New Director of Knowledge Exchange and Impact

A key appointment has been announced within the Research and Innovation Service.

New Director of Knowledge Exchange and Impact, Steph Morris

Steph Morris - Director of Knowledge Exchange and Impact.

Steph Morris has been appointed as the new Director of Knowledge Exchange and Impact.

She will be instrumental in the development and implementation of a knowledge exchange strategy and delivery plan to maximise the impact of our portfolio of underpinning research.

Steph said: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to play a leading role in an exciting area of growing importance at Leeds.

“Knowledge exchange and impact are key to the delivery of the University Strategy, and I intend to build on our excellent achievements to date to help our research community make a positive difference in the world.”

She joined the University in October 2019 as Head of Innovation Development, since when she has worked with colleagues across the University to drive engagement with innovation activities, including knowledge transfer partnerships and translational research.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation, Professor Nick Plant, said: “I’m very happy to announce this new role, which is an important statement of the University’s commitment to building and developing our successful knowledge exchange and impact activities, in line with the new University Strategy.

“Steph is the perfect person for this position, and her knowledge, passion and established networks will help her to deliver our ambitions – I look forward to working with Steph in making our shared vision a reality.”

Track record

Steph is a strategic leader with more than 17 years’ experience in innovation and knowledge exchange, gained in roles within central government, innovation agencies and higher education.

Before coming to Leeds, she spent 10 years working in senior strategic roles at Innovate UK, providing analysis and intelligence to direct national innovation funding to areas where it can have the greatest impact.

The Knowledge Exchange and Impact team will work closely with senior leaders across the University, ensuring effective coordination of initiatives and enhancing our reputation, profile and influence at regional, national and international levels.

They aim to build on the University’s strengths in public engagement, influencing policy and working with business to promote best practice and forge and maintain collaborative external relationships to deliver impact from research.

Find out more about our Research and Innovation Service

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