Beyond the Russell Group: New Network Aims to Reshape Research Policy

ResearchPlus Emerges as Complementary Voice in UK Innovation Landscape

In a notable step towards diversifying the UK’s academic research landscape, ten universities have launched a new alliance, ResearchPlus, to provide a collective voice for research-intensive institutions operating outside the established Russell Group. This initiative seeks to enhance the national research system by increasing visibility, influence, and recognition for universities that contribute significantly to the country’s innovation efforts yet often remain underrepresented in policy dialogues.

According to its founding statement, ResearchPlus aims to address the structural gap in representation by offering a unified platform for high-performing research institutions. These universities, while not part of the Russell Group, play critical roles in delivering impactful research and fostering innovation across a range of disciplines and regions. Importantly, the group clarified that its mission is not adversarial; rather, it intends to complement existing organisations within the UK’s research and innovation framework. By fostering collaboration rather than division, ResearchPlus aspires to strengthen the overall fabric of the national research ecosystem.

Kyle, one of the early champions of the initiative, described ResearchPlus as an exciting opportunity for the sector, particularly in supporting the Government’s Plan for Change through stronger university–industry–government ties. The network includes a mix of broad-based and specialist institutions such as Brunel, City, St George’s, Royal Holloway, SOAS, Keele, Essex, Sussex, Hull, Ulster, and the Open University, whose contribution extends through national media partnerships like the BBC.

Although institutions like Aston, Bath, and Reading have not joined ResearchPlus or the Russell Group, they remain active participants in regional research collaborations, including the Midlands Innovation Group, the N8 Research Partnership, and the GW4 alliance, reflecting a broader momentum toward cooperative growth in the UK’s academic landscape. The formation of ResearchPlus reflects a strategic shift towards a more inclusive and representative research culture that values excellence across a wider spectrum of institutions.

Editor’s Note:

The launch of ResearchPlus is an important step in shaping the future of the UK’s research and innovation system. By bringing together universities outside the Russell Group, this new alliance helps expand the national conversation around research and highlights the achievements of a wider range of institutions. At a time when working across disciplines and creating fair, inclusive policies is key to national growth, ResearchPlus offers a much-needed platform for universities that have made strong contributions but often receive less attention. Its focus on working alongside existing groups, not against them, shows a positive and collaborative mindset.

As per Skoobuzz, if this effort reaches its full potential, it could bring fresh ideas to the research world, boost local communities, and support a fairer, more balanced academic environment across the UK.