RESIN White Paper on Research IT Competency

The National Forum for Research Services and Infrastructure (RESIN) brings together research support staff, research IT staff and library staff working in research support from Irish Universities, Technological Universities, other Research Performing Organisations (RPOs) and Research Funding Organisations (RFOs). This white paper explores the essential role of Research IT within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), highlighting its critical functions in advancing research capabilities, enhancing collaboration, and ensuring compliance with ethical and legal standards. Research IT encompasses specialised tools, services, and infrastructure to support the research lifecycle, including high-performance computing, data storage, software development, and cybersecurity. The paper examines the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Research IT in the Irish context and provides recommendations for improving organisational models, service provision, and training pathways. Key strategies include leveraging maturity assessment models, like the RESIN Research Support Maturity Assessment, to evaluate institutional readiness, fostering collaboration through national and international infrastructures, and addressing challenges such as resource constraints, skill gaps, and organisational silos. The document underscores the importance of a tailored, scalable approach to meet diverse institutional needs while promoting shared services and innovation. If you have found this document useful, and have any questions or comments, please email [email protected]