Surrey Research Project Mangers Network

Surrey PRISM Network, bringing together administrators, project/programme managers, CDT managers and other professional services staff working to support active research projects.

What is a PRISM?

The term "PRISM" (Professional Research Investment and Strategy Manager) is used to encompass someone who is predominantly working to enable the delivery and growth of a large research project or projects. Roles are typically on fixed-term contracts (on a research grant or similar), and the term includes a diverse range of positions and responsibilities from administrators to grant managers and directors.

Who are we?

The Surrey Research Project Managers Network was created by a group of PRISM professionals at the University of Surrey to strengthen support for research management roles. We work across all faculties, collaborating with academic groups, research projects, and Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs).

The Research and Project Management Network at Surrey exists to build a visible, inclusive, and sustainable community of practice for staff who enable research. Our mission is to strengthen research culture, enhance professional skills, and embed high-quality project management across the University. By fostering collaboration, providing targeted training, and sharing best practices, we aim to raise the visibility of RPMs, contribute to major funding opportunities, and shape sector-wide standards.

Objectives

Community

The Network will identify and engage with PRISM staff across the University, hosting activities that connect the network and enable knowledge sharing. Peer-to-peer support and communication will be provided via Teams and SharePoint sites.

Training

Identification of training gaps for PRISM staff across the University and use of ERC funding to provide training sessions to bridge these gaps. The network will provide a report providing clear recommendations to guide future institutional investment in skills development.

Careers

Working collaboratively with HR and Finance, the Network will develop consistent role expectations for PRISMs at all levels to ensure clarity and alignment across the University. This will result in a valuable resource for both PRISM and academic staff when integrating PRISM roles into projects.

Can I join if I am not currently in a PRISM role?

Yes! We welcome everyone with an interest in PRISM-related activities and appreciate that job titles cover a wide variety of responsibilities. Our training opportunities will be aimed at those in typical PRISM roles but open to all staff at the University (regardless of network membership). Current University staff members can view the PRISM SharePoint site.

How can I join the Network?

Please complete the brief questionnaire, after which you will be invited to a Teams site. Please note this is an internal link only open to University of Surrey staff.

Network events

Our network events and training sessions are aimed at PRISM staff across the University but open to all staff members. If you are interested in attending future events, please contact PRISMnetworkadmin@surrey.ac.uk.

March 2026: Introduction to research project management

The training is based on the Research Administration and Management Programme (RAMP) designed and delivered by the Liverpool School for Tropical Medicine. This two-day course has been adapted to give an introduction to project management of research grants and is designed for research professional staff who work to actively support externally funded grants.

May 2026: Influence Under Constraint: Managing Stakeholders, Power and Visibility in Research Projects

This session focuses on how to influence effectively whilst navigating senior academic authority, managing risk and project integrity with no formal decision-making power. Grounded in real project scenarios brought by participants, this workshop will build practical capability in managing high-pressure moments, navigating stakeholders, and making your contribution visible.