Articulating Research Impact

Giovanna Lima, Lima & Carvalho Associates, Ireland

Monday 16 March 2026, 10.00 AM

ICMAB - Sala d'Actes Carles Miravitlles and ONLINE (Register here)

Abstract

Understanding, articulating, and demonstrating research impact has become increasingly important across scientific fields. This workshop introduces researchers to key concepts, frameworks, and practical tools to identify their impactful activities and translate them into clear, evidence‑based narratives. Through interactive exercises and guided reflection, participants will explore different dimensions and types of impact, map their activities to outcomes, and consider appropriate qualitative and quantitative evidence. The session also highlights how impact can be communicated in audience‑focused formats, including narrative CVs and institutional reporting. By the end of the workshop, researchers will have greater clarity about their “impact identity” and concrete strategies to develop compelling, credible impact narratives for diverse purposes, including funding applications, evaluations, collaboration building, and engagement with society.

Short bio

Dr Giovanna Lima is a change practitioner who works with advancing societal impact in research, education, and engagement; academic culture; and academic assessment. Dr Lima currently serves as the Program Manager for the Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), a global initiative that campaigns for and supports the reform of research(er) assessment practices. Prior to joining DORA, Dr Lima served as Senior Project Officer for Societal Impact and Recognition & Rewards at Erasmus University Rotterdam. Earlier, as Trinity College Dublin’s first Research Impact Officer, she developed the Researcher Impact Framework, which has been translated into French, Portuguese, and Spanish. With a PhD and master’s in public administration, she was also research consultant for The Economist Impact and held a number of senior public management roles in Brazil.