What’s your job title and how long have you worked at Loughborough?

I’m the Open Research Manager for Data and Methods and have been here a year.

Tell us what a typical day looks like for you?

My working day starts with checking what has come in overnight. I am responsible for supporting research in sharing non-traditional research outputs – data, methods, software. Usually, these are submitted directly to the Research Repository, where I find and curate them. Sometimes it’s an easy task; others are more complex, requiring a conversation with the researcher. I also support the creation of data management plans, a part of most funding proposals.

Once I’ve checked in with the new tasks, I turn my attention to one of several projects I’m working on to better the service of the Library’s Open Research Development and Discovery Team. Currently, I’m reviewing the policies relating to my area of work, exploring accessibility solutions and developing a training programme for doctoral students.

I end my day by checking in on my communication channels, as part of my role entails advocating for Open Research practices. I maintain a Twitter account, a blog and a monthly newsletter.

What’s your favourite project you’ve worked on?

I’m currently curating a project – the National Covid-19 Memorial Archive – a collection of photographs collected by Rob Tovey during and after the pandemic. Seeing all the ways that we connected with each other, and remembering loved ones has helped me heal from what I experienced during that time.

What is your proudest moment at Loughborough?

A leading researcher in my field recently asked me to guest lecture for his master’s students, which was a highlight of my career.

Tell us something you do outside of work?

I crochet obsessively.

What is your favourite quote?

“Life is not a problem to be solved, but a mystery to be lived” – Joseph Campbell

If you would like to feature in ‘5 Minutes With’, or you work with someone who you think would be great to include, please email Soph Dinnie at S.Dinnie@lboro.ac.uk.