Formal Proposal for changes – Administration of Higher Degrees by Research and Research Publications

15 December 2017 

Today we release the Formal Proposal outlining the recommended changes to the organisation of research administration at The University of Queensland; including Higher Degrees by Research and Research Publications.

Consideration has been given to the feedback provided by a range of stakeholders across the university community regarding the service models outlined in the Consultation (Issues) Paper released on 17^th October. We thank all of those who took the time to consider and comment on the paper, and we are proud to see the commitment and passion our staff and students feel towards ensuring that UQ continues to deliver the best service to our research community.

The changes proposed are designed to improve the way we deliver our research services and build on our well-earned reputation as one of the world’s leading research universities.

We believe that the proposed models, combined with our ongoing program of process enhancement and systems improvement is truly the best way to ensure a sustainable research management model that will deliver the best for students and staff, not just now, but into the future.

We hope you will find the time to read the Formal Proposal. Forums have been scheduled in January as an opportunity for discussion to facilitate the consideration process. Details regarding these forums is available here. These forums will also be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person. Information on accessing the livestream will be made available on the website shortly.

The Formal Proposal and other supporting documents are available on the Transformation of HDR and Research Publications Administration website.

Given the Christmas holiday break, the Formal Proposal will be open for consideration until 31 January 2018. You can send your comments and questions to transformation@research.uq.edu.au

Following this consideration period for staff and review of the Formal Proposal by the Professional Staff Consultative Committee, the Proposal will be submitted to the Chief Operating Officer for consideration, in accordance with the UQ Enterprise Agreement.

We acknowledge that this is a challenging time and that this process will cause anxiety for affected staff. We are committed to supporting staff and minimising uncertainty through timely communications with affected staff.

Staff are encouraged to make the most of the available support during this process, both in terms of training and preparation workshops, as well as resources to support staff wellbeing. All staff may access the University’s free, confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to discuss any issues or concerns. The EAP service is provided by Davidson Trahaire Corpsych (Ph. 1300 360 364). Further information is provided on the website.

Regards

Peter and Robyn