A message from Lorna Wilson, ARMA Chair: Reflecting on 2025 and looking ahead

I usually like to be positive, but speaking with colleagues I think we’ve all felt that 2025 has been a really, really challenging year. I think the headlines have been the financial issues and job losses across institutions, at the same time we’ve had lots of uncertainty swirling around potential funding reductions in the Spending Review, uncertainty about the REF etc, so things have been unsettled and difficult. But I’ve been struck by how much as a community we’ve come together, to support one another, lobby for positive change, and ensure that at the end of the day we deliver effectively in our roles so that the UK can continue to deliver world-changing research and innovation.

I am excited going into 2026 though. There’s been a very good Government settlement for investment in R&D, and whilst changes to the REF are still to see details confirmed we know more of what we’re facing, but more than anything I’m excited and proud that 2026 will see the launch of Research Professional Futures, which will see research professional colleagues valued, recognised and supported in our roles, alongside our academic and technical communities, driving parity of esteem and future proofing our profession. I think we’re all due (and really need!) a break, so enjoy your time off over the festive period whatever your plans may be, and let’s show 2026 what we’re made of.