In a joint initiative between Karlstad University, Mälardalen University, Mid Sweden University and Linnaeus University, future research leaders are trained in the leadership programme REAL, Research Leader Initiative Programme. The course equips future research leaders with important lessons, and facilitate exchanges of experiences across subject and university boundaries.
The purpose of the REAL leadership programme is to introduce leadership in a research context, in preparation for future assignments as research leaders. The participants have been selected through a nomination process internally at each faculty.
After completing the programme, participants will be able to:
- recognise and relate to theories of leadership and group development,
- reflect on the impact of leadership on themselves and others,
- relate to the importance of interpersonal relationships in leadership,
- work with visions and strategic goals within a group.
The first round of REAL was recently completed. The participants came from many different disciplines, and have met at a number of gatherings during the past year at the participating universities locations around the country.
- It is rewarding to have a mix of disciplines, and it enriches the discussions to learn from different experiences," says Örjan Danielsson, Head of Research, Collaboration and Innovation Support at Mälardalen University.
From Karlstad University, Anna Fyrberg Yngfalk, Yvonne Liljekvist, Erica Sandlund, Andreas Öjehag, Ulrika Lindmark, and Andreas Theocharis participated in this round.
The programme uses a variety of methods from theory, self-reflection and group work. On the whole, the participants are very satisfied with the programme and the fact that they were trusted to participate:
- We have practised leading each other, and have been given tasks to prepare for each meeting, says Anna Fyrberg Yngfalk. The participants in the leadership programme have all been from medium-sized universities with similar infrastructure and similar challenges. A good platform, very useful and instructive.
- Participating in this initiative has been very stimulating, says Andreas Öjehag. I was initially sceptical, but much of what we have learned has really triggered processes within us. How can you actually build sustainable research environments?
- Life and a research career go hand in hand (or not). This idea is useful to have in coaching situations, says Ulrika Lindmark.
- I have received good support from the department, I am so grateful to have had the opportunity, says Yvonne Liljekvist.
New rounds of the REAL leadership programme will start this autumn and next spring. There are also plans for a continuation course, a so-called REAL Advance, as well as a local introductory course for those who want to explore whether research leadership could be something for them.
- The Advance course is aimed at more experienced research leaders, says Linda Ryan Bengtsson, research advisor at the Grants and Innovation Office, which has coordinated Karlstad University's part of the programme.
