Embracing the Future of Research: Collaboration, Nimbleness, and Flexibility
Explore the transformative vision for research presented by Mary Lidstrom, Vice Provost for Research, focusing on the need for collaboration, nimbleness, and flexibility in academic environments. As changing demographics and emerging societal problems arise, Lidstrom emphasizes the importance of working together and forming new partnerships across disciplines and institutions. Identifying core values allows for tailored responses, enabling quick adaptation to trends and removing barriers. This approach not only fosters innovation but also supports institutional goals through shared resources and collective efforts.
Embracing the Future of Research: Collaboration, Nimbleness, and Flexibility
E N D
Presentation Transcript
The Research Future: Discovery Mary Lidstrom Vice Provost for Research
Background • Change is upon us • Get ahead of the curve • Think “how can this be done,” not “no” • Do the right thing, then work out the resources • 2y2d Focus group identified themes: • Collaboration • Nimbleness • Flexibility
Collaboration: work together • Sharing credit and resources • New kinds of partnerships • Between faculty • Between universities • Public/private/government consortia • Blurred lines between departments • Closest disciplinary colleagues in a different department • Cluster hires • Partner with other departments in joint hires, shared resources
Nimbleness: respond quickly • Anticipate trends • Look ahead, follow national trends • --Changing demographics • --Emerging societal problems • Prepare response scenarios in advance • Change policies and procedures • Remove barriers to rapid response • Set up systems for rapid input • Network • Relationships build in nimbleness
Flexibility: one size does not fit all • Understand core values and goals • Identify, then stick to them • Ask: “If I do this, will it help support our core goals?” • Consider compromise • Parallel tracks • Give up ownership • Share and leverage; may give up personal service • Win-win situations • Don’t let tradition box you in