RESEARCHER DEVELOPERS
Support for Research Staff Developers
This page offers information and links to the range of practical support and resources in relation to the UKRSA that are available for research staff developers who are new to the role.
​
The format of the page is based on a range of queries commonly raised by research staff developers. We hope very much that you will find the information on this page valuable and that it will help you make the most of your experience as a research staff developer.
How can the UKRSA help me in my role?
The UKRSA has published guides, such as 'A Guide to Research Staff Associations (RSAs)' that set out viable models for Research Staff Associations (RSAs). It explores the benefits that RSAs bring to their research staff constituents and the wider university community, the reasons why successful RSAs thrive, and the common challenges that RSAs face for their long-term sustainability. Most importantly, by participating in the UKRSA discussions, you can gain practical tips that help you as a research staff developer to support the development of research staff at your institution, helping to maximise their research outputs and impact, and optimise the development opportunities for independent research careers.
How do I set up an RSA in my institution and what help can the UKRSA provide me?
The UKRSA guide 'Understanding Research Staff Associations and their impact' provides a comprehensive national picture of research staff associations (RSAs). It gives an insight into where RSAs exist, how they are structured and how they engage with institutional processes. During these times of financial pressures, it is a useful reminder to consider how through effectively engaging research staff in their own development, we can harness and target the resources we have available to us. Another guide 'How will getting involved with a research staff association benefit you?' indicates how RSAs and the individuals involve in them - including your role as research staff developer - have the potential to successfully drive and lead the engagement of research staff communities, and in doing so create opportunities for their own career development as well as yours.
How can I contribute to the UKRSA?
Many of our members are researcher staff developers, by participating in UKRSA initiatives and encouraging the formation of new RSAs at local levels, you continue to support and promote UKRSA. Research Staff Associations (RSAs) are an important mechanism for researcher skill development. As a permanent member of staff supporting RSAs provides a much-need continuity both at a national and local level.