The characteristics and career pathways of third-space research professionals in universities
Think tank: HEPI
Author(s): Dr Jonathan Grant; Dr Tom Kennie
August 8, 2024
This report from UK think tank HEPI draws on recent work undertaken in various research contexts and explores how the invisible third space is beginning to be seen.
The third space describes a group of university staff who can neither be described as academic nor non-academic professional staff, such as technology transfer staff, those overseeing specific labs or equipment and people serving external clients who are commissioning research from a university.
This report draws on recent work undertaken in various research contexts in the UK and overseas and explores how the invisible third space is beginning to be seen. It finds universities could do more to support transitions of third-space professionals, especially those coming into higher education from other sectors. Furthermore, it recommends universities should acknowledge and develop alternative career pathways that are unconstrained by the current academic versus professional staff dualism.
Without such changes, further strain will be put on the institution of the university but more importantly on individuals working in the third space.
