Diversity Leadership for Research Managers

Amid growing calls for inclusivity and representation in research, the role of diversity leadership is becoming central to fostering robust, innovative, and socially impactful research and research environments. Diversity in research is more than just a metric or policy; it enhances the quality and relevance of scientific inquiry and advances the credibility of research in society. As research institutions worldwide establish professional standards and develop roles for research managers and administrators (RMAs), there is a need for RMA professionals to possess a nuanced understanding of diversity across cultures, disciplines, and institutional frameworks.

In Diversity Leadership for Research Managers, author Jakob Feldtfos Christensen addresses this need head-on by equipping RMAs with essential tools and frameworks for integrating diversity leadership into all phases of research management. This comprehensive work provides hands-on strategies for diversity leadership, tailored specifically to the RMA profession, and is the first of its kind to contextualize diversity as a practical, core competence. Christensen’s volume covers everything from pre-award to post-award stages and delves into personal and organizational leadership, helping RMAs foster inclusive research environments. By building a shared vocabulary and a set of global principles, the work aims to empower RMAs to advance diversity in research and research management, responsibly navigate cultural challenges, and create pathways for sustainable, impactful change.

Offering actionable insights for RMAs and research leaders alike, Diversity Leadership for Research Managers is an indispensable resource for anyone in research administration seeking to make a meaningful impact on the inclusivity and excellence of research.

Jakob Feldtfos Christensen is the director of DIVERSIunity, an international consultancy based in Denmark dedicated to making diversity and internationalization work in research and research management. Jakob has worked within research management and internationalization for more than ten years at Aarhus University and DEFACTUM. He founded DIVERSIunity in 2020. With Lachlan Stephen-Smith, he co-hosts “The Diversity in Research Podcast”.