Technology Scouting
Technology Scouting is the applied ability to identify, assess, and assimilate new technologies for integration into Research and Development processes. This entails staying abreast of latest technological advancements, and evaluating their potential benefit or impact on existing projects. Effective scouting can drive innovation, enhance productivity, and position the organization as a forward-thinking leader within its industry.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are aware of new technologies relevant to your area and can recognize basic opportunities for their use in Research and Development projects. You monitor updates or trends as they arise, sharing findings with your team when appropriate. This helps you contribute to ongoing discussions about potential improvements or innovations.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to identify and share information about new technologies relevant to your R&D projects. You seek guidance to assess their potential and understand how they might fit within current processes. Your efforts help your team stay informed and encourage discussion about possible improvements.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are proactive in scanning for new and emerging technologies relevant to your R&D projects, systematically evaluating their value and feasibility. You reliably recommend technologies that align with project and organizational goals. Your work helps your team adopt innovations that improve outcomes and strengthen our competitive position.
Technical Report Writing
Technical Report Writing is the ability to convey experimental procedures and findings in a clear, coherent fashion. It involves meticulously documenting all aspects of a research inquiry or development process while ensuring the information is accessible to diverse audiences. Effective technical reports enable research teams to track progress, make informed decisions, and justify their methods and results.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to organize and record key steps and findings from your research or development work in simple, clear language. You use provided templates and follow guidance to ensure your reports are complete and understandable. This helps your team keep track of progress and builds a reliable record of your work.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to draft technical reports that describe your research activities and findings, following set formats and guidelines. You organize information clearly and include essential details so others can understand your work. Your reports support team discussions and help ensure your methods and results are recorded accurately.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to write clear, well-structured technical reports that accurately document research methods, data, and outcomes. You adapt your style for different audiences and ensure your reports provide enough detail for colleagues to follow or replicate your work. Your reports help your team make decisions and demonstrate the value of your R&D projects.
Research Funding Proposal Writing
Research Funding Proposal Writing is the ability to craft compelling, succinct proposals for research funding within the field of Research and Development. It involves understanding the requirements of funding bodies, presenting clear research objectives and delivering a structured plan of action. This capability can directly influence the financial support a project receives and therefore, its potential success or failure.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to assist with the basic preparation of research funding proposals by gathering information and following set templates within your team. You understand the broad goals of your project and the general requirements of funding bodies, but rely on guidance for structure and content. Your work helps ensure that proposals are complete and meet minimum submission standards.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to contribute to sections of research funding proposals, following established templates and guidance from others. You identify key requirements set by funding bodies and help present research aims and basic project plans. Your input supports the creation of clear, cohesive proposals that meet basic expectations in R&D settings.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to write clear, structured research funding proposals that meet the expectations of a range of funding bodies. You align your proposals with the strategic priorities of both your organization and the funder, helping secure support for complex research and development projects. Your proposals contribute directly to the success and financial stability of your team or department.
Research Ethics Compliance
Research Ethics Compliance is the aptitude to adhere to ethical guidelines during investigations. It encompasses the proficiency to understand, interpret, and apply ethical principles and legislation to all types of R&D work. Thus, it reinforces trust, safeguards participants and upholds the integrity of research.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are aware of basic ethical principles that guide research and development activities. You can recognize when ethical guidelines apply and know to seek guidance or approval before starting work involving data, participants, or sensitive materials. This helps protect people and ensures your research meets expected ethical standards.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to recognize and apply ethical guidelines relevant to R&D activities, with guidance from others. You can identify basic ethical risks and know when to seek support to address them. Your approach contributes to safer and more reliable research outcomes.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to interpret and apply relevant ethical standards across a range of R&D projects, identifying and addressing potential risks. You respond confidently to evolving compliance requirements, engaging others to promote ethical research practices. This builds trust in your work and helps protect the reputation and integrity of your organization’s research.
Research Design
Research Design is the systematic approach undertaken to plan, structure and execute research activities within an R&D context. It guides the selection of sources, data collection methods, and analysis techniques, demonstrating the ability to provide valuable insights whilst mitigating potential biases. This capability is pivotal in producing precise, credible, and replicable research outcomes, driving innovation and development.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to follow set research plans and apply basic research methods within your project team. You rely on guidance to select sources and collect straightforward data, building your familiarity with standard R&D processes. This helps ensure your contributions are reliable and support more experienced researchers in achieving project objectives.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to contribute to research projects by following established research design processes and using set methods for data collection and analysis. You work under guidance to select sources and help ensure the research plan is clear and fair. Your reliable support helps deliver accurate findings and adds value to your R&D team.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to independently design research projects suited to a range of R&D goals, carefully choosing appropriate methods for data collection and analysis. You adapt your approach to the project's needs, anticipating and addressing potential biases. Your work helps ensure research outcomes are both reliable and useful to your organization.
Literature Review
Literature Review is the systematic method of elucidating, examining, and interpreting existing material, contextually relevant to a particular research problem. It assembles, collates and synthesises knowledge, pinpointing patterns, contradictions and gaps in the field. This process substantiates new R&D efforts, informing decisions, and shaping innovations thereby contributing to the continuing advancement of the sector.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to locate, read, and summarise relevant literature linked to your research problem. You gather information from reliable sources and identify basic themes or trends, helping your team build an initial understanding of the topic. Your efforts support informed research decisions and lay groundwork for more advanced analysis.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to locate and summarise relevant literature to support your research and development work, identifying key findings and recurring themes. You can recognize obvious gaps or contradictions in current knowledge, but may need guidance to synthesise complex or conflicting sources. Your reviews help lay the groundwork for informed decision-making within your team.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to independently gather, assess and summarise relevant literature to support your R&D projects. You consistently identify key trends, gaps and differing perspectives, integrating these insights to inform your research direction. Your thorough reviews help shape project decisions and add value to ongoing innovation efforts.
Prototype Development
Prototype Development is the process of creating a preliminary model of a product or system to validate and refine the concept. In a research and development context, it involves using scientific and technical knowledge to design and test prototypes. The aim is to enhance innovation, improve functionality and ensure the feasibility of mass production. Effective prototype development contributes to more efficient and economical production processes, optimizing the product's market success.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to assist in the creation of simple prototypes by following established instructions and using basic tools. You support the research and development team by helping to test ideas and record straightforward results. Your contribution helps to gather essential information for further improvements and learning.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to assist with building and testing simple prototypes under close guidance. You follow set processes to help trial ideas, noting what works and where improvements might be made. Your involvement helps the team gather useful feedback for ongoing development.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to design and build working prototypes that address key technical and user requirements in research and development projects. You adapt your approach based on test results and feedback, refining prototypes to improve performance and feasibility. Your work helps your team make informed decisions and move promising concepts closer to commercial production.
Pilot Testing and Trials
Pilot Testing and Trials is the expertise in executing preliminary tests on products, services, or processes within R&D functions. It involves constructing mock scenarios to evaluate the viability, strength, and potential improvement opportunities. Primarily, it enhances the quality of R&D outputs before a wider-scale implementation, ensuring efficacy, efficiency, and reduced risk.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to assist with basic pilot testing activities under close guidance, such as preparing materials or collecting simple data. You follow set instructions to help run small-scale trials of new products, services, or processes in R&D. Your support helps ensure early-stage ideas are checked for obvious issues before moving forward.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to assist in setting up and running pilot tests for new products, services, or processes within the R&D team. You work under guidance to collect data, follow test protocols, and document observations. Your actions help identify initial issues and provide useful feedback to refine future testing phases.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to design and run structured pilot tests that accurately reflect real-world R&D conditions. You gather and interpret data to identify issues and recommend practical improvements before wider rollout. Your approach increases confidence in project outcomes and helps your team avoid costly mistakes.
Peer Review Engagement
Peer Review Engagement is active participation in evaluating the quality and credibility of colleagues' work within research and development contexts. It involves critical analysis, constructive feedback and maintaining objectivity. It fosters a culture of collaboration and ongoing learning, driving continuous improvement and innovation integrity.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are learning to review colleagues’ work by following clear guidelines and asking clarifying questions. You participate in basic peer review activities within your team, with support from others, focusing on being respectful and fair. Through this, you help build trust and develop your confidence in research and development settings.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to contribute to peer review by offering thoughtful observations and seeking clarification where needed. You engage constructively with colleagues’ research, aiming to understand key points and provide balanced feedback. Your involvement helps build your confidence and supports a positive, collaborative culture in your team.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are consistently involved in peer review, offering balanced, evidence-based feedback to colleagues’ research and development projects. You actively question methods and results, helping your team refine ideas and uphold rigorous standards. Your contributions build trust and help drive better outcomes across your projects.
Data Collection Planning
Data Collection Planning is the process of designing and coordinating methodologies for gathering and analyzing data in a research and development environment. It requires adeptness in research strategies, logistical coordination, and understanding data relevance. Effective planning enhances the quality of research findings and streamlines the development process.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are learning how to follow clear instructions for preparing and organizing data collection in research and development projects. You support your team by helping with basic tasks, such as gathering information and setting up equipment. Your careful work ensures data is recorded accurately and helps maintain the quality of the research process.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to support the planning of data collection by following established methods and guidelines within your team. You contribute to organizing data sources and help ensure information is gathered accurately for research and development projects. Your efforts help the team collect useful data, building the foundation for stronger research outcomes.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to design and coordinate data collection plans that align with research objectives and project timelines. You select suitable methods, manage resources, and adapt to changing requirements in a research and development setting. Your approach results in reliable data that supports sound analysis and decision-making.
Knowledge Translation
Knowledge Translation is the iterative, collaborative process of interpreting and communicating research findings within a specific context. In R&D, it involves the accurate transmission of complex scientific concepts to diverse stakeholders. This ability not only empowers decision making, but also fosters collaboration, ultimately accelerating innovation.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are beginning to recognize the importance of sharing research findings clearly within your team. You attempt to explain basic scientific ideas in a way others can understand, but may require guidance. This helps build trust and ensures everyone starts with the same understanding in R&D projects.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to interpret and share research findings within your immediate team, using clear and straightforward language. You seek support when unsure and tailor messages to basic stakeholder needs. Your efforts help your team understand key ideas and start applying them to R&D projects.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to clearly interpret and explain complex research findings to colleagues and stakeholders outside your field. You tailor your communication to the audience, ensuring scientific concepts are understood and can inform decisions. Your efforts help bridge gaps between teams, driving collaboration and practical innovation in R&D.
Intellectual Property Awareness
Intellectual Property Awareness is the understanding and recognition of the importance of intellectual property rights in the research and development context. It involves the ability to identify, protect, and manage patents, copyrights, and trademarks relevant to new and existing innovations. The impact is preserving proprietary advances, fostering invention, and ensuring legal compliance.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are aware that intellectual property rights, such as patents, copyrights, and trademarks, exist and are important in Research and Development. You recognize basic situations where these rights might apply to your work or your team's work. This helps you avoid unintentional misuse and supports the protection of new ideas.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to recognize the value of intellectual property within your research projects and can identify basic types such as patents, copyrights, and trademarks. You seek guidance on how to protect ideas and respect the intellectual property of others in your work. This helps you contribute to innovative outcomes while reducing risk to your team and organization.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to recognize when intellectual property is created in your research and development work and actively take steps to protect it. You understand the procedures for documenting, applying for, and managing patents, copyrights, and trademarks. This allows your team to safeguard innovations and reduce risk of legal or commercial loss.
Innovation Pipeline Management
Innovation Pipeline Management is the aptitude to systematically oversee incoming, in-development, and matured innovative projects. Within a Research and Development context, it covers the effective handling of promising ideas to their successful implementation. This capability ensures an organized flow of innovation, accelerating company growth and maintaining competitive advantage.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are learning how to spot new ideas and support their early progress within the R&D environment. You help track projects and follow established processes to keep innovation efforts organized. Your actions make it easier for the team to move ideas forward and keep projects on course.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are learning to track and organize innovative projects as they progress through the pipeline. You support your team by helping to record project details, monitor next steps, and spot early challenges in research and development work. Your efforts make it easier for others to keep projects moving and build a reliable foundation for future innovations.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to manage a portfolio of innovation projects at different stages, ensuring priorities and resources are aligned within R&D. You track progress, identify and address risks, and support teams to move ideas from concept to real-world application. Your approach keeps the innovation pipeline flowing smoothly and drives valuable outcomes for the business.
Impact Evaluation of Research
Impact Evaluation of Research' is the process of assessing the effectiveness and influence of research initiatives within a Research and Development context. This includes the ability to establish appropriate metrics and methodologies, and then objectively analyze the data. It will determine the contributions made to scientific advancements, industry innovations or broader societal improvements.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are learning to recognize why it is important to evaluate the impact of research within Research and Development. You follow established methods to help collect and organize simple data under guidance. Your work supports others to measure how research contributes to scientific, industry, or community outcomes.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to assist in gathering and organizing information to help measure the outcomes of research activities. You follow established methods to collect data and contribute to basic analysis, helping your team understand if research is meeting its intended goals. Your input supports better decisions about future research directions.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to select and apply suitable metrics and methods to evaluate the outcomes of research projects in your area. You can independently analyze data to judge the effectiveness and value of research in driving scientific or industry progress. Your work helps teams and stakeholders understand the real-world impact of their research efforts.
Hypothesis Formulation
Hypothesis Formulation is the ability to devise investigable propositions for Research and Development. This capability incorporates critical thinking to identify gaps in current knowledge, proposing explanations or predictions. Mastery of hypothesis formulation can streamline research, ensuring efficient use of resources and facilitating innovative discoveries.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to state simple research questions and suggest early ideas for investigation with guidance. You draw on existing information to identify basic gaps or opportunities relevant to your project. Your contribution helps clarify the initial focus for research and supports more experienced team members in refining hypotheses.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to help shape straightforward hypotheses with some guidance, drawing on available information and input from others. You contribute by identifying clear research questions and making simple predictions. This supports your team’s R&D efforts as you start to connect theory and practice in your work.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to consistently develop clear, testable hypotheses that address identified gaps in research or product development. You draw on current evidence and team input to craft propositions that direct research efforts efficiently. This enables your team to focus resources, reduce wasted effort, and progress towards innovative outcomes.
Experimental Methodology
Experimental Methodology is the essential process for conducting reliable and accurate research and development (R&D). This capability comprises a proficiency in designing, organizing, and conducting experiments. An individual with this capability creates robust, flexible strategies, leading to impactful pioneering results and driving innovation forward.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to follow established experimental procedures under guidance, helping to set up and carry out basic experiments. You carefully record results and observe safety practices, ensuring data is collected accurately. Your contributions support your team’s ability to test ideas and move early-stage R&D projects forward.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to design and carry out simple experiments, following established methods with guidance. You help set up tests and collect data, learning to notice factors that affect results. Your work supports more experienced team members and builds your confidence in applying experimental approaches to R&D problems.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to design and run experiments that are methodical, reliable, and well-documented in an R&D setting. You apply experimental methods to address complex technical questions, ensuring results can be trusted and built upon. Your careful approach helps your team generate valuable data and make confident decisions.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
Data Analysis and Interpretation is the ability to observe and dissect research data to derive meaningful insights. In the context of Research and Development, it involves selecting, manipulating and studying experimental data, as well as applying statistical models. This capability shapes the innovative outcomes, driving forward-focused decisions and underpinning robust, evidence-based strategies.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to follow basic data collection and analysis steps with guidance, using standard tools and methods relevant to Research and Development. You accurately record findings, check simple patterns, and share results with your team. Your work supports evidence-based decisions by providing reliable data for others to interpret further.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to gather and organize research data using basic tools and methods. You begin to identify patterns and trends with guidance, applying straightforward analysis within standard research and development projects. Your work helps contribute to team insights, supporting informed decisions and building your analytical foundation.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to independently analyze and interpret complex research data sets using established statistical methods. You select appropriate tools and approaches to draw reliable conclusions that inform R&D decisions. Your work ensures that projects are based on clear evidence, strengthening the quality and direction of innovation.
Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration is the ability to unite varied academic disciplines for joint research efforts. It requires comprehensive knowledge and understanding across multiple fields, combined with the capability to facilitate productive exchanges. This promotes innovation in Research and Development, fostering knowledge acquisition that advances overall project outcomes.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are open to working with colleagues from different disciplines in research projects. You share information and listen to ideas from others, recognizing the value of diverse perspectives. This helps you build a broad understanding of how teamwork across fields can improve R&D outcomes.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to work with colleagues from different fields on research tasks, showing openness to their perspectives. You contribute ideas and listen to insights outside your direct area, asking questions to better understand how disciplines connect. Your efforts start to help your team find new angles and solutions in R&D projects.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to bring together people from different disciplines to work on shared research objectives. You confidently share knowledge and encourage open discussion to solve problems as a team. Your efforts help generate fresh ideas and move projects towards more innovative research outcomes.
