Welcome from Professor Vikas Kumar, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
Welcome to the April edition of Research Connect. This newsletter continues to be an important way for us to share the achievements, opportunities and collective progress that define our research and innovation community at Portsmouth.
This month’s edition captures the breadth of activity taking place across the University. From international recognition for our researchers and new leadership roles, to major funding successes, public engagement, research culture activity and support for colleagues at different career stages, it reflects both the quality of our work and the strength of the environment that underpins it.
What stands out to me in this edition is the sense of connection across our community. Alongside stories of individual and collective success, there are also important updates on the networks, initiatives and development opportunities that help create a more supportive, ambitious and inclusive research culture. That matters because research excellence does not happen in isolation. It depends on people feeling connected, valued and equipped to contribute.
Following my previous update, I have continued to monitor developments in the research and innovation landscape closely. Recent UKRI announcements and parliamentary scrutiny highlight several important trends for the sector, while also reinforcing areas of continuity and longer‑term stability. Ministers and UKRI continue to emphasise that core fundamental research remains protected, even as parts of the system, most notably at STFC, manage rising facility costs and make careful prioritisation decisions within largely flat budgets.
The new four‑year £38.6bn settlement provides welcome medium‑term certainty for the sector, offering a more stable planning horizon than in recent years. While this funding is clearly aligned to economic growth and national priorities, it is being complemented by continued investment across the breadth of the research base, alongside targeted commitments in areas such as quantum technologies. Some recent disruption to funding schemes has understandably caused concern, but this appears to be largely transitional: MRC calls have now reopened, and BBSRC pauses are part of a wider move towards more flexible, “always open” funding approaches, responding to earlier feedback from the community.
UKRI’s mission‑driven “bucket” model is now firmly established, structuring funding around curiosity‑led research, strategic challenge areas, and innovation, with a clearer articulation of pathways to societal and economic benefit. While this does signal a more strategic and coordinated funding environment, it also creates new opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and longer‑term programmes. Overall, the direction of travel points to a system that is evolving rather than contracting, one that will continue to support excellent research, while encouraging alignment, scale, and impact. As these changes bed in, there remains active dialogue across the sector to ensure flexibility, balance, and the long‑term health of the UK research ecosystem are sustained.
These developments will feed directly into our wider institutional strategy at the University of Portsmouth. As a university with a strong commitment to applied, interdisciplinary, and socially impactful research, we are well-positioned to align with a more strategic and mission‑driven funding environment while continuing to champion curiosity‑led excellence. We will use this evolving landscape to sharpen our focus on areas of collective strength, support collaborative approaches across disciplines, and ensure that our research ambitions remain closely connected to regional, national, and global priorities. Importantly, we will continue to advocate for balance, flexibility, and sustainability in the system, and to support our research community in navigating change with confidence and clarity.
I hope you enjoy this edition and that it gives you a strong sense of the momentum we are building together across research and innovation at Portsmouth.
Celebrating success
Dr Harold Lovell delivers invited talk for the International Glaciological Society Global Seminar Series
Dr Harold Lovell is a Senior Lecturer and glaciologist in the School of the Environment and Life Sciences. He recently delivered an invited talk on glacier surges as part of the International Glaciological Society Global Seminar Series, a weekly online seminar dedicated to research on glaciers, sea ice, permafrost and snow.
Harold’s talk presented research from a recent multi-international collaboration he led on glacier surges, published in Nature Reviews Earth & Environment. When glaciers surge, they repeatedly speed-up and advance for months to years after a much longer period of stagnation and retreat. The talk explored the characteristics of surges, the hazards caused to communities when glaciers advance, and the impact that climate change is having on this unusual glaciological behaviour. The talk is available to watch on the International Glaciological Society YouTube channel.
Exciting news from the Faculty of Science and Health
Dr Priyanka Dey, Assistant Professor in Bioanalytical Chemistry, has been awarded £713,000 to develop a pioneering 3D imaging technique that reads the unique chemical "fingerprints" of cancer cells - without the need for dyes or artificial markers.
The goal? To spot the differences between healthy and diseased cells more clearly than ever before, and ultimately help make cancer diagnosis earlier, less invasive, and more personalised for patients.
The three-year project, funded primarily through an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) New Investigator Award (NIA) scheme, begins in April 2026. It builds on Dr Dey's already impressive track record, including being named one of the world's top 20 rising stars in measurement science by the American Chemical Society in 2024.
Funding received from the British Academy
Dr Ali Selcuk Can is Senior Lecturer in Marketing in the Faculty of Business and Law. His research interests include online marketing communications, consumer–brand relationships, social media marketing, sustainability in marketing, and the applications of AI in marketing and consumer contexts.
The British Academy has recently awarded £29,446 through its International Writing Workshops 2025 scheme for Developing Regional Writing Capacity in Digital Transformation for Sustainable Tourism Development in Türkiye (DEWRCA). Dr Can is the Principal Investigator of the project, which brings together collaborators from the UK and Türkiye, with Ankara University as the partner university hosting the in-country activities. Running from March 2026 to February 2028, the two-year project supports early career researchers in Türkiye through a series of intensive workshops, structured training, and personalised mentoring. It focuses on digital transformation, sustainable development, and regional challenges, particularly in under-resourced and post-disaster regions.
Dr Alexander Gegov appointed as a Co-chair of a new NATO Research Task Group
Alexander Gegov - Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Associate Professor of Computational Intelligence in the School of Computing, Mathematics and Physics - has been appointed as a Co-chair of a new NATO Research Task Group on Explainable Artificial Intelligence in Defence and Security Context.
This group has been approved by the Information Systems Technology Scientific and Technical Committee of the Collaborative Programme of Work within the NATO Science and Technology Organisation.
The main objective of this NATO Research Task Group is to explore the potential of Explainable Artificial Intelligence for advanced support to decision makers from NATO. In particular, the group will provide detailed recommendations to NATO on how to improve its decisions making in safety critical scenarios.
Staff spotlight
Meet Dr Laura Bower and Dr Zara Martin
In this edition, we speak to two researchers whose work sits at the crossroads of care, ethics and real-world impact. From trauma-informed teaching and creative research methods to navigating the ethical complexities of working with vulnerable communities, these interviews explore what it means to do research that is deeply human.
Latest news
Policing Futures Forum
Earlier this year, the University of Portsmouth hosted a Policing Futures Forum, bringing together academics and policing professionals to explore some of the biggest challenges facing policing in the digital age. The event focused on the broad theme of Policing Vulnerability and Harm in the Digital Age and provided an opportunity for researchers and practitioners to share knowledge and shape future research priorities together.
The event formed part of the work of the University’s Policing Academic Centre of Excellence, which aims to strengthen collaboration between policing and academia and ensure that research is closely aligned with real-world policing challenges. Through a series of discussions and workshops, attendees contributed ideas that will help inform future research activity and collaboration.
The event also marked the launch of the Policing Futures Fund. We are pleased to say that the launch was very successful and generated strong interest from across the policing and academic communities. We received a number of excellent applications, which are currently being reviewed by our Advisory Group. Following this stage, applications will be considered by a panel made up of University of Portsmouth staff and representatives from the National Police Chiefs’ Council.
Applicants will be informed of the outcomes of this funding call at the end of April, with successful projects expected to begin in May. We were extremely encouraged by both the level of interest and the quality of the applications received, and we are looking forward to supporting a range of innovative projects through the fund.
Overall, the forum was a very positive event that demonstrated the value of collaboration between policing and academia and we look forward to seeing the ideas and projects developed through this initiative over the coming months.
Postgraduate researcher news
PhD student Daisy Turnbull featured in Channel 5 documentary
We are delighted to announce that PhD student Daisy Turnbull was featured in the Channel 5 documentary, ‘Mary Celeste: Solving the Mystery’.
Working with producers from Squeaky Pedal and Content Kings she was invited as an expert to help tell the story of the famous ghost ship. The Mary Celeste was discovered abandoned and adrift in the Atlantic in 1872, new experiments help to explain the unusual circumstances of the crew's disappearance in this new film.
Daisy is a maritime historian and archaeologist with a special interest in shipwrecks and coastal history. She is a member of the Centre for Port Cities and Maritime Cultures and an affiliate of the Centre of Excellence for Heritage Innovation at the University of Portsmouth. Daisy also serves on the council of the Navy Records Society as Social Media Editor and holds multiple roles within the Society for Nautical Research, including within the Research and Programme committee. She has recently joined the Mariner’s Mirror Podcast team and is expanding her experience in broadcasting and public engagement.
Daisy’s PhD research was undertaken in a collaborative split-site partnership between the University of Portsmouth and Högskolan i Halmstad on the west coast of Sweden. Her thesis entitled ‘Shipwreck Shores: Wrecking and Coastal Cultures of Britain and Sweden 1700-1850’, was supervised by Dr Cathryn Pearce. She is delighted to have just completed her viva and is expected to graduate this summer.
University of Portsmouth PhD graduate awarded Hunterian Lectureship by the Royal College of Surgeons of England
The Hunterian Lectureship is one of the oldest and most prestigious awards in British surgery.
The golden age of dinosaur discovery: Why we're finding a new species nearly every week
In this episode, we meet Dr Jeremy Lockwood, a former GP who, at age 57, left medicine to pursue a PhD in palaeontology at the University of Portsmouth.
Research network news
Seeking Contract Researcher and Early Career Researcher Representatives for University Research and Innovation Committee (URIC)
We are seeking two new members for URIC, the University Research and Innovation Committee, one to represent Contract Researchers* and one to represent Early Career Researchers**
URIC is one of the University’s senior academic committees and provides strategic leadership for research and innovation across the institution. The two new members are being added to enhance representation of researcher staff communities.
Any Contract Research* or ECR** staff members may apply and we would be particularly pleased to receive expressions of interest from those from under-represented groups.
*Staff in fixed term, permanent or hourly-based research-only posts, including but not limited to, Research Fellow, Research Assistant, Research Associate.
**Staff who are in the first five years of their academic career.
Contract Research Staff Group
The Contract Research Staff Group within the Faculty of Health and Sciences brings together contract researchers from diverse schools and disciplines. It is a supportive space to connect, share ideas, and exchange feedback in an open and collaborative environment. The group ensures that the voices of contract researchers are heard within the faculty, advocating for their needs and contributing to a more supportive research environment.
The group encourages networking and collaboration across different fields, helping members build relationships and explore interdisciplinary opportunities.
If you are a contracted member of research staff, please join us to be part of a community that values collaboration, strengthens researcher voices, and supports professional growth.
Welcome to the Contract Research Staff Group
Welcome to the Contract Research Staff Group, a community built by researchers specifically for researchers. As your representatives, we are all volunteers from within your own community. We understand the unique challenges of contract research because we live them alongside you. Our goal is simple, to listen, to advocate, and to ensure your voice is heard at every level of the university. Our primary hub is Microsoft Teams. You have already been added to the Research Staff Forum group chat. Please keep an eye on that space for updates. This is your platform to network, share ideas and support one another's career progression. Think of this group as a collaborative engine. It's a place to discover new funding streams and projects, find collaboration opportunities across different disciplines and build the professional relationships that help your work thrive. We also view this as a vital space for feedback. Whether you have thoughts on research policy, workload, or career development, we want to hear them. If you prefer to share your suggestions privately, we provide an anonymous feedback link to ensure you can speak openly and safely. We need your active participation to succeed. Tell us what skills you need and what support will help you reach the next level. Stay tuned for our community sessions coming up soon, where we can connect in person. Please keep an eye on your emails and the Research Staff Forum Teams group chat for updates. We're here for you. Let's work together for our research community.
Research Culture Pillar update
Since our collaborative event on 23 January 2026, the Research Culture Pillars have been involved in the following activities:
- Collation of input and insights on current good practice and initiatives from across the university, relevant to their pillar
- Working with key colleagues as part of pillar working groups and key stakeholders to inform identification of priority actions
- Working to identify a 'long list' of pillar priority actions that will provide the greatest impact on research culture over the next 18 months and provide tangible and measurable impact to inform REF SPRE submissions.
From here, we will be looking to consult on the proposed actions to ensure priorities align with research strategy and other relevant initiatives and action plans across the institution.
List of Pillar Leads as follows:
- Research Culture Strategy and Leadership - Dr Darren Van Laar
- Research Integrity, Ethics and Governance - Dr Simon Kolstoe
- Open Research - Dr Matt Miller-Dicks
- Environmental Sustainability - Dr Philip Soar
- Engagement and Collaboration - Suzi Edwards
- Advancing Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Research - Dr Karen Middleton
- Supporting and Developing our R&I Community - Lisa Rhodes
- Research Culture for Postgraduate Research Students - Dr Vincent Adams
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Research Culture Pillar
Exploring Equity and Inclusion in Women Researchers' Journeys - through lived experiences and research work
Online Wednesday 1st July
This event aims to raise the profile of women (and those who identify as women) in research and to showcase research in gender equity.
We are seeking speakers, presenters and panelists for this online event and wish to receive expressions of interest from staff, at any career stage, to provide either of the following:
- 30 minute presentation - to include 5 minutes of Q&A
- Being part of a 45 minute panel discussion
If you would like to be considered as a speaker, please complete the short Google form by midday Friday 15th May. Applications will be reviewed by a panel and you will be notified of the outcome of your application by Friday 22nd May - if we are oversubscribed, we will invite you to contribute to the next event.
DRI staff spotlight
Meet the Staff Research Culture team
For each edition of Research Connect, we shine a spotlight on a team or member of the Department of Research and Innovation. This month, we’re featuring the Staff Research Culture team. Read on to learn who they are and how they can support you.
Public lectures
The Public Lecture Series started in June 2025, and so far has seen 1,036 guest registrations. Of those attendees who provided information, 54% were external to the University of Portsmouth and 45% of respondents were new to attending events at the University. Events have included everything from a live DNA sequencing demonstration to a puppetry performance, with our upcoming April event including a tasting of alcoholic spirits produced from crops grown in the Chernobyl exclusion zone. So far, 24 people have attended multiple events in the series, showing that the events draw people back in for events on varied topics, not just guests with an interest in a specific area.
Following on from the success of events so far, we are excited to launch our call for speakers for academic year 2026/27. We welcome speakers from all roles and career stages and all research areas. The series encourages collaborative approaches and non-traditional delivery elements. You can find out about the intentions of the series here, and can submit an event proposal here.
If you have any questions about the Public Lecture Series or would like to join the Public Engagement Network, you can contact Hannah Coombs at hannah.coombs@port.ac.uk.
Training and development
Launch of the New Researcher Induction Sessions
As a result of the positive feedback we have received from our current half day induction sessions, we are now pleased to launch an enhanced session that will include even more valuable advice and awareness of the central support provided by the Department of Research and Innovation (DRI) for R&I available to staff across the institution.
These practical and interactive induction sessions will include the following:
- Updates on the University of Portsmouth's approach to enhancing research culture
- Signposting to the range and breadth of support available for progressing R&I activities from teams across DRI
- Briefing on important aspects and processes for integrity, ethics and governance, use of Pure and accessing funding
- Sharing of a range of valuable resources and guidance available to them
...As well as time to meet colleagues and share good practice
Target Audience
- Researchers, academics and R&I support staff new to the University of Portsmouth
- Colleagues who would like an update on the current support provided from teams across DRI
- Anyone who wants to find out more and meet colleagues
Our first, enhanced induction session is taking place on 20 May 2026.
Supporting Return to Research Through Coaching
Returning to research after time away within the last 12 months, whether due to illness, parental leave, or caring responsibilities, can be exciting but may also be professionally and emotionally challenging.
Time away can:
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disrupt publication and funding trajectories
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reduce career visibility and competitiveness
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create barriers to re-entry and progression
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impact wellbeing and confidence
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exacerbate existing inequalities
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increase the risk of leaving research entirely
To support colleagues who have returned from a period of time away within the last year, we are offering tailored, online, one-to-one coaching designed to help you re-engage with your research identity by helping you articulate goals and rebuild confidence in a way that is sustainable, inclusive, and empowering.
What’s on offer?
Eligible staff can access up to 3 x 1 hour of tailored, confidential, online one‑to‑one coaching with an external coach that will provide:
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A confidential and supportive space to reflect and plan
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Sessions tailored to your specific context, goals, and experiences
Closing date for applications is midday, Monday 11 May 2026.
Upcoming Training & Development events
Explore our upcoming events, training sessions, and development opportunities available to all staff over the coming months. If you have any questions, please contact our team at researchculture@port.ac.uk.
Click the month to see what's on
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Advances in Ethics & Research Culture: Is it ethical to use AI in Research? (in person)
Thursday 7 May 2026
1.30pm-3.30pm
Moving beyond research specifically to create or develop AI, is it ethical to also use AI as a research tool?
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Researcher Induction and Updates on R&I Support (in person)
Wednesday 20 May 2026
9.30am-3.00pm
An opportunity to hear an overview of the expertise and support available through the Department of Research & Innovation and be signposted to useful resources and tools. Open to all staff, especially new researchers and those wishing to be updated on R&I support.
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Ethics Committee Members Training (in person)
Wednesday 3 June 2026
10.00am-12.00pm
An opportunity to discuss the role of an ethics reviewer in a cross-disciplinary group.
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Ethics, Integrity and Governance Training (online)
Tuesday 16 June 2026
9.30am-11.30am
To consider how ethics review sits within the wider governance, integrity and research culture landscape.
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Save the Date: Equity and Inclusion in Research at the University of Portsmouth (online)
Wednesday 1 July 2026
Showcasing gender based research and the women who lead it - more details and information to follow!
Department of Research and Innovation
The Department of Research and Innovation (DRI) is here to support, drive and enable research and innovation across the institution.
We provide support throughout the research and innovation process, while also working behind the scenes to ensure systems and procedures are in place so activity runs smoothly and with integrity.
- Funding and Skills – guidance on applying for funding and opportunities for staff development.
- Open and Accessible Research – support with open access , open research, and research data management.
- Turning Ideas into Impact – advice on IP and commercialisation, impact through knowledge exchange, and Pure support.
- Research Culture – promoting integrity, governance and ethics, advancing EDI in research, supporting PGR students, strengthening connections with partners, and sharing updates on qualitative research, current news and events.
Our work underpins the University’s research and innovation priorities and supports colleagues to achieve excellence and impact.
Contact us
Let us know if you have any research culture news or events planned as we’d love to feature it here. Get in touch with Suzi Edwards or Jo Fairwood at research-connect@port.ac.uk to discuss further.