In this post, Al Innes, Research Development Officer, shares the vision for the recently designed Research Development Network and highlights discussion points about the work of the network from the Research Support Services Conference.
In recent months, colleagues within Edinburgh Research Office, Institute of Academic Development, Edinburgh Innovations and the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine have established a Research Development Network to showcase best practice in the Research Development space at the University.
What is the Research Development Network?
The Research Development Network is first and foremost a forum for creators and users of research development training and resources. We understand that roles across the HE sector and within the University incorporate varying degrees of research development activity and there really is no industry definition, so the network is open to any colleagues who feel their work would benefit; or who feel that they have relevant insights to share.
The network was launched at a workshop for colleagues from across the University at the recent Research Support Services Conference. The workshop introduced a selection of the Research Development training that is available to academics across the institution, including Edinburgh Innovations’ Engage platform and the Competency Framework for Research Funding.
Why do it?
The primary aim of the Research Development Network is to build a community of practice for research development with a focus on sharing current best practice, including project and activity setup, event design and delivery for research development and lessons learnt from past activity. Additionally the network will provide a space to share ideas around emerging trends and strategic directions in the Research Development space.
How can you get involved?
The Network will announce its first set of discussion groups and events in the spring. If you would like to be included in these communications – and to be able to contribute ideas for future activity – you can join the mailing list and MS Teams site by completing this contact form:
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