Phil Taylor and I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Department of Chemistry, hosted by Professors Matthew Jones and Petra Cameron. The visit offered a compelling snapshot of how innovation, education and impact are being brought together in practice—and the results are tangible.
The visit centred on a presentation exploring innovation with impact, with short, focused contributions from colleagues across the Department. These showcased a strong and growing portfolio of impact case studies currently in development, underpinned by excellent research and meaningful external engagement. It was particularly encouraging to see how deliberately these activities are being shaped with future REF and translational outcomes in mind.
We also heard how Chemistry is seeing a successful upturn in undergraduate acceptances, supported by the Faculty’s Centre of Excellence in Science Education, co-led by Professor Gan Shermer. The alignment between pedagogic innovation, student experience and recruitment strategy was clear, and the commitment to evidence-led change is already making a real difference.
During a subsequent tour of the Department, we saw first-hand how Professor Jones has implemented a series of health and safety improvements, responding proactively to earlier recommendations and embedding good practice throughout the working environment. We also spent time speaking with early career researchers, hearing about their work, their ambitions and the support structures that enable them to thrive at this stage of their careers.
Overall, the visit was an excellent example of a Department taking a holistic approach: connecting research excellence, education, impact, culture and operational discipline in a way that is both coherent and authentic.
Call to action
- Heads of Department who would welcome a similar visit in the coming weeks, focused on innovation, are warmly encouraged to get in touch.
- Colleagues who would like to hear more about the Innovation & Enterprise Strategic Plan, and how it can support departmental priorities, are also invited to express interest.
Please contact me directly if you would like to explore either opportunity.
Jon Hunt
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