Loughborough University Centre Operations and Research Enablement Network (LU-CORe-Net)
Loughborough University has a well‑established network supporting colleagues working in operational and research‑enabling roles across our research centres: the Loughborough University Centre Operations and Research Enablement Network (LU‑CORe-Net). Through this network, Loughborough University demonstrates its commitment to supporting centre operations staff by providing a collaborative environment that promotes excellence in research management and administration.
Our aim: to foster collaboration, share best practice, and strengthen professional connections across the institution for those working in operational and research‑enabling roles across our research centres.
LU‑CORe-Net provides a platform for staff to exchange knowledge, discuss challenges, and develop strategies that enhance the management, visibility, and impact of their centres. Regular meetings bring colleagues together for discussion, shared learning, and professional development. The network also acts as a collective voice, advocating for positive change and contributing to University‑level groups on issues that matter most to centre operations and research‑enabling roles.
LU‑CORe-Net is committed to fostering an inclusive community where colleagues of all identities, backgrounds, and roles feel welcomed, respected, and empowered to contribute. We actively promote the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, discussions and opportunities. By embracing diverse experiences and perspectives, we strengthen the quality of our collaboration and the culture of research support across the University.
Participation in LU‑CORe-Net offers staff the opportunity to connect with peers, share experiences, and contribute to the continuous improvement of research management and centre operations at Loughborough University. The network is open to all grades and job families. Staff who wish to join the network are encouraged to reach out to the group who can be reached via email at lu.corenet@mailbox.lboro.ac.uk . We also have a MS Teams channel which you can join, General | LU-CoRe-Net (Loughborough University Centre Operations and Research Enablement Network) | Microsoft Teams – which provides a space to ask questions, share resources, and collaborate informally. We welcome suggestions for future topics and encourage colleagues to share ideas that would benefit the community.
LU‑CORe-Net is working with the PRISM network, a national community for professionals whose work underpins and enables research. PRISM connects colleagues across institutions, offering peer support, development opportunities, and a collective voice within the research ecosystem. We hope that this connection can broaden perspectives, share sector insights, and strengthen professional identity within research‑enabling roles.
Dr Priti Meredith & Dr Kristen Clements Chairs