It’s been just over a week since I had my last day working as a Research Funding Specialist at Edinburgh Research Office and I’m now in the midst of packing for my move down south. In amongst the forest of boxes in my living room, I thought I’d write a brief reflection on my time in corporate services at the University of Edinburgh.
I’ve been a part of ERO since December 2024, where I was very grateful that they let me join, slightly surreally, just days before the annual Xmas party. I’ve been a part of the team for 1 year 8 months, but in that time I’ve learnt so much about research funding, submitted hundreds of applications, and processed a bunch of awards. I’ve also met so many wonderful colleagues, both in the research funding team, wider ERO, and the School ROs, and of course the fantastic researchers we support.
I have developed over this time, and while I still retain a little of my desire to see every little thing through to completion myself (golden retriever brain), I’ve become a lot better at redirection and delegation where required. At the end of the day, as much as I sometimes wish I could, one person can’t do everything, and you need to rely on your colleagues. I’m getting better at signposting — though, in somewhere as large and complex as the University of Edinburgh, it takes time to learn where all the teams are, and who is responsible for what. It may be hackneyed, but communication is key — and it’s where it is so easy to fall short, especially within such as large complex structure like a university, and it’s one area I know we can always improve on. At the end of the day, we all work together to try and provide the best service possible for our excellent researchers. I’m sure my colleagues will miss me wittering on about Project Partners, contracts, and deadlines haha.
Contrary to what many people seem to say about their workplaces, I can honestly report that I am not gleefully stepping away — I have genuinely enjoyed being a part of ERO and getting to know the incredibly diverse and talented staff there. If this whole research thing doesn’t work out, professional services may not have seen the last of me yet!
Thanks so much to all of the wonderful well-wishes from everyone at UoE in my e-card. It was really lovely to be able to say goodbye to a lot of the team in person on Monday last week. Wishing you all the best for the future!
~ Edward
Here are some snaps from my typical commute from Waverley, up Fleshmarket Close, and from Bristo Square to King’s Buildings to see my pals in Biological Sciences.
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