The Happy Talks Initiative: Empowering Change in Research Management
The ECDI Thematic Group is dedicated to fostering an inclusive Research Management and Administration (RMA) community by addressing key topics such as gender equality, leadership diversity, mental health, workplace well-being, and cultural understanding and inclusiveness.
A flagship initiative, Happy Talks, offers quarterly online sessions featuring short presentations and interactive discussions. Each session aims to provide a supportive space for reflection and community building. Topics are diverse and may include collaborations with other EARMA groups to promote interdisciplinary learning.
Through these initiatives, the ECDI group is driving lasting change toward a more equitable, diverse, and resilient RMA profession.
Join us on January 29, 2025, for a first Happy Talk with Kay Guccione
Unlocking Positive Change in Research Culture: Insights for Research Managers
3-4.30 pm CET, online
Join us for the inaugural Happy Talk with Kay Guccione on January 29, 2025, where we will explore how research managers can shape a thriving research culture that drives success. In this dynamic session, Kay will share practical strategies for fostering inclusive, collaborative, and resilient teams.
Drawing on the University of Glasgow’s People Make Research initiative, Kay will showcase how research leaders can set the tone for a supportive environment, unlock opportunities, and bridge gaps between teams and resources. Learn how this initiative is transforming leadership practices and enhancing research cultures across the institution.
This session offers a unique opportunity to discuss how research managers can lead cultural change, learn from real-world data, and apply these insights to their own organisations for lasting impact.
Dr. Kay Guccione
Head of Research Culture & Researcher Development, Co-Director of the Lab for Academic Culture
University of Glasgow
Dr. Kay Guccione is the Head of Research Culture & Researcher Development at the University of Glasgow and, since 2024, Co-Director of the Lab for Academic Culture. After completing a postdoctoral fellowship in Molecular Biology, Kay transitioned into Researcher Development in 2010. Over the years, she has built expertise in mentoring, research supervisor development, and fostering vibrant research communities—all centered around meaningful conversations that help shape positive research cultures.
In 2018, Kay was awarded a National Teaching Fellowship for her significant impact in these areas. Her work at the University of Glasgow continues to focus on creating supportive and inclusive research environments. Kay is also a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and a Masters-qualified Leadership Coach. She serves as a trustee on the UK Council for Graduate Education Executive Board, where she has recently contributed to the development of the Recognised Associate Supervisor Award.
Registration:
Please register your attendance via the registration form.
Link to the meeting will be sent to registered participants the latest a day before the event.