Building Institutional Capacity for Societal Impact: Lessons from Victoria

In this hybrid seminar Professor Melinda Craike will present her work on building institutional capacity for societal impact, followed by a Q&A and discussion.

Abstract: As expectations for research to demonstrate societal impact continue to grow, attention is shifting from individual researcher capability to the broader environments that support or constrain impact. Research institutions play a critical role in embedding the structures, policies, and cultures that enable meaningful and sustained impact.In this seminar, Professor Melinda Craike will share how her team’s work at the Institute for Health and Sport at Victoria University (Australia) is building institutional capacity for societal impact. This includes co-leading the development of a university-wide Societal Impact Assessment Framework, designing and delivering a tailored program of researcher development sessions (including the RISE impact workshops), and embedding knowledge translation into candidature milestones, supervisor training, and university-wide systems.The seminar will explore how institutional initiatives can contribute to a more enabling environment for societal impact, while acknowledging that research institutions are just one part of the broader evidence ecosystem. Professor Craike will also reflect on key challenges, lessons learned, and practical strategies for change. This session will be of interest to academics, research leaders, and professional staff who are interested in strengthening institutional approaches to societal impact.