Original publishing date: Jul 13, 2022
A few weeks ago CUCo hosted a session to bring together those working on the recognition and rewards structures within the alliance institutes in the different capacities. This was done in an effort to exchange information, learn from each other, and to see in which ways the respective institutions approach this challenge. To this end, we asked a representative of each institute to educate their peers on the ways this is being approached in their own institution. We learned about the six profiles in the UMCU, the three pronged approach at WUR and TRIPLE from UU. Additionally the session was also given a boost by the presence of a representative from UM sharing the progress on the pilot project on their new method focused on self-setting of criteria and a sounding board as measure of personal progression. All these inputs were then discussed in a new setting. Leading to a lively debate and exchange of ideas.
The core values underpinning the different initiatives seemed not to be so far apart. Yet, the implementation, and progression of the different initiatives do differ significantly. The discussion largely focused on the ways of enhancing team-science without disregarding the importance of the individual, how to include everyone (for CUCo particularly interesting: those who do unusual types of research), and how to do evaluations. As CUCo we hope to have inspired learning between the institutions on this all-important topic. Hopefully, we will be able to keep setting up such inspirational meetings. Do you think you could add to the discussion around this, in a relevant manner for CUCo? Please let us know by getting in contact!
On a personal note, I was certainly left hopeful by the initiatives that were presented, although each initiative leads to some questions and has drawbacks, it is good to know that the excessive workloads and lack of recognition are being taken seriously. It would be wonderful if this could lead to more space for unusual and interdisciplinary research.