Unlocking Inclusive Research Governance: The Power of Shadow Committees at ARMA 2025

Our session, titled “Diversifying Research Governance: The Use of Shadow Committees to Enhance Inclusive Participation in Research Strategy,” will take place from 1:45 PM on Thursday, June 19th. This session is part of a wider panel discussion and will be followed by an opportunity for Q&A. Formation has been collaborating with Durham University on the Reimagining Governance for a Flourishing Research Culture project. We invite you to join us as we explore this creative strategy to foster inclusivity in higher education research governance.

The Importance of Inclusivity in Research Governance

Change and uncertainty are prevalent in the worlds of research funding, evaluation, and practice. It often feels like there’s little time to pause and reflect on the bigger picture. However, it's crucial that we shape this ever-evolving landscape. This session will explore significant strategic initiatives currently influencing the future of research. We'll discuss how these initiatives are driving change in both expected and unexpected ways.

Attending this session will give you the opportunity to consider several external policy initiatives. These policies are driving change in our environments, and we can influence how they are implemented within our institutions.

Exploring Shadow Committees

We will be the first speakers to discuss the use of shadow committees in evolving research governance practices. Following our presentation, the second talk will delve into how the Research Excellence Framework (REF) influences institutional culture. The third talk will focus on the implementation of Open Research Data (ORD) policies and practices.

Collectively, these presentations will look at how horizon scanning can support more effective strategies and help avoid decision paralysis. Each project will present their work briefly, followed by a 30-minute audience Q&A.

Key Takeaways

• Shadow Committees: Gain insights into leveraging shadow committees to create inclusive and effective governance structures that align with strategic objectives.

• Influence of REF: Understand how REF shapes institutional culture and its implications for research strategy.

• ORD Policies: Identify challenges and practical recommendations for embedding sustainable and transparent data practices that inform effective strategy and decision-making.

  
  

As we prepare for our presentation, we look forward to engaging with other research managers who are tackling similar issues. The dialogue surrounding inclusive participation and decision-making is becoming increasingly critical as we witness ongoing changes across the sector.

The Role of Shadow Committees

The use of shadow committees represents a transformative approach to diversifying research governance. By addressing feelings of disenfranchisement within the research community, we aim to cultivate a culture that values every voice. Shadow committees provide an avenue for underrepresented groups to share their insights. This can lead to more equitable decision-making processes and ultimately enhance the quality of research conducted.

Join us at the ARMA Conference to explore exciting developments at Durham University. We encourage you to consider how shadow committees can reshape research governance within your own organization.

If you'd like to explore how a shadow committee initiative could work at your organization, please reach out.

We hope to see you there!