Abstract

Universities are increasingly called upon to proactively tackle wicked challenges such as mitigating and adapting to climate change, reducing geopolitical tensions, and building healthy communities. Mission-oriented research and innovation approaches are increasingly being explored as a model to address wicked challenges and coordinate across disciplines, sectors and geographies. Research missions are characterised by their bold ambition, problem-driven and solutions-oriented focus, and explicit, time-bound impact goals, undertaken through deep, sustained partnerships with non-academic stakeholders. Despite the growing interest, there is little guidance and few tools for research leaders and managers on how to catalyse and deliver complex, ambitious, mission-oriented initiatives in university settings.

This presentation introduces a novel framework for universities to steward mission-oriented research and innovation initiatives. The framework has been developed drawing on 12 case studies spanning 15 years and over $1b of research investment at Monash University, with more than 1,200 scholars and 40 academic institutions. The presentation will explore the Framework and it’s seven elements: 1: Research excellence and impact; 2: Transformational leadership; 3: External relationships and consortia; 4: Entrepreneurial spirit; 5: Institutional supports for innovation; 6: ‘Tiger teams’ to deliver; and 7: Thinking and working politically.

Drawing from lessons learned, the presentation will also explore the opportunities and constraints of university research ecosystems to catalyse, lead, and steward missions. Our aim is to support research management professionals to build capabilities and cultures for mission-oriented approaches. Drawing from empirical insights, key areas for reform include aligning academic workloads with mission activities, the evolution of organisational structures and systems to operate across disciplines and faculties, the implementation of talent development initiatives, and the adoption of more mature approaches to external partnerships. The presentation aims to contribute to ongoing conversations with research management professionals to include diverse perspectives and approaches on mission-oriented initiatives.