Research Culture and Community Feedback and Governance

Research Culture is for Everyone

This action plan has been developed collaboratively, shaped by the needs and aspirations of our research community and the broader research environment. It is designed to create focus, drive, and institutional commitment to supporting research culture. However, a positive research culture is not built from the top down - it is nurtured, developed, and sustained by the collective efforts of the entire research community, with everyone playing an essential role.

Just as the design and delivery of this action plan is a shared responsibility, so too is the creation of a positive research culture. It is not the responsibility of one person or department alone, but of everyone working together to foster a supportive and thriving environment.

Our action plan is not a static document. Its purpose is to provide direction and commitment, but as our research culture evolves, so will our actions. We will monitor our progress and update and change the plan to reflect ongoing developments and the wider context in which we operate.

This is a community-driven document, and your input is invaluable. To facilitate ongoing feedback, the virtual suggestion box below has been created where you can share your comments, suggestions, and ideas on how we can continue to cultivate a positive research culture at Ulster. These comments will help to inform the Research Culture steering Committee and future actions.

Virtual suggestion box

Submit your Research Culture feedback, suggestions, comments and ideas to the anonymous Virtual Suggestion Box

VIRTUAL SUGGESTION BOX

Governance

The Research Culture Steering Committee will oversee the governance of the Research Culture Action Plan, continuing to monitor progress and ensure ongoing updates.

Alongside feedback gathered through the virtual suggestion box, a dedicated Research Culture Survey will be launched to capture staff insights and establish a baseline for our future activities.

To support implementation, working groups will be established for each of the five strategic priorities. These groups will review feedback, identify gaps and opportunities, and develop proposals for further action.

Recommendations from these groups will be submitted to the Research Culture Steering Committee, the Research Leadership Team, and the Research and Innovation Committee for review, agreement, and implementation.

Research Culture Steering Committee Members

The Research Culture Steering Committee members represent various areas across the University.  If you have any queries, comments or suggestions, please contact your representative committee member below, or alternatively contact Freda Casey, Research Culture Manager.