Magdalena’s retreat is so much fun, it gives you a space to open up to your true self. It gives you so much food for thought and allows you to…
Healthy Research Cultures
Let’s explore together: what is a research ecosystem
All research takes place in an ecosystem and at its center are people. From staff to students, technical and administrative staff, to group and sectional research leaders.
But the ecosystem extends far more widely. It also includes funders, the industry as well as policymakers. When we talk about research culture what we’re essentially talking about it how such ecosystems operate at and across all levels. This culture is also sensitive to many other cultural, political and socioeconomic forces.
Consider for a moment the impact that Brexit has had on the recruitment and retention of researchers. Or that student fees and immigration policies impact the recruitment of overseas students. Or how post-Covid flexible working is impacting research groups and staff morale.
What is culture and why it matters
Research culture is a term that includes behaviors, values, expectations, attitudes and norms of research communities.
Increasingly, national and international funders and policymakers are recognizing the critical importance of a positive and inclusive research culture in attracting diverse talents and creating conditions where the best research and creative thinking can happen.
Key challenges
This is easy to write into policies but far more difficult to implement and maintain. First and foremost, research culture is not monolithic.
We find culture at every level: team/group, department/school, institutions, as well as geography. And each discipline has its specific cultures and norms.
One thing is for sure, a positive research culture supports the wellbeing of all its members.
Key challenges to research culture:
We have over 15 years of working with entire ecosystems to support long-term healthy research cultures.
Start by reading this helpful article covering 5 Tips to Improve your research culture at any level.
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