Research Cultures at University of Edinburgh

Research sits at the core of the University’s mission. It forms one of the four pillars in our Strategy 2030 and we undertake research to advance knowledge and change the world for the better. Our ability to deliver excellent research depends on the research cultures our staff and students are working in.

Our research cultures are influenced by our values, expectations and the behaviours that shape how we support, deliver and communicate our research. It’s our responsibility as an institution to foster cultures where those that lead, undertake and enable our research activity are encouraged, recognised and are working in a positive environment.

Support for Postgraduate Research Students

Our Doctoral College supports all postgraduate research students, supervisors and relevant staff at the university to enhance the postgraduate student experience. 

Support for Researchers

Our Research Staff Hub brings together information from across the University to support research staff to undertake their role, develop themselves and progress in their career.  

Support for Technicians

Our Support for Technicians site brings together information to ensure the visibility, recognition and career development of our technicians.

Research Professional Services Staff

Our research enabling staff are vital to our research effort and environment. We support membership of professional bodies and host dedicated events to connect and network.

Open Research

Publicly funded research should be accessible by everyone. Openness benefits society by speeding up the research process, facilitating the reuse of research outputs, and increasing transparency and public trust.

Research Ethics & Integrity

Our research ethics and integrity processes support high standards in designing, conducting and disseminating our research.

Health & Wellbeing

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Managing Your Team

Understanding your responsibilities as a manager and developing your management skills can help improve the research culture in your team. Below are links to training, tips and advice.

Research Cultures in Research Funding Bids

Research funders are increasingly asking for information on how research teams are supporting positive research environments and cultures. Below are links, tips and advice.

InFrame: Wellcome Funded Research Cultures Project

In collaboration with University of Glasgow and University of St Andrews , we have been awarded Wellcome Institutional Research Cultures funding.  Our project, InFrame, led by Glasgow started in September 2024.

Strategies, Commitments & Projects

Below are strategies, policies, memberships and commitments that are contributing to improving our research cultures.

University of Edinburgh is a signatory of and committed to

We are a member of

We are involved in these Research Cultures projects 

We're all responsible for our Research Cultures

This article was published on