NIRPN Organisational Insight Exchange Programme
Reflections on the NIRPN Organisational Insight Exchange Programme Pilot
Northern Ireland’s research and innovation (R&I) ecosystem thrives on collaboration, knowledge sharing, and cross-sector understanding. Last year, the Northern Ireland Research Professionals Network (NIRPN) piloted its Organisational Insight Exchange Programme (OIEP), a successful initiative designed to give R&I managers and administrators the opportunity to learn from colleagues in different organisations and sectors.
What is the Insight Exchange Programme?
The programme offers a flexible, low-pressure framework for participants to interact with another research professional outside of their organisation and to explore a range of professional goals. From understanding the operational context of other organisations to fostering sector mobility and career development, the initiative encourages meaningful conversations and knowledge exchange across Northern Ireland’s R&I sector.
As a pilot, the programme involved a small cohort to test the approach, gauge benefits, and refine the process. Over 2–3 months, 9 participants and their hosts dedicated up to 8 hours to tailored meetings, event attendance, and knowledge-sharing activities, all aligned with participants’ individual objectives.
Participant Feedback and Outcomes
Feedback from the pilot highlighted strong support for the programme, with all respondents saying they would recommend it to colleagues and three-quarters of participants expressing interest in becoming hosts.
Both participants and hosts reported tangible benefits. Hosts found that the exchange increased their visibility, provided opportunities to share expertise, and gave them valuable insight into the challenges facing other sectors. Participants, meanwhile, described gaining access to new professional networks, being exposed to different ways of working, and feeling more confident when engaging in cross-organisational communication.
The programme helped demystify processes across institutions and fostered relationships that make future collaboration easier.
Programme coordinator, participants, and hosts at the end-of-event evaluation and celebration lunch.
Momentum One Zero & MOIC
Harshal Patil, Business Development Manager at Momentum One Zero, partnered with the Medicines Optimisation Innovation Centre (MOIC). While Harshal was familiar with the pharma and bio-tech industry, the healthcare system was unfamiliar territory.
“Clinicians speak a very different language. I needed to understand their perspective and how the healthcare system operates,” Harshal reflected.
Through structured sessions, event attendance, and follow-up discussions, Harshal gained insight into healthcare delivery, strengthened connections, and identified areas for future collaboration. MOIC also benefited, gaining visibility, understanding Momentum One Zero’s expertise in digital transformation, and forming an ongoing professional relationship.
As Anita Hogg, MOIC’s Head, said:
“It was much richer than just meeting at a networking event – the protected time meant real conversations, real connections, and potential for future collaboration.”
The Open University & Queen’s University Belfast
Alice Byrne, Knowledge Exchange Manager at The Open University in Ireland, joined the programme to strengthen her understanding of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs). Hosted by Karen McGeough at Queen’s University Belfast, Alice gained clarity on KTP processes, increased confidence in supporting opportunities, and developed a valuable peer network.
“Sharing best practice benefits the whole region… it creates a better experience for partners and strengthens Northern Ireland’s reputation for collaboration,” Alice observed.
Lessons and Looking Forward
The pilot highlighted strengths, including accessibility, flexibility, and the quality of professional interactions. Future opportunities include exploring ways to further enhance host and participant engagement and considering longer or more immersive placements to maximise learning opportunities.
Why It Matters
The OIEP demonstrates the importance of protected time for meaningful conversations. By connecting professionals across sectors, the initiative not only strengthens individual careers but also enhances organisational learning, fosters collaboration, and supports Northern Ireland’s broader research and innovation ecosystem.
Building on participant feedback, NIRPN has launched the next iteration of the programme, with expressions of interest open until 6th February. Visit the website to hear more.