Research Professional Futures Featured on Research Adjacent Podcast
The Research Professional Futures (RPF) project has recently been featured on the Research Adjacent podcast, offering a valuable opportunity to share …
Our Approach
What We’re Doing
The RPF project delivers a comprehensive programme of research, engagement, and sector-wide collaboration across our four interconnected work packages: Context, Competencies, Concepts and Culture.
Latest RPF Activity
RPF Programme Board holds inaugural meeting in Darlington
On the 15th of April, the Research Professional Futures (RPF) Programme Board convened for its inaugural meeting in Darlington, bringing members toget…
WP1: Context
Understanding RP Roles Across the UK
Leads: Lorna Wilson & Steph Bales
This WP delivers the first comprehensive national audit of RP roles, services, structures, demographics, and competencies.
Activities include:
- A National Commission
- Qualitative research (focus groups, interviews, Delphi surveys)
- Quantitative surveys across the sector
WP2: Competencies
Professional Development Framework
Leads: Steph Bales & Isabella von Holstein
This WP develops a sector‑wide skills, behaviours, and career progression framework for RPs, hosted on a free digital platform.
Activities include:
- The RP Professional Development Framework
- Recruitment toolkit
- Job description analysis via jobs.ac.uk
WP3: Concepts
A strand of funding is for RP communities
Leads: Isabella von Holstein & Rika Nair
This WP funds and pilots a portfolio of institutional and regional initiatives to enhance and futureproof RP roles, including emerging technologies and shared service models.
Activities include:
- Funding pilot projects
- Emerging developments (AI and shared services)
- Support for RP communities, including those at an early stage of development
- Sector‑wide insight
WP4: Culture
The RP Blueprint
Leads: Rika Nair & Lorna Wilson
This WP develops a long‑term change strategy for embedding RP visibility, recognition, and progression across the sector.
Activities include:
- Co-creation and testing of a practical “RP Blueprint” consolidating frameworks, tools, survey data and case studies
- Community of practice and workshops
- National conference and awards
Outcomes and Impact
- Provide the RP Community with clear career pathways and recognition as experts in research.
- Institutions equipped to develop and sustain a skilled, motivated workforce ready for evolving research needs.
- Sector enriched by a bank of innovative case studies and a blueprint for best practice and future ways of working.
We are all here for the Research.
