This round-up captures key headlines and discussions from across the UK and European research landscape from the end of October to late November 2025.
Interdisciplinary research (IDR) is no longer a buzzword – it’s a necessity. As global challenges grow more complex, universities are rethinking how they foster collaboration across disciplines. In the first part of a mini-series of Insights articles on interdisciplinary research, we spoke to Dr Maria McPhillips to find out about how interdisciplinarity is enabled across the University of Glasgow (UofG).
October’s research policy announcements signify major transformations in the UK’s Research and Innovation environment. This summary provides details of each announcement, as well as gesturing to what might be at stake.
We turn the RMA Spotlight on Mary Muers, Research Culture Facilitator at the University of Oxford, following her career journey to an exciting role with plenty of scope for thinking creatively and collaborating with colleagues.
As peer review evolves to reflect broader definitions of expertise, research managers are increasingly recognised as valuable contributors. This article explores sector trends, personal reflections and practical steps for contributing to fair, inclusive funding decisions.
As global and local pressures reshape the research landscape, researcher development has become more critical than ever. This article explores how RMA professionals can deliver essential, tailored support that helps researchers navigate change and build skills for success.
This news round-up captures key headlines and discussions from across the research landscape in recent months. From UKRI, Horizon Europe, DSIT and Research Culture and Environment, catch up on the news you may have missed.
Kieran Fenby-Hulse describes his flexible career in academia and research management, detailing his current role and the journey that led him there.
From dodging a Philosophy PhD to juggling ethics, compliance, and funding bids – research support professional Alice Caryer shares her journey to leadership and how she learned to stay calm (and occasionally thrive) in dynamic environments.
Adopting a coaching mindset – focussed on empathy, open questioning and purposeful challenge – can transform your approach to research development. Doug Brown, a leadership coach, recently worked with Stephen Roberts and Cathy Boucher at King’s College London to implement a 4-step toolkit to help RMAs develop the skills necessary to support others in navigating complexity and reach their goals more effectively.
