Edinburgh Napier academics have an exciting opportunity to enhance your research leadership skills and connect with peers across Scotland through the Scottish Research Leaders Network (SRLN)!
Launching in January 2026, this collaborative initiative aims to make research leadership training accessible to all Scottish researchers – whether you’re an aspiring leader, newly stepping into the role, or already established.
Why join?
The SRLN is designed to:
- Build a connected community of research leaders across Scottish Higher Education Institutions.
- Provide practical tools and frameworks for effective leadership.
- Offer peer learning and networking opportunities to strengthen Scotland’s research culture.
Drawing on resources from the UKRI Future Leaders Fellows Development Network, the programme combines expert facilitation with interactive sessions that address the real challenges of research leadership
Programme highlights
The network will run short monthly online sessions, each focusing on a key aspect of leadership. Here’s a snapshot of what’s coming:
- 20 January – Building Self-Awareness for Leadership: Understand your drivers and motivators for authentic leadership.
- 17 February – Self-Doubt and the Inner Critic: Manage imposter feelings and enhance performance.
- 16 March – Building Effective Research Teams: Learn models for team development and preventing dysfunction.
- 21 April – Situational Leadership and Motivating Others: Adapt your style and inspire your team.
- 19 May – Coaching and Delegation: Use coaching approaches for empowering others.
- 15 September – Challenging Conversations and Non-Violent Communication: Plan and deliver respectful, impactful dialogue.
- 20 October – Values and Vision in Research: Define and articulate your research vision.
- 17 November – Strategic Thinking and Planning for Research: Horizon scan and set clear goals for the future.
Attendance is optional, and sessions will be recorded to create a sustainable resource for ongoing development. Institutions may also choose to run integrated cohorts for deeper engagement.
How to get involved
Booking links for each session are available via Eventbrite. Download this event brochure to access the booking links: Scottish Research Leaders Network Programme 2026
You can also reach out to hellosrln@outlook.com for more details.