...Abstract This interview with Vanessa Boarati explores the integration of diversity considerations into research management in Brazil. Drawing on her background in economics and experience as a research manager, Boarati emphasises the importance of fostering inclusive practices across dimensions...

...Abstract This interview with Jaylene Wehipeihana explores the role of research management in advancing diversity within the context of Aotearoa New Zealand. Grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Wehipeihana underscores the structural obligation to ensure Māori benefit from research...

...Abstract In this interview, Mariam Aisha Fatima, Director of DSAK Global Pte. Ltd. (Malaysia), reflects on her journey into research management and the role of diversity in academic and professional contexts. Drawing on formative experiences in the United Kingdom, Fatima highlights how exposure...

...Abstract This interview with Dembo Kanteh, Head of Strategic Partnerships at MRC Unit The Gambia and the President of the West Africa Research and Innovation Management Association (WARIMA), examines the evolving role of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within research management in West...

...Abstract This interview with Dr. Anita Sharma, Director of Research Services at Thompson Rivers University, explores her professional trajectory from biochemistry researcher to research manager with a strong commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). Sharma reflects on her lived...

...Abstract The introduction positions diversity as a fundamental condition for research excellence and as a core competence for research managers and administrators. Rather than treating diversity as a compliance requirement or an add-on to institutional strategies, the chapter frames it as a skill...

...Abstract This chapter establishes a practical foundation for working with diversity in research management. It begins by clarifying core terms – diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, intersectionality and diversity literacy – arguing that clear, shared definitions are not an academic exercise...

...Abstract This chapter examines the multifaceted role of data in diversity work within research management, highlighting its potential to both empower and harm. It challenges the common assumption that more data are always necessary, showing how this stance often delays meaningful action...

...Abstract This chapter examines the role of strategic leadership in integrating diversity into research management. It argues that leadership in diversity is not defined by formal titles but by authentic actions grounded in values such as courage, humility and vulnerability. Drawing on thinkers...

... recruitment and retention intersectionality research management Introduction Many research managers have the fortune of being part of a research support office (RSO) and having colleagues around them. The RSO can be at different levels of the organisation, small or big and focus on part of the process (fx...

...Abstract This chapter explores the multiple roles research managers and administrators (RMAs) play in embedding diversity and inclusion across the research lifecycle. It highlights how responsibilities differ between strategy and lobbying, pre-award, post-award, open science and the emerging use...

...Abstract This chapter outlines practical approaches for translating diversity strategies into effective action within research management. It introduces a staged model of implementation (prepare, design, engage, execute and sustain), highlighting the need for both careful planning and iterative...

...Abstract This chapter examines the role of monitoring and evaluation as essential instruments for embedding diversity in research management. It argues that indicators and metrics should be designed to support meaningful cultural change rather than serve as superficial compliance measures...

...Abstract This chapter examines the barriers and resistance that research managers encounter when advancing diversity in research environments and provides strategies for addressing them. Resistance is framed not as an exception but as an inherent feature of organisational and cultural change...

...-sensitive data, requiring research managers to adopt solutions such as anonymisation, self-identification surveys and privacy-by-design approaches. Anti-discrimination laws establish minimum standards for equal treatment and protection from harassment, yet what counts as ‘protected’ varies significantly...

...Abstract This forward-looking chapter examines how research management and diversity leadership may evolve in response to accelerating political, technological and cultural change. Using a deliberately Eurocentric lens but drawing global parallels, it identifies six interconnected forces shaping...

...Abstract The conclusion synthesises the book’s central arguments, emphasising that diversity literacy is not an optional skill but a core competence for research managers. Diversity leadership is framed as both a professional responsibility and a moral imperative, essential for fostering...

...Abstract The case of Africa is important in understanding the growth of research management as a profession. Africa has rapidly increased its research output in recent years, and its institutions are increasingly in demand as research partners. Yet research management structures have developed...

... to research and researchers, mainly in the higher education sector but increasingly in government agencies as well. Through the local professional society (the Australasian Research Management Society or ARMS), RMAs are collaborating with other professional support elements of the research ecosystem...

...Abstract Based on a review of professional staff (PS), which includes research managers and administrators, in 54 academic publications, I propose a novel definition for this category of staff: ‘degree holding university employees who are primarily responsible for developing, maintaining...