The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) commissioned 4Sciences to undertake a comprehensive scoping study to explore how best to support research functions across its diverse membership. The study provides strategic insights and practical recommendations to guide the ACU in enhancing research ecosystems throughout the Commonwealth.
Focusing on two core strands, the study combines:
- Sector Analysis: Mapping key actors, funding mechanisms, and best practice principles in research support and strengthening.
- Needs Assessment: Capturing the varied research support requirements of ACU member institutions through qualitative engagement.
These strands are underpinned by a review of relevant literature – including grey literature – and contextualised within the ACU’s own experience and strategic positioning. The study was conducted in close collaboration with ACU stakeholders, ensuring that findings and outputs were co-created and grounded in real-world needs.
Using a mixed-methods approach, the research integrated both quantitative and qualitative data, alongside desktop analysis and stakeholder consultation. This participatory methodology ensured that the recommendations are both evidence-based and reflective of the operational contexts and working environments experienced by ACU members.
Key findings highlight a broad landscape of funders – governmental, NGO, and philanthropic – actively supporting research and capacity strengthening. While progress has been made in evaluating the impact of interventions, further work is needed to translate best practice into actionable strategies that drive sustainable research development.