Foundations in Responsible Innovation for post graduate researchers
Workforce training & enablement
Designed and delivered a practical responsible innovation training programme for first-year doctoral researchers. The workshop helps researchers understand the wider implications of research and technology, apply responsible innovation frameworks in practice, and develop leadership and communication skills relevant both within and beyond academia.
The Challenge
Responsible innovation is a training requirement within EPSRC-funded Centres for Doctoral Training. Existing training was often theoretical and insufficiently tailored to researchers working in science, engineering, and technology-focused disciplines. Clients sought a more practical approach that would help researchers apply responsible innovation principles in their everyday work while also developing professional skills relevant beyond academia.
The Approach
Designed and delivered a tailored workshop centred around the responsible innovation AREA framework and its practical applications to enhance research both within and beyond academia.
The workshop introduces the fundamentals of responsible innovation and helps participants understand how these principles can inform their decision-making, professional practice, and leadership as researchers and future science and engineering professionals.
Workshop Highlights
Introduction to the AREA Framework and responsible innovation principles
Application of responsible innovation to real-world research practice
Understanding of innovation governance and unintended consequences
Development of communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Leadership development for researchers and technical professionals
The Outcome
This workshop has already supported hundreds of researchers in developing the professional judgement and decision-making capabilities needed for research, innovation, and future leadership roles both within and beyond academia.
Key deliverables:
Clearer understanding of the relationships between responsible innovation, research culture, and innovation governance.
Enhanced peer learning through discussion of the wider implications of research and technology.
Increased awareness of and confidence in applying responsible innovation principles.
Strengthened professional judgement and decision-making capabilities in the context of research and innovation.
Participant feedback consistently highlights the workshop's practical, engaging, and discussion-based approach. Here are some quotes:
“The training had a positive effect and the way it’s conducted helps understanding”
“It was very engaging to work together and have open discussion about the topics and to hear different opinions”
“I think it was a good balance between active exercises and presentation. It was interesting and kept me engaged.”