handbook-executive-leadership-of-research-development-pdf-v10

CREATING A CULTURE WHERE EVERYONE TAKESRESEARCH SERIOUSLYThe University of PortsmouthPrior to establishing the role of Director of Research it was not possible atthe University of Portsmouth to assess performance and progress towardsresearch goals. The first task for the newly appointed Director was toestablish clear expectations for academics by driving change with anambitious target of increasing research income by 20 per cent over fiveyears. A working group was set up to conduct a scoping study of strengthsand weaknesses in relation to the external environment. The leadershipdecided on the final vision and themes to guide the research strategyfollowed by further consultation on the outcomes of the working group.The transformation process was particularly influenced by a collaborativeapproach to developing strategy and action plans, underpinned bycentral investment in thematic research networks with internal funding thatinvolved bidding.The Director prepared a paper on how to put a new strategic plantogether and consulted up and down. Action plans for each faculty werethen developed, each based on a central strategy containing six corethemes. The plans included targets. In collaboration with faculties thisalso involved constructing a definition of ‘what makes a research activeacademic’. Since it varies by subject area they wrote their own. Makingexternal appointments of deans helped to ensure that active researcherswere selected when recruiting.The approach of the executive leader also included: gaining strongcorporate buy-in; removing systemic obstacles to success: using peerreview, mentoring, and rewards; recruiting active researchers and expertsfrom outside; and devolving leadership. Careful monitoring of qualityof external funding applications is an essential element of the strategyusing a peer review college and band of reviewers for all substantialgrant bids. One of the more challenging themes in the research strategyis to integrate education and research. This is being achieved partly byinvolving top researchers in teaching and introducing research internshipsfor undergraduate students.Focus 2 — Taking an assertive-participative approach to leadership51