Emerging Research Leaders Programme

ERLP Public Engagement and Research Impact cohort at The Burn, January 2026

Led by Dr Emilka Skrzypek, the Emerging Research Leaders Programme (ERLP) is a skills development initiative for early career researchers (ECRs). 

From 28-30 January 2026, twenty-four ECRs from eight Scottish universities gathered at The Burn, representing a rich mix of academic disciplines across humanities, social, natural and physical sciences.  

Building on the success of our first two workshops, covering Policy Engagement and Media Engagement, this year’s ERLP workshop explored Public Engagement and Research Impact. We were delighted to welcome Dr Rees Hughes, University of St Andrews’ Head of Research Impact, and Dr Kirsty Ross, a freelance public engagement consultant, who brought fresh perspectives, practical insights, and years of hands-on experience to workshop discussions. 

The workshop was designed to strengthen participants’ skills, knowledge, and confidence in engaging with audiences outside of academia. Ahead of the event, the group shared some challenges they had met in their public-facing work so far. Common themes included communication barriers, particularly around translating and communicating scientific information in an accessible way, as well as limited resources and opportunities for hands-on experience. Many also highlighted the pressure of balancing engagement activities with competing research, teaching, and publication demands.   

To help participants overcome these barriers, the training focused on developing communication skills, building confidence in designing and delivering activities, and using tools such as logic modelling and stakeholder mapping to support effective relationship building. Dr Ross introduced the importance of managing digital footprints, particularly across research outputs and professional platforms such as LinkedIn, introducing key evaluation and engagement approaches. Dr Hughes explored strategies for mitigating risk and encouraged participants to look beyond initial engagement, considering how their work can create impact across areas such as policy, culture, and practice.

Reflecting on their experience, participants shared that they had developed new skills and competencies as a direct result of the workshop. Most notably, they highlighted strengthened communication and storytelling skills, improved approaches for identifying and building connections with diverse audiences, and practical strategies for de-risking engagement activities.

Another added: “The ERLP is a fantastic opportunity to meet other early career researchers from diverse backgrounds with a common passion for making strides towards a more just and inclusive future. The workshops are planned and delivered to draw out strengths of individuals, connect participants and demonstrate research practices spanning across disciplines. The location and venue add to the experience, which fells enriching, grounding, while building confidence and thoughtful reflection on individual research aspirations.” 

Following the workshop, SRAEHL will be launching a seed fund of two £1,000 Public Engagement and Impact grants which will be awarded on competitive basis to two participants from this year’s cohort. These small grants are designed to help early career researchers put their new skills into practice, supporting creative, ambitious engagement activities that extend the reach and influence of their research.

Looking ahead, the Emerging Research Leaders Programme will return in January 2027 with our fourth residential workshop. We look forward to welcoming both returning and new researchers, continuing to build a supportive community, and strengthening Scotland’s cross‑sector research landscape. 

Learn more about our Emerging Research Leaders Programme here.