Mapping the future: Understanding the needs of dRTPs across core research facilities

Many dRTPs already demonstrate strong leadership in their daily work, supporting research projects, teams, and the wider research environment. However, their contributions are often overlooked or undervalued.

This project aims to highlight and build on dRTPs existing strengths. Through a participatory approach this project will explore how dRTPs lead, collaborate, and influence research, while identifying ways institutions can better recognise and support their work.

By linking these insights to the development of locally launched leadership programmes to run alongside existing academic development initiatives, the project ensures that technical research professionals receive development opportunities comparable to those available to researchers in traditional academic roles.

The project will inform new career pathways that embed recognition of technical expertise, leadership, and innovation within formal progression structures. Ultimately, it seeks to demonstrate how a more inclusive and sustainable research culture can be fostered—one in which the leadership, expertise, and contributions of technical research professionals are acknowledged, nurtured, and leveraged to support high-quality research.