Future Research Leaders

Researchers, like other members of UWA’s community also need access to ongoing professional development. However, the nature of research work means that the content and focus of these activities needs to reflect the different ways that research operates. This is an exciting year for research development as we launch our new Future Research Leaders Programme. This is a joint collaboration with other Group of Eight universities culminating in the development of nine purpose-built learning modules designed specifically for Go8 researchers.

The programme comprises the Settling In induction module as well as eight further modules that explore various aspects of research project management. They employ a blended learning approach so that participants can preview the content material ahead of time. The workshops then build on that material rather than disseminating information. This allows everyone to maximise the value of that face to face contact to learn from their peers, share strategies and apply that new knowledge into their own context.

This is leading edge material – in fact, we have other nations asking when they can access the modules for their own networks. So don’t miss out – choose one, several or all of the modules to suit your needs now. You will find the modules are great for building a practical knowledge of research projects and how they can be effectively managed and led. The modules are suited to anyone involved in managing research project flows, teams or budgets – or planning to do so. The University sees this area of researcher capability as extremely important and strongly encourages its staff to participate in this programme.

How does it work? You can enrol in the programme through the Settling In induction module or through any of the eight research project management modules. In brief, the modules are:

• Research Strategy and Planning

  Effective research must be carefully planned to achieve the best outcomes for the researcher/s, the university and the furthering of knowledge. This first module explores the initial stage of research project management: designing and costing the project as well as operating within the broader research and political context. This module is suited to any researcher who is developing a new grant proposal or project area.

• Commencement and Collaboration: Putting ideas into practice

  There are many issues to address once funding for a research project has been obtained. This module explores the first year of a research project to ensure successful start-up and consolidation. The module is extremely valuable for all grant recipients.

• Governance and Compliance: Protecting yourself, your research and your university

  Research is bound by significant governance expectations, responsible research practices and the need to comply with statutes and regulations. This module examines the policy and risk management context in which research operates and the resultant requirements for research practice. This is must know information for all researchers.

• Intellectual Property, Knowledge Transfer and Commercialisation

  The intellectual capital within the research project needs to be carefully preserved and managed. This module provides an overview of how intellectual property is defined and managed at UWA. It explores the potential for commercialisation of research outcomes and also examines the issues relating to knowledge management within a research setting. A useful module for each of us – but particularly important for those working in areas where the research outcomes have high commercial potential.

• Financial, resource and risk management

  Research projects must operate within the funding and resource constraints agreed at start-up. The researcher must therefore carefully manage the resources to ensure they support the full research life cycle. This module explores some useful principles and practices for managing the financial processes, assets and risks attached to research. It emphasises the importance of monitoring the progressive expenditure and management of the project to achieve the agreed outcomes. This is particularly useful for research leaders and team leaders.

• Grant and Contract Administration

  Research grants and contracts are legally binding agreements between the provider and the researcher. This module explores the nature of research grants and contracts. It examines the principles of effective grant management and explores the responsibilities of the researcher with respect to the execution and reporting of project outcomes. It is essential for any researcher with responsibility for a grant execution.

• Managing People in a Research Context

  Research projects require some particular approaches to managing people. We will explore the ongoing management of the research team and allied contributors and particular management issues that may arise. We will focus on management within the distinctive research context of constrained periods of employment and tight timelines. If you have responsibility for managing students, research teams, research centre or a programme of research, this is most important. It will make a real difference to how your group operates.

• Project Closeout

  The successful completion of the research project requires a number of closure processes relating to research, people, finance, knowledge, assets and media management. This module effective closing out of the project life-cycle and the initiation of new allied projects.

Other research-related workshops.

Additional specific workshops to support researchers are being offered during the year. Express Route: Effective Research Mentoring offers an opportunity for mentees and mentors to explore how they can develop an effective mentor partnership. This is also suitable for those wishing to develop mentoring schemes.

Successful UWA Research Projects: A Quick Checklist offers a quick overview of research project life cycles and the strategies that need to be covered. This is a one-hour focused review – well worth the time.