Challenge
The Division of Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS) at the University of Oxford was awarded an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Impact Acceleration Account to provide support for activities that accelerate the impact of Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) funded research. The Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS) Division, which managed the grant, was looking to develop a strategic innovation leadership programme to provide education for early-career research (ECR) staff in mathematics, engineering and physical sciences to increase the impact of their research. They wanted to make sure that the programme was best-in-class and did not duplicate what was already being offered.
The Oracle's Solution
Oxford Oracle carried out an audit to capture all the entrepreneurship training, support and events targeted at ECRs at the University of Oxford. This audit covered all academic divisions and supporting facilities. Oxford Oracle conducted this through a mixture of desk-based research and interviews with key stakeholders. Oxford Oracle then selected and carried out horizon scanning on eight high-performing UK institutions to identify what they offered in support for ECRs. Oxford Oracle then consolidated all the information gathered to identify gaps in support offerings, advise on best practise and provide a framework for what the innovation leadership programme may look like.
Consequential Impact
The University of Oxford could use the findings and recommendations to develop a strategic innovation leadership programme that is best-in-class, provide training and support not offered elsewhere and help ECRs increase the impact of their research.