Research Administrators’ Network

What is the Research Administrators’ Network?

As the name suggests, the network consists of research administrative staff across the University. It is facilitated by the Research Office who organise regular network sessions throughout the academic year, twice a term, to give network members operational updates and to provide a forum to exchange ideas, share best practice and disseminate information. Topics for sessions are set by the Research Office and also by members of the network, they are confirmed periodically throughout the academic year to address current practical issues facing research administration.

Format of Network Sessions

The sessions typically consist of a presentation on the main topic, followed by; a discussion, Q & A and then an operational business update.

Notes are taken and circulated to delegates.

A timetable of the whole series of sessions, for the current academic year, together with agendas and notes from previous sessions can be found on to RO website here.

Research Office Mini Conference

The series of network sessions culminate with a Research Office Mini Conference in the Easter term, bringing together members of the network to address a broad, current topic that tackles the issues faced by research administrators over the past year and at the time of the conference. Topics for past conferences have included 'Enabling Successful Collaborations' (2012), 'Working Together to Administer Research' (2011) and 'Adding Value through Research Processes' (2010).

Part of the conference involves discussion islands where delegates are given a platform to share and exchange ideas on a variety of practical issues.

How can I join the Network?

If your role involves research administration you should automatically be added to the network and will receive invitations to attend sessions. If you think that you should be, and are not already, a network member and that it would be useful for you to attend the sessions please contact research.grants@durham.ac.uk.