As UCL researchers we strive to create dynamic and inclusive research environments. This means using more creative and innovative ways of sharing and demonstrating research excellence, in addition to traditional outputs like published research papers.

An “Improving Research Culture” small grant was awarded to Aradhna Kaushal (Institute of Epidemiology and Healthcare) and Shoba Poduval (Institute of Health Informatics) to share their experience of developing creative research outputs and produce a learning package for UCL early career researchers with examples and guidance.

Aradhna and Shoba identified a number of Research Culture priorities from key reports including UCL’s 10-year Research Culture Roadmap. This includes ‘Openness and integrity in our research and innovation’ and identifies supporting and rewarding non-traditional outputs alongside more traditional ones as a research culture priority at UCL.

They have developed an online interactive learning package with several examples of creative outputs from UCL researchers including podcasts, animations and events, and a step-by-step ‘how to’ guide.

An example of the creative outputs showcased in the learning package is the video abstract below.

The learning package aims to:

1. Explain the range of diverse research outputs with traditional and non-traditional examples.
2. Explain why diverse research outputs are important for the UCL, individual researchers, and for communities.
3. Understand the steps needed to create diverse research outputs, including collaborating with artists and creatives.

Creative research outputs help to communicate your findings more effectively, engage a broader audience, and make a lasting impression. Exploring creative methods enriches your skill set and opens doors to new collaborations. The learning package offers flexible learning at your own pace, with expert insights, examples and tips collated from multiple projects and provides a forum for sharing ideas and connecting with others.

Embracing creative research outputs can elevate your work, making it more engaging and influential.

Ready to get started?

Explore today by completing the diverse research outputs learning package. You just need to enter your email address and a password – this is so that you can return to the course and receive a certificate of completion.

Acknowledgements:

This project was funded by a UCL Population Health Sciences ‘Improving Research Culture’ small grant. With thanks to Sarah Barnes, Maria Kett, Nicola Phillips, Sarah Assad and Megan Armstrong for peer review, and everyone who contributed examples of their work.