The day opened with a welcome from Dr Edward Brooks and Ashley Cavers and a powerful keynote from Professor Alexander Betts, who introduced a practical framework for turning academic research into real-world SDG impact. His session underscored the importance of purpose-driven inquiry and evidence-based engagement.

Next, insights from Juergen Doering, Managing Director and renewable energy pioneer, as he drew from four decades of experience in sustainability to deliver a compelling session on “Getting Stuff Done.” Juergen challenged Fellows to,“act boldly, think systemically, and embrace uncertainty as you embark on your own impact journeys”.

In the afternoon, the Lab Team delivered an interactive project management workshop, equipping Fellows with tools for resource mapping, strategic communication, and effective team collaboration. Building the foundation for the day’s final and most dynamic part: the 90-second project pitch challenge.

Working in their newly formed project teams, Fellows presented concise overviews of their fieldwork focus and SDG-aligned goals. The exercise created space for immediate feedback, peer exchange, and cross-project inspiration, reinforcing a shared sense of direction and momentum.

As one Fellow reflected, “It was exciting to see how aligned we already are and how ready we are to make this real.”

With Research Skills Day behind us, Trinity Term is now in full swing. Our Fellows are gearing up for the Skills Sessions Series, a comprehensive programme covering practical topics such as stakeholder engagement, impact measurement, data storytelling, and policy strategy. These sessions are designed to equip our Fellows with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their research projects.

These sessions will deepen the cohort’s capabilities and confidence as they move closer to delivering collaborative, community-rooted, and SDG-driven research projects.