(Episode 124) Research Culture 1.0: Reflections from Cat Davies, it has been a blast!

30/07/2025 37 min Episodio 124
(Episode 124) Research Culture 1.0: Reflections from Cat Davies, it has been a blast!

Listen "(Episode 124) Research Culture 1.0: Reflections from Cat Davies, it has been a blast!"

Episode Synopsis

In this episode of the 'Research Culture Uncovered' podcast, Emma Spary, now the Associate Director for Researcher Development and Research Culture at the University of Leeds, hosts a reflective conversation with Professor Cat Davies. As Cat steps down from her groundbreaking role as Dean for Research Culture at Leeds, they discuss her achievements, challenges and contributions over the past four years.They explore the challenges in shaping research culture, the inception of the role, the strategic initiatives launched, and what makes for excellent research culture. This episode provides insights into the practical changes implemented at Leeds, the importance of grassroots involvement, and the future of research culture. Cat reflects on her strategies, the importance of community-driven efforts, and the ongoing challenges in defining research culture. She also shares her future plans in the field of research culture at a sector-wide level. Key messages:The Beginning: What attracted Cat to this role, the first time it was offered at LeedsChallenges and achievements in Research CultureThe Middle: The easiest and hardest parts encountered by Cat, including her proudest moments and key initiativesTransition and Future Plans: Why is now the right time to step away? What Cat hopes to do nextIn this episode Cat references several initiatives and outputs:University of Leeds Research Culture Strategy - launched September 2023The Technician Commitment at LeedsOur resources, case-studies, projects and practiceAll of our episodes can be accessed via the following playlists: Research Impact with Ged Hall (follow Ged on Bluesky and LinkedIn) Research Impact Heroes with Ged Hall Open Research with Nick Sheppard (follow Nick on Bluesky and LinkedIn) Research Careers with Ruth Winden (follow Ruth on Bluesky and LinkedIn) Research talent management Meet the Research Culturositists with Emma Spary (follow Emma on 

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