P11 - Embedding a researcher development focus in an international food and water security research project

International donors spend more than $20 billion a year on capacity development focused programmes, almost a fifth of total overseas development assistance, yet they often do not meet expectations. This has lead some policymakers and development practitioners to question their merit and has encouraged more innovative approaches to achieve positive and long-lasting impact.

Our research aims to explore the impact and efficacy of researcher development delivered through the Building REsearch Capacity for sustainable water and food security In drylands of sub-saharan Africa (BRECcIA) project, funded by the Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF).

We are taking an action research approach to understand the dynamic needs of early career researchers and tailor training, professional development, and mentorship to meet these needs. The Researcher Development Framework (RDF) is being used alongside semi-structured interviews and online surveys to assess how skills and career trajectories develop as a result of the project.