Research Culture Uncovered

Research Culturosity, University of Leeds

At the University of Leeds, we believe that all members of our research community play a crucial role in developing and promoting a positive and inclusive research culture. Across the globe, the urgent need for a better Research Culture in Higher Education is widely accepted – but how do you make it happen? This weekly podcast focuses on our ideas, approaches and learning as we contribute to the University's attempt to create a Research Culture in which everyone can thrive. Whether you undertake, lead, fund or benefit from research - these are the conversations to listen to if you want to explore what a positive Research Culture is and why it matters. Unless specified in the episode shownotes, Research Culture Uncovered © 2023 by Research Culturosity, University of Leeds is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. This license requires that reusers give credit to the creator. If you remix, adapt, or build upon the material, you must license the modified material under identical terms. Some episodes may be licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0, please check before use.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    (Episode 136) Beyond the Pain Scale: Embodied Research — with Dr Neko Mellor

    Show Notes Episode Summary: In Beyond the Pain Scale: Embodied Research, host Dr Heledd Jarosz-Griffiths speaks with Dr Neko Mellor about how chronic pain, disability, and neurodiversity shape both research and writing. Drawing on her PhD in English at the University of Leeds, Neko explores how twenty-first-century women authors represent pain, reflecting on the limits of medical pain scales, the challenges of articulating ongoing pain, and what it means to research through the body. Blending literary analysis with lived experience, she examines how pain is expressed, understood, and misunderstood—both medically and culturally—and what this means for disabled and neurodivergent researchers navigating academia. Content note: This episode discusses chronic pain, disability, neurodiversity, and lived experience in research. These themes include personal reflections on illness, embodiment, and medical care. While the conversation is supportive and aims to promote understanding and inclusion, some listeners may find aspects of it emotionally resonant. If the issues raised in this episode affect you, please see the support and resources linked below. Key takeaways 🔹 Beyond the Pain Scale Neko critiques conventional pain measurement, showing how numerical scales capture intensity but overlook meaning, context, and emotional reality. 🔹 Writing Through Pain Exploring memoir, lyric essays, and autoethnography, Neko reveals how narratives struggle to contain ongoing pain—and how resisting neat endings can be an act of truth. 🔹 Embodied and Neurodivergent Research Drawing on her lived experience of Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome, fibromyalgia, ADHD, and dyspraxia, Neko describes how embracing embodiment reshaped her research approach and challenged academic conventions. 🔹 Inclusive Supervision and Support The discussion highlights the importance of flexible supervision, awareness of Disability Services and DSA, and the power of compassionate academic relationships. 🔹 Community and Connection From peer networks and online neurodivergent communities to the grounding comfort of pets, Neko reflects on how connection sustains disabled researchers. 🔹 Towards an Embodied Research Culture The episode calls for academia to value lived experience as knowledge and to make space for embodied, experimental, and inclusive methodologies. Resources and support University of Leeds Disability Services  Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)“Writing pain and the non-linear body: Towards an embodied poetics” – Medical Humanities (Mellor, 2023)Disabled Academic CollectiveThe body keeps the score - Bessel Van Der Kolk Connect with our guest Dr Neko Mellor🔗LinkedIn Read Neko’s articlein Medical...

    26 min

  2. 29 OCT

    (Episode 135) Rethinking Research: Building Collaborative Environments

    In this episode of the 'Research Culture Uncovered' podcast, Emma Spary, Associate Director for Researcher Development and Research Culture at the University of Leeds, is joined by guests Nik Ogryzko, from UKRI's Central Talent Team, and Kelly Vere, Director of Technical Strategy at the University of Nottingham. The discussion explores the need for a shift from a culture that's merely nice to one that's collaborative and structurally supportive. They include the importance of recognising contributions from all team members, including technicians, research administrators, and digital experts, to foster better research outcomes.  Key highlights: The shortcomings of the current PI-centric model in research, suggesting a more integrated and systemic approach that values diverse roles and reduces bureaucratic burdens. Examples from institutions like Warwick, Bath, Exeter, and UCL, which have restructured their research operations to enhance efficiency and support. A team-centred approach from the outset, valuing diverse expertise and collaborative roles, is essential for a thriving research culture.A call to rethink research evaluation measures beyond publications, considering broader impacts like career sustainability, data quality, and team development.Nik introduces us to the concept of the Unicorn Postdoc that can do everything. In this episode several initiatives and outputs are referenced: Technician Commitment: A national initiative to support technical staff in higher education and research.UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy: A body focused on advancing technical skills and career pathways.Hidden REF: An initiative to recognise overlooked research outputs and contributions.Previous episode with the Hidden Ref: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/e6d0253f-fb10-4462-888f-45bff8f46ff8/ All 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 a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthwinden/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    28 min

  3. 22 OCT

    (Episode 134) Lab Coats and Lunch Boxes: Navigating a Research Career and Motherhood

    Research Culture Uncovered: Navigating Career and Parenthood as a Scientist Host Ruth Winden (Careers with Research Consultant) and guest Dr. Hema Viswambharan (Senior Scientist, LICAMM, University of Leeds) “Building a career after a break is like a marathon and not a sprint.” (Dr. Hema Viswambharan) Episode Overview: In this highly personal episode, Ruth Winden speaks with Dr. Hema Viswambharan about the realities of juggling a research career with parenthood. Drawing on her 20 years of experience as both a scientist and a mother, Hema shares her lived experiences, highlighting personal and professional challenges, effective coping strategies, and the value of support networks. Key Discussion Points: Inspiration and Early Career: Hema describes her journey into science, inspired by her parents, especially her mother, “a female scientist in her own respect.” The Impact of Parenthood on Career: Hema chose to “stay as a research fellow,” bringing up three children while maintaining her career, supported by her line manager. Challenges Faced: Professional isolation and loss of networking opportunities during career breaks and especially when during her return to work after maternity leave, re-engaging with her career and staying up to date with rapid scientific advancements during her absence.Balancing lab work, research and professional development with the needs of her family and her own needs. Solutions and Support Mechanisms Hema sought out and/or created: Engaging in Professional Development to continuously upskill herself.Finding time for personal development programs at the University of Leeds, including workshops, online courses, and seminars.Integrating learning into her daily routine.Proactive communication with her line manager was key to receiving necessary support.Annual staff reviews and regular updates ensured alignment between personal and professional needs.Mentoring and coaching provided “empathetic guidance” for overcoming career progression stalls after breaks.Establishing routines and self-reflection helped manage practical and emotional challenges.Building a strong support network of colleagues and mentors proved invaluable. Her advice: “Be patient and kind to yourself… seek out and take advantage of personal development opportunities and network support.” Contact/Resources: Dr Hema Viswambharan on LinkedIn and her University profileRuth Winden on LinkedIn and BlueSkyUniversity of Leeds OD&PL professional development programs for research staffThe British Heart Foundation All of our episodes can be accessed via the following playlists:  a href="https://player.captivate.fm/collection/60d10ee0-197a-4648-a3ea-55458f799776" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    32 min

  4. 15 OCT

    (Episode 133) Promoting Open Knowledge at the University of Leeds with Lucy Hinnie and Richard Nevell

    University of Leeds Libraries is proud to partner with Wikimedia UK to promote open knowledge across campus and beyond. Wikimedia UK is the national chapter of the global Wikimedia movement and in this episode Nick is joined by Dr. Lucy Hinnie and Dr. Richard Nevell to explore the role of Wikimedians in Residence, particularly at universities. Lucy and Richard discuss the importance of Wikipedia in promoting knowledge transparency and share their experiences working with Wikimedia UK, highlighting different projects aimed at leveraging Wikipedia for educational and research purposes. Key topics include the integration of Wikimedia into academic settings, the impact of open knowledge on public engagement, and the challenges posed by AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT. Key takeaways include: 🔹 The role of a Wikimedian in Residence 🔹 The benefits of engaging with the Wikimedia platforms in Higher Education 🔹 The importance of human curated knowledge in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Links: Promoting engagement in universities (Poulter & Sheppard, 2020)Wikimedia Residency at the University of LeedsThe British Library Wikimedia ResidencyNew partnership delivers Wikimedia UK’s first-ever residency for climateGetting the Words Out (and Back In): What to do When a Plague Image is Not an Image of Plague "Wikipedia has a chance to be a free, universally recognized, and comprehensive counterpoint to slop, at a time when that is badly needed" Ted McCormick (BluesKy post)Knowledge Equity NetworkConflict of interest in the academyUniversity of Edinburgh and Wikimedia UK’s booklet of case studies of Wikimedia in Education (2nd edition) If you or your organisation are interested in collaborating with Wikimedia UK, perhaps to recruit a Wikimedian in Residence, get in touch with Richard and the team at programs@wikimedia.org.uk. Related episodes: a...

    56 min

  5. 1 OCT

    (Episode 132) Sparking Impact: The People, Values, and Vibe of the UK Knowledge Mobilisation Forum with Dr Vicky Ward

    In this episode ‘Sparking Impact: The People, Values, and Vibe of the UK Knowledge Mobilisation Forum with Dr Vicky Ward’ Ged Hall talks to Dr. Vicky Ward (Reader in Management at the University of St. Andrews) about the UK Knowledge Mobilisation Forum and her period as its Chair. They discuss the unique world of knowledge mobilisation and what makes the UK Knowledge Mobilisation Forum so special, including its aims and format. The key takeaways from the discussion are: 🔹 Discover Vicky’s fascinating journey from music PhD to leading knowledge mobilisation in the UK. 🔹 Learn the origins and evolution of the UK Knowledge Mobilisation Forum, and how it’s built a vibrant, supportive community. 🔹 Explore what makes the Forum different from traditional conferences: interactive workshops, knowledge fayres, and a focus on collaboration over presentations. 🔹 Hear about the Forum’s core values—sustainability, inclusivity, and creating a safe, energising space for practitioners and researchers. If you’re passionate about making research matter and building connections across sectors, the UK Knowledge Mobilisation Forum is for you. To follow, connect and attend the Forum, check out the following: The Forum’s LinkedIn page (UK Knowledge Mobilisation Forum)The Forum’s website (https://knowledgemobilisation.net/), where you can also check out who is on the Forum committee.The email address to be added to the distribution list: ukkmbforum@gmail.com To connect with Vicky, take a look at her LinkedIn profile and her University profile page Vicky's paper that influenced Ged's early research impact workshops is Ward, V., Foy, R., House, A., Smith, S., & Hamer, S. (2010). Planning for knowledge translation: a researcher’s guide. Evidence & Policy, 6(4), 527-541. Retrieved Sep 19, 2025, from https://doi.org/10.1332/174426410X535882 She also produced a technical report with other colleagues, called "Knowledge Brokering. Exploring the process of transferring knowledge into action", that had some great visuals in it that was also extremely valuable (thanks Vicky!). Related episodes: (S9/E4) Scottish Policy Research Exchange: Empowering Equitable Decision-Making: a discussion with Catherine-Rose Stocks-Rankin and Dave Blackbell, who are SPRE's Co-Directors. Catherine-Rose (or CR) will be co-chairing the UK Knowledge Mobilisation Forum in 2026.(Episode 126) Research Impact Heroes: Dr Julie Bayley on Finding Your People All of our episodes can be accessed via the following...

    47 min

  6. 24 SEPT

    (Episode 131) The Art of Failing Well, with Ireen Litvak-Zur

    It's time to talk about failure again! In this episode, Taryn Bell chats with Ireen Litvak-Zur, Senior Consultant at Advance HE. Ireen discusses her experiences of failure both in and out of academia, and shares her thoughts on how to fail well. Key takeaways: "Failure now is a step in a process, rather than an outcome": there's still an ingrained stigma against failure in academia, but Ireen's own views on failure changed dramatically after she left academiaHow we deal with failure can make those failures worse: The easy fix for failure is to put more pressure on yourself - but this has hugely negative impacts on academics in the long runThe importance of both self-compassion and a growth mindset: When we stop punishing ourselves for our failures, we're more able to learn from them To listen back to our previous episodes on failure, check out the links below: Navigating Failure in AcademiaHow to Handle Professional FailureFrom setback to success: supporting researchers after unsuccessful funding applications You can learn more about Ireen using the link below: Ireen Litvak-Zur All 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 HallOpen Research with Nick Sheppard (follow Nick on Bluesky and LinkedIn)Research Careers with Ruth Winden (follow Ruth on Bluesky and LinkedIn)Research talent managementMeet the Research Culturositists with Emma Spary (follow Emma on Bluesky and LinkedIn)a...

    23 min

  7. 17 SEPT

    (Episode 130): Postdocs Leading Research Culture Change at the University of Leeds - what have we learnt?

    What started as a bold idea has made a real, lasting impact on supporting Early Career Researchers (ECRs) at the University of Leeds.  A team of exceptional postdocs, Jessica Swanson, Laurin McDowall and James Warren led a collaborative project that tackled some of the biggest challenges ECRs face: fragmented information on professional development, the need for greater awareness of opportunities, a route to gain formal project management qualifications and/or become chartered.   With professional services staff Taryn Bell, Anisha (Parsotam) O'Hagan, Nazia Nasir and Ruth Winden supporting (not leading!) and generous Research England funding, they   📌 created a central digital ECR Hub,   📌 ran a packed fellowship fair,   📌 enabled over 35 postdocs to go through the Prince2 project management certification,   📌 and helped a sizeable group of researchers on their way to become Chartered Scientists.   Key learnings of this 9-month project:   1⃣ When postdocs are empowered to lead, innovation follows. “Listen to the postdocs—they know the challenges they face.”   2⃣ Cross-team collaboration (professional services and postdocs) unlocks impressive results.  3⃣ Building strong professional relationships and networks accelerates positive change.   4⃣ Recognition matters: the three postdocs earned the FBS Partnership Award for its cultural impact.   If you are interested in how this project got started - listen to this episode from September 2024 (Season 9/Episode 3): https://research-culture.captivate.fm/episode/-postdocs-as-innovators-shaping-research-culture-at-the-university-of-leeds/ All 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 HallOpen Research with Nick Sheppard (follow Nick on Bluesky and LinkedIn)Research Careers with Ruth Winden (follow Ruth on Bluesky and a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthwinden/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    34 min

  8. 10 SEPT

    (Episode 129) UKRN Train the Trainer: accelerating the uptake of open research practices across academic disciplines

    This week Nick speaks with his Library colleague Kikachukwu Oluonye about the UKRN Train the Trainer programme. Like Nick, Kikachukwu is an Open Research Adviser based in the Library and also has a role with the UK Reproducibility Network (UKRN) as Open Research Coordinators and Administrator (ORCA). As a member institution of UKRN, Kikachukwu would like to invite University of Leeds colleagues to apply to be part of the second cohort of the UKRN Train the Trainer programme. You'll need to be quick though as the deadline is next week, 17th September. We also hear from Dr Scott Mclaughlin, Associate Professor in Composition and Music Technology based in the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures. Scott was a member of the first cohort last year and talks about open research from the perspective of Arts and Humanities, and as a practice researcher. Episode highlights: UKRN Train the Trainer Programme Overview: The University of Leeds joined the UK Reproducibility Network (UKRN) consortium in February 2024, participating in the Train the Trainer programme designed to create Open Research Training leads. The programme is open to professional services staff, researchers, research fellows, and PIs with free courses running from September through December. Cross-disciplinary Challenges in Open Research: The conversation reveals how open research practices vary significantly across, even within, disciplines While traditional reproducibility concepts from psychology and other empirical disciplines don't directly translate to arts and humanities, there are valuable opportunities for interdisciplinary dialogue and adaptation of open research principles. Practice Research and Open Scholarship: Dr. McLaughlin's work in experimental music composition demonstrates how practice-based research in the arts faces unique challenges around copyright, and making creative processes transparent while maintaining artistic integrity and commercial viability. Institutional Support and Recognition: Programme participants receive certificates upon completion and the title of Open Research Training leads, with the initiative supported by Research England funding and led locally by Professor Daryl O'Connor as institutional lead. Future Developments: The discussion touches on upcoming initiatives including the Enact project, led by the University of Westminster, to develop a national digital repository for practice research, and ongoing work to adapt open research principles across the diverse research landscape of Arts and Humanities at Leeds and beyond. Episode links: Igbo WikipediaThe UK Reproducibility Network (UKRN)PRAG-UKMcLaughlin,...

    30 min
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About

At the University of Leeds, we believe that all members of our research community play a crucial role in developing and promoting a positive and inclusive research culture. Across the globe, the urgent need for a better Research Culture in Higher Education is widely accepted – but how do you make it happen? This weekly podcast focuses on our ideas, approaches and learning as we contribute to the University's attempt to create a Research Culture in which everyone can thrive. Whether you undertake, lead, fund or benefit from research - these are the conversations to listen to if you want to explore what a positive Research Culture is and why it matters. Unless specified in the episode shownotes, Research Culture Uncovered © 2023 by Research Culturosity, University of Leeds is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. This license requires that reusers give credit to the creator. If you remix, adapt, or build upon the material, you must license the modified material under identical terms. Some episodes may be licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0, please check before use.

Information

  • Creator
    Research Culturosity, University of Leeds
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    135
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    Unless specified in shownotes, Research Culture Uncovered © 2023 by Research Culturosity, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Reusers must give credit to the creator. If you remix, adapt, or build upon the material, you must license under identical terms.
  • Show Website
    Research Culture Uncovered

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