Convening teams appointed to guide Signature Research Area investment plans

The University has appointed convening teams for its Signature Research Areas (SRAs), marking the next step in the development of investment plans that will help shape future research priorities.

The appointments follow a strong response from across the University, with many researchers and professional staff expressing interest in contributing to the next steps for the Signature Research Areas.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation Professor Frank Bloomfield said the convenors had been selected for their ability to bring researchers together and foster collaboration across disciplines.

"These are convening roles rather than leadership positions for the Signature Research Areas," said Professor Bloomfield. "The people appointed have demonstrated their ability to connect researchers, build consensus and work collaboratively to develop robust investment plans that will support research excellence across the University."

The convening teams will work alongside an SRA Academic Reference Group made up of senior academics who were involved in the development phase of the SRAs. Associate Deans Research (ADRs) will also remain closely involved. Each SRA has been allocated the equivalent of 1.5 FTE for their respective convening panel members’ time.

Professor Bloomfield thanked everyone who put their names forward and encouraged broad participation in the next stage of the process.

"We were delighted by the number of staff who expressed an interest in being part of a convening team.

"That level of engagement reflects the enthusiasm our researchers have for the University's research future. I encourage those who were not appointed, along with others across the University, to get involved in the investment planning process and help shape these important initiatives."

The SRA convening teams will develop a five-year investment plan for each SRA, helping shape each into an outward-facing ecosystem that fosters long-term collaboration, partnership development, and strategic alignment within and beyond the University.