Celebrating the success of the 3rd RLUK Research Catalyst Cohort

ARMA is proud to have once again partnered with Research Libraries UK (RLUK) to deliver the Research Catalyst Cohort Programme, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). Now in its third iteration, the programme has continued to play an important role in supporting colleagues working in research and academic libraries to develop the confidence, skills and networks needed to engage with research and research funding.

Running from September 2025 to July 2026, this latest cohort brought together library professionals from across the sector to explore the research funding landscape, develop funding applications, benefit from expert-led workshops, and receive personalised mentoring and coaching support.

William Nixon, RLUK’s Deputy Executive Director commented that “RLUK has been delighted with our partnership with ARMA and we want congratulate all of the members of the Cohort for their work and commitment and colleagues at ARMA for all of their support.”

Feedback from the programme highlighted the significant impact it continues to have. Every participant reported that the programme met their learning objectives, with100% rating the programme as good or excellent. They highlighted the quality of the workshops, mentoring opportunities and peer learning experiences, as well as the supportive environment created throughout the programme.

Additionally, the evaluation demonstrated that the programme had helped participants see themselves as researchers. Many reported increased confidence in developing funding applications, a stronger understanding of the research funding landscape, and a greater belief in their ability to contribute to and lead research activity. Confidence in developing funding applications increased significantly, while several participants moved from aspiration to action by planning to submit grant applications, joining research projects, and building new collaborations and networks.

One participant described the programme as “cumulatively transformational”, while another reflected that it had helped them realise that “I am a researcher in my own right and that I can make a valuable contribution.”

Many of the cohort have also begun sharing their learning with colleagues, advocating for the role of libraries as research partners, and contributing to a growing culture of research and innovation within their institutions.

The programme’s success would not have been possible without the generosity, expertise and commitment of ARMA’s volunteer speakers, facilitators and mentors who supported the cohort throughout the year. Participants consistently praised the value of mentoring, highlighting the encouragement, practical advice and personalised guidance they received. ARMA are incredibly grateful to everyone who volunteered their time to help inspire and support the next generation of library-based researchers and research leaders.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Research Libraries UK for being such an excellent partner throughout the development and delivery of this programme. Our shared commitment to strengthening research capability, confidence and collaboration across the sector has helped create a programme that delivers lasting value for participants, their institutions and the wider research community.

Find out More: RLUK libraries X research