide for Applicants

Source: University of Oxford
Description: Templates, advice, prompts and suggestions for how to write a narrative CV.
Link: Narrative CVs: a Guide for Applicants