Research Culture at IBERS

The Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) recognises that excellent research and innovation are underpinned by a positive, inclusive, and supportive research culture. We are committed to creating an environment in which all staff and students feel valued, are able to contribute, and can develop their skills and careers.

Our Approach

IBERS’ approach to research culture combines strategic leadership with strong engagement from staff and students. Since 2022, we have developed structures that enable open dialogue, shared decision-making, and continuous improvement.

Voice Groups and Representation

Voice Groups sit at the heart of research culture at IBERS. These groups bring together staff and students across different roles, including researchers, technicians, professional services staff, and postgraduate students.

Each group:

Provides a forum for discussion of key issues
Nominates representatives to the Research Culture Committee
Contributes directly to shaping IBERS’ culture and priorities

Research Culture Committee

The Research Culture Committee brings together representatives from all Voice Groups and works closely with IBERS leadership to:

Review feedback from across the Institute
Identify priorities and agree actions
Support implementation of improvements

Updates and progress are shared regularly with all staff and students, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Our Activities

Recent research culture activity at IBERS includes:

Establishing IBERS-wide Voice Groups to improve engagement and communication
Creating a Research Culture Committee to coordinate and deliver actions
Delivering CPD workshops and training programmes in response to staff feedback
Supporting early career researchers, including integration into wider University networks
Hosting regular staff and student meetings to share updates and gather feedback
Launching IBERS celebration events and community-building activities
Developing induction materials to support new staff and students

Our Commitment

We are committed to continuously improving our research culture by:

Strengthening communication and trust between staff and leadership
Ensuring inclusive participation across all staff groups
Embedding research culture within our strategy and governance
Supporting a sustainable and positive working environment

Looking Ahead

IBERS is undertaking an ongoing review of its research culture activities to:

Identify priorities for the coming years
Develop a forward People and Culture Strategy
Ensure resources and support are in place to sustain progress

Get Involved

Research culture at IBERS is shaped by its community. We encourage all staff and students to engage through Voice Groups, meetings, and other activities.

If you would like to learn more or contribute to our work, please contact: Jo Walker on jnw@aber.ac.uk