Most researchers are working on things that matter beyond their academic discipline. But few have been shown how to make that connection.
This series of workshops give researchers the practical tools to communicate their work clearly, identify the people and organisations who could actually use it, and build a plan to make that happen.
Programme 1: Strategic Communications for Research Impact
Researchers learn to see their work through the eyes of their audiences — and design a communications strategy that connects findings to real-world influence, not just publications. Draws on strategic communications models from policy, advocacy, and civil society, translated into tools researchers can use.
Participants leave with: a mapped impact pathway, an audience profile, a plain-language version of their research, and a short action plan they can implement immediately.
Formats
2 × 90-minute sessions online (most common format)
Half-day in person
Full-day intensive
Optional 1:1 coaching clinics post-workshop
Programme 2: Mastering Collaboration & Knowledge Exchange
A method-first workshop on how to design cross-sector partnerships that actually work. Covers choosing the right mode of engagement, mapping stakeholders, setting governance agreements, and building a concrete 30-day plan.
Participants leave with a stakeholder map, a collaboration charter, ready-to-use email scripts, and a 30-day next-step plan anchored to a project they bring on the day.
Why universities bring this in
Improves the quality of impact planning across research team
Supports early REF and KEF case study thinking without becoming a arduous exercise
Helps researchers communicate clearly and secure external partnerships
Gives researchers a framework directly usable in grant applications and bids
Already delivered: King's College London and Royal Holloway, University of London