In the coming years, when we look back on 2020 and 2021, it might always be remembered as a dark period and one that changed the world. Yet so much that was positive came out of the past two years. Of significance for us was the realisation that UFS research was strong and built on a solid foundation. During these turbulent times research could continue apace, despite the restrictions that the pandemic placed on us, and possibilities for new and different engagements were embraced. 

There has been significant growth and impact over the last decade in our research portfolio. Taking cognisance of the importance of how information and knowledge can be accessed, how research findings are adopted and how this is assimilated, are aspects that stood out. 

Individual researchers continued to make their mark, and new faces emerged on the list of excellent researchers. The fact that many of our researchers were drawn into international and national groups to help the fight against the virus, is testament to the standing that these researchers enjoy beyond the boundaries of our institution. Established partnerships were of critical importance, as were the new ones forged in a consolidated effort to not only seek solutions for the pandemic but also ways to overcome the constraints placed on the core business of the university. 

However, it was not all about COVID-19. The nature of research is to search for the unknown, and so our researchers continued to push the frontiers of knowledge in a range of other areas that had nothing to do with the pandemic. 

Research funding in particular the health sciences increased, and in general 2020 and 2021 saw a welcome increase in third stream funding, confirming that there is trust and respect for UFS researchers and the work they do. 

As we move into the next period of UFS research development, we know that things will not be the same. We have learned much from the last two years, about how research can be done under stringent circumstances, how collaborations can be built, how communication and interaction can continue and even be improved. Resources needed to be strategically aligned to achieve the necessary impact and our researchers did not sit still and wait for things to be “normal” again – they continued to produce excellent results in innovative ways. Although we continue to face considerable challenges, the future looks good!

Dr Glen Taylor
Senior Director: Research Development