Research Manifesto
Defining your own research practice
2 hours, online or in person
Research careers are often shaped by powerful academic narratives or ‘myths’ about what a “successful” researcher should look like, how research should be conducted and what kinds of working practices or career paths are valued. Over time, many researchers can internalise these expectations in ways that contribute to anxiety, self-doubt, overwhelm or a sense of disconnection from their own research and professional priorities.
This workshop invites participants to critically examine common academic myths, narratives and expectations that shape research culture and individual experiences of research. Through guided reflection and discussion, participants will explore how these narratives shape their thinking, expectations and decision-making.
Participants will then be guided to identify their own core values, priorities and desired ways of working, and to consider how these can build and sustain a more intentional and meaningful research practice. Participants will leave with greater clarity around the assumptions they wish to challenge, alongside a personalised “research manifesto” that reflects the kind of researcher and research life they want to cultivate.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the session, participants will have learned:
- how to recognise common academic myths, narratives and expectations that shape research culture
- how these narratives can influence confidence, motivation, working practices and decision-making
- how to clearly identify tensions between internalised academic “shoulds” and their own values, priorities and needs
- how to develop a personalised framework for conducting research and making career decisions with greater clarity and agency