The Research Ideas Catalogue – Knowledge and Impact (RIC-KI) inspires researchers to think creatively about developing their best ideas together, for mutual benefit, greater gain and output. This approach offers significant benefits by creating research opportunities that would not otherwise occur, enabling research to go further and faster.
There are now over 200 members who have submitted over 43 ideas, leading to 14 confirmed collaborations with a further eight under consideration.
Furthermore, new connections have been made between members at 27 institutions, 10 of which are outside the UK, from locations across Europe, Africa, North and Central America and Australasia.
It is led by Professor Amanda Daley, who is an expert in Behavioural Medicine and also the Director of the Centre for Lifestyle Medicine and Behaviour at Loughborough.
Since its inception, it has encouraged researchers from across the globe to collaborate on ideas relating to physical activity, weight management and dietary behaviours, health and wellbeing, and sport.
Dr Keith Tolfrey, Reader in Paediatric Exercise Physiology from the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences commented: “RIC-KI has been great in helping to create links between researchers for sharing exciting new (and dormant) research ideas.Collaboration of this nature is key to addressing the most important questions on health-related physical activity, exercise and reducing sedentary behaviours (to name but a few) to improve the quality of life for all segments of society.
“RIC-KI has allowed me to team up with health nutritionists and psychologists to use my skills and experiences as an exercise physiologist to work on a project aimed at understanding the complexities of lifestyle behaviour change. I take this opportunity to thank Professor Daley and her innovative, open scheme to bring researchers together in this manner.”
Those who are interested in finding out more about RIC-KI can visit the dedicated website and create a free account. RIC-KI is currently listing new ideas, which can be submitted through the site. The University’s online magazine VOLUME also recently showcased how RIC-KI has the potential to make research go further and faster, all whilst supporting healthy lives around the world – the article can be viewed here.