A new report from the Higher Education Policy Institute (www.hepi.ac.uk), The
characteristics and career pathways of third space research
professionals: Reflections from practice by
Jonathan Grant and Tom Kennie, draws on recent work undertaken in
various research contexts in the UK and overseas to explore how
the previously invisible third space is beginning to be seen.
The authors conclude that:
- universities need to do more to support transitions of
third-space research and technology professionals, especially
those coming into higher education from other sectors; and
- universities need to acknowledge and develop alternative
career paths that are not constrained by the current academic
versus professional staff dualism.
Given the changing nature of work and the evolving social purpose
of universities, the report suggests that – without these changes
– further strain will be put on the institution of the university
but more importantly on individuals working in the third space.
Dr Jonathan Grant, one of the authors of the report,
said:
‘It is fascinating how many people fall between the cracks of the
classic academic versus professional staff dualism that
characterises so much of academia today.'
‘Over the past 15 years, there has been an increased interest in
the critical role third-space research and technology
professionals play in supporting universities to deliver on their
education, research and social responsibility missions.'
‘However that interest has yet to turn into practice, with an
urgent need for universities to think through how they support
non-academic and non-professional staff in their careers.'
Dr Tom Kennie, the other author of the report,
said:
‘It is clear from our own practice that more thought needs to be
given to supporting third-space research and technology
professionals.'
‘Sometime these people come from outside academia and need
supporting in transitioning into a unique and often baffling
culture.'
‘Within the academic world, third-space professionals often have
to navigate an HR system that does not formally recognise them,
in terms of career pathways and development. And as a result
there is a risk that the sector will not retain these creative
individuals that are critical to the future of universities.'
, the Director of HEPI,
said:
‘This fascinating new report adds to our output on the pressures
faced by university staff by putting a laser-like focus on one
category of staff that are often ignored but on which
institutions increasingly rely for their successes.'
‘You do not need to be on a university campus for long before you
see and feel the differences such staff make. So they deserve to
have comparable career prospects and support as other staff.'
‘We hope this report will make that more likely by prompting new
conversations.'
