Helping researchers turn excellent research into real-world impact
Client: Nottingham Trent University (NTU)
Years: 2023-2024
Participants: 35+ Research Staff across All Disciplines
The challenge
Nottingham Trent University recognised that producing excellent research is only part of the impact journey. Researchers increasingly need to engage external stakeholders, identify pathways to impact, and communicate the value of their work beyond academia. NTU wanted to equip researchers across disciplines and career stages with the skills, tools, and confidence to generate greater societal impact from their research.
The UIIN approach
Across 2023-2024, UIIN designed and delivered a bespoke professional development programme for more than 45 researchers, focusing on:
- Impact planning and pathways to valorisation
- Developing an entrepreneurial and impact-oriented mindset
- Stakeholder engagement and relationship building
- Communicating research impact to different audiences
- Applying learning through real-world research projects
The programme combined workshops, expert-led discussions, mentoring, and practical application, helping participants connect impact concepts directly to their own research challenges.This impactful program has been delivered again to the Blue Zone Consortium consisting of Nottingham Trent University, the University of Leicester and Northumbria University Newcastle in 2024.
What We Found
Researchers were highly motivated to create impact but often lacked clear frameworks, practical tools, and opportunities to explore how societal impact could be planned and achieved alongside academic excellence. Many also wanted greater confidence in engaging non-academic stakeholders and communicating the wider value of their work.
The Outcome
✓ More than 35 researchers equipped with practical impact-generation skills
✓ Greater confidence in stakeholder engagement and external collaboration
✓ Stronger understanding of impact pathways and research valorisation
✓ Improved ability to communicate research value to different audiences
✓ A repeatable programme model that was subsequently delivered to the Blue Zone Consortium consisting of Nottingham Trent University, the University of Leicester and Northumbria University Newcastle
Key Lesson
Researchers do not need to choose between academic excellence and societal impact. When provided with the right mindset, tools, and support, they can embed impact thinking throughout the research process and create greater value for society alongside their scholarly contributions.
Client Reflection
“This is the best impact program I have undertaken. The sessions explained both the why and how of impact and helped me to create meaningful relationships with stakeholders. I’ve developed new skills in effective communication, which will support the impact and valorization of my work. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to elevate the impact of their research”.
— Samantha McLean, Senior Lecturer in Microbiology, NTU
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