Research impact is the demonstrable contribution that research makes to society, the environment, and the economy by tackling some of the challenges faced in the world and its inhabitants today. Impact is important because it helps keep a focus on the overall purpose, rather than the process, of research. At a more everyday level, research impact matters to individual researchers because it matters to funders, including tax-payers, and as it justifies the time and effort that goes into research.
To help develop impact skills and an understanding of how impact is achieved, we are joining up with the Energy IRC and Maxwell Centre to host an advanced workshop on research impact for early career researchers (ECRs)*. The course will be delivered by Mike Colechin and Andy Boston of Heuristic Games and will take place in Cambridge on 23 May 2023.
The workshop is for UK-based ECRs, who are actively conducting energy research and are interested in a whole systems approach to energy research. It will be an interdisciplinary event, and we are keen to ensure inclusivity through support for carers, and other accessibility related measures. The event is organised by UKERC and the Energy IRC and hosted at the Maxwell Centre.
Workshop details
Using well-established business game methodologies, participants will gain:
Hands on experience of developing an impact-based approach, building understanding of how to turn research outputs into tangible outcomes.
Knowledge of engaging multiple stakeholders, understanding the needs of different actors and how to deliver benefits to them effectively.
In addition, the business game environment is a safe place in which to develop and enhance personal skills such as:
- Strategic thinking and risk management
- Teamwork and negotiation
- Presentation and communication
Deadline for applications: 28 April 2023
To register please complete the application form at the link below and return it to Kajsa-Stina Longuere k.longuere@ukerc.ac.uk
https://ukerc.ac.uk/events/inclusive-advanced-workshop-on-research-impact/
A vegetarian lunch will be provided and participants will have the opportunity to network with senior academics with a view to discussing career paths and the development of their researcher identities.
Important dates
Deadline for applications: 28 April 2023
Successful applicants notified: 1 May 2023
Deadline for confirming attendance: 3 May 2023
Our definition of ECR’s aims to capture individuals employed to conduct research activities on precarious contracts (e.g. open-ended, fixed term or project-funded) and who have not previously led a project exceeding £100k. Mid-career researchers are also welcome to apply, as long as they also meet this definition.