This research explores the instrumental, capacity-building, and conceptual outcomes of these partnerships, focusing on how they can be achieved through effective infrastructure and governance arrangements. It identifies the collaborative processes, activities, and expertise required to facilitate impactful partnerships. By doing so, the project aims to establish a comprehensive framework to guide institutions in fostering sustainable, results-oriented collaborations.
Key deliverables include:
- Principles for Place-Based Research Partnerships: Establishing best practices to guide institutions in forming and maintaining successful partnerships.
- Practical Models: Showcasing examples of effective collaborations to inspire and inform stakeholders.
- Maturity Framework: Assessing institutional readiness and offering tools to develop capacity for impactful research partnerships.
- Toolbox of Resources: Providing Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) with materials to support professional development and institutional growth.
The project employs a phased approach to achieve these goals. Initially, it involves sourcing and reviewing literature, followed by collaborative workshops with Local Policy Innovation Partnerships (LPIPs) to refine principles and outcomes. Over the medium term, further workshops will focus on identifying key factors underpinning partnership success and co-developing resources to support stakeholders. Ultimately, the project aspires to publish a “place-based collaborative advantage” framework, offering actionable insights for HEIs across the UK.
By addressing challenges such as inconsistent infrastructure and skills gaps, the research aims to empower HEIs and their partners to overcome barriers to effective collaboration. This aligns with broader strategic goals of fostering equity, inclusion, and long-term sustainability in research partnerships.
The team
This research theme is led by an expert team of professionals dedicated to advancing place-based research collaborations:
- Liz Goodyear: A strategic leader with a wealth of experience in research partnerships and knowledge exchange. Liz is committed to fostering impactful collaborations between HEIs and their place-based research partners.
- Paul Manners: With a strong background in public engagement, Paul plays a pivotal role in designing frameworks and guiding governance structures for sustainable partnerships.
- Vicky Ward: An expert in knowledge mobilisation, Vicky brings insights into aligning academic expertise with the needs of our partners, ensuring outcomes are both practical and impactful.
Together, the team combines expertise in research management, governance, and stakeholder engagement to deliver a comprehensive approach to professional standards for place-based partnerships. Their collective vision is to enhance institutional capacity, build trust with communities, and drive meaningful impact in regions across the UK.
