We’re excited to announce the return of Research Culture Month this June 2025 at the University of Bath—a month-long programme dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive research environment. Through a series of events and initiatives, we’ll explore and celebrate our shared commitment to integrity, transparency, and fairness in research practices.
This year’s programme is shaped by the University’s Research Culture Action Plan and the six core pillars of Collegiality, Career Development, Recognition, Research Design, Open Research and Research Ethics and Integrity. With activities planned for every week of June, please join us to:
- connect with colleagues across disciplines and job families
- learn about new guidelines, practices and communities shaping the future of research at Bath
- celebrate those contributing to a more supportive and sustainable research culture
Research Culture Month begins with launch of The Researcher Academy, designed to support researchers to develop their research and leadership skills, whatever their chosen career path.
In June we’ll also be introducing new Guidelines for Authorship and Acknowledgement in Outputs to improve integrity and recognition for research outputs. Alongside this, we’ll share outcomes from our review of research assessment practices – a significant step towards recognising a broader range of contributions to research, and ensuring these are meaningfully reflected in promotions, recruitment and other assessment processes. Later in the month, don’t miss the launch of our #TechTeamBath campaign (week commencing 23 June) spotlighting the essential work of our technical staff and their critical role in advancing research at Bath.
Research Culture Month also includes a special two-part series on ‘Generous Leadership in Higher Education.’ We’re honoured to welcome Kathleen Fitzpatrick, author of ‘Generous Thinking - A Radical Approach to Saving the University.' Kathleen is Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies and Professor of English at Michigan State University. We are also delighted to be joined by Professor Davide Mattia who will be chairing the event and Kate Elliott, Coaching Psychologist to discuss how empathy, authenticity, and collaboration can transform leadership in academia. This will be followed by an in-person workshop led by Kate Elliott exploring how we can embed generosity into our everyday work.
We look forward to seeing you throughout June (and early July) as we shape a better research culture – together.
Research Culture Month Events
Official Launch of the Researcher Academy
The formal launch of the Researcher Academy, expanding our career and professional development offerings for research staff and academic researchers at all stages of their career. A milestone moment in the University's ongoing commitment to developing a supportive and empowering research culture.
Monday 2 June, 12:15–2:00pm.
Find out more.Doctoral Research Celebration Evening at Komedia, Bath city centre
An evening to honour the achievements and contributions of our doctoral community and open to doctoral students, supervisors, and staff supporting doctoral research.
Wednesday 11 June, 5:45pm–late
To attend, please complete the Expression of Interest Form(Places offered first-come, first-served). Confirmed attendees will receive a follow-up form to confirm attendance and provide dietary/access requirements.Doctoral Festival of ideas
Open to all students, staff, and members of the public, this two-day festival showcases the creativity, insight, and impact of doctoral research at Bath.
Tuesday 17 and Wednesday 18 June
More information and booking information on the Doctoral Festival of Ideas webpage.Research Culture Action Plan – Progress and Next Steps
Join Professor Sarah Hainsworth, Professor Julie Barnett and members of the Research Culture Team for this webinar to hear progress updates and next steps on the University’s Research Culture Action Plan, including exciting new initiatives and opportunities to get involved.
Tuesday 17 June from 11.30 - 12.30pm
Find out more and register.Engineering and Design Research Culture Awards
The Faculty of Engineering and Design hosts the Research Culture Awards. This event, now in its second year, recognises the important contributions of staff and PhD students to our research community.
Wednesday 18 JuneAddressing equity and disparity through support for open research
Join Cath Borwick and Sarah Ormes from The University of Bath Library for an interactive workshop that sparks conversation and reflection on the challenges of inequity in open research. Together, we’ll explore how both institutional initiatives and individual actions can break down barriers and create a more inclusive research culture.
Thursday 19 June, 2.00-3.00pm
Find out more and register.Guidelines for Authorship and Acknowledgement – What do the new guidelines mean for you?
Join Professor Julie Barnett and the Research Culture Team to discover how new guidelines for authorship and acknowledgement promote fair credit in research and learn how to apply them through an interactive workshop.
Monday 23 June 2025, 1.00–2.00pm
Find out more and registerThe Vice-Chancellor’s Engage Awards and Showcase 2025
Celebrate public engagement in research at this showcase and awards ceremony. Explore shortlisted projects, connect with engaged researchers across disciplines, and view the 2025 Images of Research exhibition.
Wednesday 25 June, 11am – 1.00pm
Find out more and register.Picnic for technical staff
As part of the #TechTeamBath campaign week, we're celebrating the incredible contributions of our technicians and staff in technical roles with a free on-campus picnic! Join us outside on campus for good food, great company, and a chance to connect and unwind with colleagues.
Thursday 26 June, 12.00 noon - 3.00pm
More details coming soon.Generosity & Leadership in Higher Education
Panel Webinar: Generosity and Leadership in Higher Education
In a competitive research environment, generous leadership can transform academic culture. Join our panel of international experts to explore how empathy, authenticity, and collaboration can create a more inclusive and impactful sector. The event will be chaired by Professor Davide Mattia, Department of Chemical Engineering. This is the first event in our two-part series on Generous Leadership.
25 June 3:00 – 4:00pm
Find out more and register.Workshop: Practicing Generous Leadership: ideas for authentic and empathetic leadership
A hands-on session, facilitated by Kate Elliott, Coaching Psychologist and OD Consultant and focused on authenticity, empathy, and adaptability in leadership. Leave with new ideas to embed generous leadership in your work. This is the second event in our two-part series on Generous Leadership.
2.00pm – 3.30pm Tuesday 8 July
More information and to register.Sustainable Labs Conference Now returning as an annual event. We warmly welcome you to help us promote and embed sustainability in university lab and workshop environments. Our Sustainable Labs Conference on campus is suitable for all lab users, including academic staff, technicians, postgraduate researchers. You should expect a filled programme of workshops, talks, and networking opportunities, all focused on practical ways to reduce the environmental impact of lab-and workshop-based research and teaching. 9am to 2.30pm Wednesday 9 July (lunch and refreshments will be provided) Location: 4W 1.2 (in-person only) More information and to register