Research Culture and Environment

Transforming the culture of research and its environment for the benefit of all

On this page
Let's co-create a research culture that not only supports but inspires.

Dr Sandra Oza - Head of Research Culture and Environment

We want to develop a refreshed approach to research culture.

Adapted from from the Royal Society, our university sees research culture as the sum of behaviours, values, expectations, attitudes and norms of our research, academic and professional communities. The environment created influences everyone and underpins the way that research is conducted, valued and communicated.

Our vision

Transforming the culture of research and its environment for the benefit of all

  • Establish and promote a world-class, inclusive environment that welcomes everyone.
  • Embrace holistic cultural diversity by comprehensively understanding and appreciating the various micro- cultures within our diverse communities.
  • Foster pride, respect, and equal opportunities for all people within the university.
  • Clearly communicate the expectations of funders and establish sustainability goals for long-term success.
  • Drive cultural advancements both locally and globally, contributing to a richer and more interconnected research society
As the steward of our University's research culture, my vision is to create an ecosystem where curiosity is celebrated, collaboration is second nature, and breakthroughs are a collective achievement.

Professor Lisanne Gibson - Vice-Principal (Research)

Research Culture and Environment - the wider context

We believe research culture and environment is crucial for fostering a thriving and sustainable research community. This aligns with the findings of the Wellcome 2020 survey on the experiences on research cultures, which signalled the stringent need for change. Also, our action anticipates the now declared focus of the 2029 Research Excellence Framework (REF) exercise on the assessment of People, Culture and Environment, as an essential feature of research excellence.  The University has secured a £1 million Institutional Funding for Research Culture (IFRC) award from the Wellcome Trust to advance strategies promoting positive research cultures.

Enabling plan

  • Establishing a dedicated implementation team for fostering a positive and inclusive research culture.
  • Co-developing strategies through consultation to ensure broad input and participation.
  • Transitioning from a concordat to a culture-centric approach for more comprehensive and sustained impact.
  • Acknowledging the significance of micro cultures within the research community.
  • Addressing systemic and structural issues to create a more equitable and supportive research environment.

Our team

Contact us