Dear colleagues,
Having been part of Public Policy|Southampton for almost a decade, I now have the privilege of leading the unit alongside a very talented and dedicated team. Over the years, I have seen first-hand the incredible difference our work makes — connecting our researchers with policymakers and helping to ensure that the evidence we generate here at Southampton shapes policy decisions that matter.
As I settle into this role, I have two clear priorities that will guide my leadership of the unit. The first is to build and deepen relationships and collaborations with policymakers at all levels. Strong, trusted partnerships between researchers and policymakers are the foundation of meaningful impact, and I am committed to expanding and strengthening the networks that allow Southampton's research to reach and influence those who make decisions that affect and improve people's lives.
My second priority is to build capacity of our University researchers and actively support their policy engagement. Every member of staff and every doctoral student at Southampton has the potential to shape policy in their field. I want to ensure that our researchers have the skills, confidence and support they need to engage effectively with policymakers — and that Public Policy|Southampton is the natural first port of call when they are ready to do so. To this end, we will continue to develop our impact capacity training, our CSaP fellowships programme, and the specialist support we offer to researchers.
This work has never been more important. The new UKRI Strategy places impact and engagement at the centre of the UK's research ambitions. The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy sets out a ten-year framework focused on innovation-led growth, and identifies universities as critical partners in delivering that vision. For universities like Southampton and Public Policy|Southampton team, this represents an opportunity to position our research at the heart of national renewal, and to ensure our expertise shapes the policies and strategies that will define the UK's future.
If you are a researcher or doctoral student curious about how your work might influence policy, or a colleague looking to understand what we do, please do get in touch. We would love to hear from you.
With warm regards,