Dynamic and inclusive RDI careers – What works in improving sectoral mobility, inclusion and productivity of research teams? How does working culture differ across different sectors, disciplines and regions?
Background
SRID evidence aims to ensure that DSIT’s significant RDI budget is invested effectively and that we understand its impact and value for money. The Science, Technology and Innovation Analysis Team (STIA), the analytical team supporting SRID, develop the evidence base via internal analysis, cross-Whitehall collaboration and externally commissioned research projects. STIA work closely with other analytical teams in DSIT and DSIT’s partner organisations.
STIA continuously work to improve our approach and methods of valuing RDI investment to fully showcase and evidence its value to the UK. We are also interested in developing new real-time performance monitoring tools to allow for more agile decision-making and significantly improve our Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) capabilities. Improving our methodology for measuring economic, social and research benefits of RDI is also our priority.
SRID and STIA want to develop a stronger evidence base of the foundations of the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) system including how to: 1) grow the RDI workforce by improving the domestic pipeline, attracting and retaining the most talented RDI workers and supporting diverse, dynamic and creative careers 2) develop strong and sustainable RDI institutions that foster innovation 3) identify and capitalise on RDI clusters in the UK to support the levelling up agenda.
We also aim to develop a better understanding of how RDI policy can best drive economic growth, better jobs and discoveries. We aim to do this through identifying the best methods for measuring adoption and diffusion of innovation as well as drivers and barriers to innovation to create conditions for an increased investment in innovation.
A skilled and qualified workforce is critical for effective RDI activity. The following research questions will help DSIT build a strong evidence base of how to foster a large, varied base of skilled, technical and entrepreneurial talent.
Next steps
If you are keen to register your interest in working and connecting with DSIT Science, Innovation, and Research Directorate, and/or submitting evidence, then please complete the DSIT-ARI Evidence survey - https://dsit.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cDfmK2OukVAnirs
Link to ARIs : https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/department-for-science-innovation-and-technology-areas-of-research-interest/dsit-areas-of-research-interest-2024
Related UKRI funded projects
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Sustainable Careers for Researcher Empowerment
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Why might this be relevant?
The SECURE project aims to improve research careers and mobility, which aligns with the question on improving sectoral mobility and productivity of research teams.
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Fostering Inclusive Innovation: Empowering Pathways to Unlock Untapped Academic Talent
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Why might this be relevant?
The Pathways project focuses on connecting universities and businesses, which partially addresses the question on improving sectoral mobility and productivity of research teams.
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Delivering Knowledge, Skills and Opportunities to RTPs Nationally Leveraging the UK Technology Specialist Network (TSN)
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Why might this be relevant?
The TSN project aims to support the development of Research Technical Professionals, which partially aligns with the question on improving sectoral mobility and productivity of research teams.