Research Box - Evolving Dynamics and Coaching

Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss the evolving dynamics in the field of research and the concept of the ‘Research Box’. Annette shares her insights on the changing academic landscape, emphasising that it presents an opportunity rather than a restriction. They also discuss the importance of both technical and professional skills for researchers, including team collaboration, communication with interdisciplinary groups, securing research grants, and networking. Annette shares her academic journey that began a little while ago! Her passion for inquiry led her to pursue a Ph.D. Despite initial struggles with no data in her second year. She eventually became a research scientist before shifting her focus to Professional Development. Annette's interest in coaching led her to become the chair and CEO of the Professional Development Foundation. She now works with students and professionals to help them learn and develop in the most suitable format for them. The discussion emphasises the need for researchers to adapt to the changing research environment and encouraged them to explore available resources. She highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research teams, including academics, communicators, and commercial companies, to address complex societal issues. The discussion concludes with the agreement on the necessity for research to be open, transparent, and accessible to everyone. Annette also stresses the significance of research integrity, transparency, and open science, as well as the role of research ethics. Lastly, they touch on the topic of coaching and its role in connecting different areas of research and research subjects. They are both passionate coaches and discuss the nature of coaching, specifically in the context of academic research. Annette emphasizes the importance of a coach's role in providing a fresh perspective and creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment for exploration and learning. She also highlights the value of joint publications and the importance of establishing a positive relationship between coach and student. The discussion ended with Annette sharing the website of her new initiative, aftassociates.co.uk which aims to provide support for qualitative research.