Case Study: University of Cambridge improves research support and staff engagement with PA Consulting

Managing change in research support clears the way for a more competitive Cambridge

The University of Cambridge worked with PA Consulting to address a change-management challenge in its Research Operations Office. After announcing up to 20 new roles to support Principal Investigators in identifying and targeting funding opportunities, the university needed help communicating the impact on existing staff and managing concerns about job security and role changes.

PA Consulting embedded a team within the ROO for eight weeks to build a case for change, create a visual roadmap, and establish a Change Network with 12 volunteer Change Champions. The approach improved staff engagement, won trust, and secured universal buy-in, turning resistance into support and laying the groundwork for a more competitive Cambridge.

University of Cambridge