This research project considers how to enhance research culture for minoritised academics. One framework that can be designed when considering how to influence culture change is the Culture Cycle, initially devised by Hazel Markus and Shinobu Kitayama in 1994, which describes an individual’s self-identity as reliant on a surrounding cultural group. This framework represents culture “as a multilayered, interacting, dynamic system of ideas, institutions, interactions, and individuals.” 

By thinking about research culture from this cultural psychological perspective, we can use the Cultural Cycle framework to consider how academia is shaped iteratively by ideas, institutions, interactions, and individuals. To implement change within research culture, we therefore need to be thinking about minoritised experiences at these different levels and identify areas of cultural friction to inform cultural interventions. This analysis will allow us to hone in on the important areas for making change, as well as ensuring that this change is meaningful.

To illustrate how the Culture Cycle framework can be used to understand research culture, we have designed an interactive presentation that allows you to explore different aspects of the cycle and how they are interrelated. The cycle is illustrated with quotes from the research project which discuss current culture problems and where they fall on the different layers of the Culture Cycle. 

Where are the current culture clashes for minoritised academics?  How might you change the culture cycle to improve research culture?