A starter’s guide to socio-economic impact of research
Cluster
Research and Valorisation
Competences as defined in ResearchComp
ResearchComp is a European competency framework developed by the European Commission. It provides a common reference framework that makes researchers’ competencies more visible and comparable—not only for researchers themselves, but also for universities, employers, and policymakers across Europe.
To get started with ResearchComp, you can consult this guide.
| Competence Area | Competences |
| Cognitive Abilities |
Analytical thinking;Creativity / innovative thinking;Critical thinking;Strategic thinking; |
| Doing Research | Designing research processes;Formulating research questions;Interdisciplinary work;Research ethics & integrity; |
| Managing Research | Evaluating research quality;Project planning & management; |
| Managing Research Tools | Citizen science engagement; |
| Making an Impact | Communicating science to the public;Innovation & knowledge transfer;Policy engagement & societal impact; |
| Working with Others |
Teamwork & collaboration;Networking & professional interaction;Promoting inclusion & diversity;Maintaining well‑being in research settings;Managing intercultural communication; |
| Self-Management | Entrepreneurship & initiative;Self‑organization & planning;Career management & development; |
Target Group
(post)doctoral researchers, no previous knowledge required
Teachers
Sanne Stegen - Jeroen Bourgonjon - Alexis Dewaele - Stefan Meysman - Esther De Smet
Content
Participants will be introduced to the concept of (socio-economic) impact of research from a local and global perspective.
- They will discover how this concept might apply to their research strategy and goals, and what Ghent University provides by way of information and support.
- They will dive into the practicalities of planning for impact.
- They will be handed the essential building blocks such as performing a stakeholder analysis, identifying specific and feasible impact targets, introducing a flipped approach to the research process, mapping out impact pathways, and developing a communication strategy.
Objectives
Ghent University wants its researchers to become impact literate and its research to have an impact on society.
Training method
Two half days of interactive workshop mixing peer learning with expert advice. Some preparatory exercises might be required between session one and two. Please come along ready to contribute and participate fully.
Time schedule and venue
Autumn 2026
- Thursday 22 October - leslokaal 3.3., Decanaat Geneeskunde (UZ, ingang 42, 3de verdieping)
- Thursday 29 October - leslokaal 5.2 (UZ, ingang 42, 5de verdieping).
Spring 2027
t.b.d.
Registration
Follow this link for the registration and waiting list.
Your registration will be confirmed by separate e-mail from the Doctoral School. Cancellation of your registration can only be performed by sending an email to doctoralschools@ugent.be.
Registration fee
Free of charge for Doctoral School members.
The no show policy applies.
Number of participants
Minimum 15, maximum 25
Language
English
Evaluation method
100% participation.
After successful participation, the Doctoral School will add this course to your curriculum in Oasis. Please note that this takes up to one to two months after completion of the course.