Hi I’m Sarah McLusky, the founder of Research Adjacent and host of the Research Adjacent podcast.

It all started back in 2022 when I was asked to organise an ‘alternative careers’ panel for an Early Career Researchers event. I lined up a project manager, someone in publishing, a funding person, and myself. I needed a name for the panel and ‘Research-Adjacent Careers’ popped into my head.

After the event I couldn’t get the name out of my head. For a long time I’d wanted to do something which would raise the profile of people working in the research world, but don’t actually do research. These roles are the glue which hold everything together, but are too often invisible and undervalued. I decided to start a podcast which would shine a light on these brilliant people and what they do. Of course I decided to call it Research Adjacent.

The podcast has birthed a movement. People regularly get in touch to tell me that they feel seen in a way they never have before. Some are embracing being research-adjacent, others are using it as permission to challenge the status quo and push for change. As Research Adjacent evolves I can now offer more direct support to research-adjacent folks whether they are employed, self-employed or just exploring their options. You’ll find out more on the Support page.

You can find out more about the story behind Research Adjacent in these blog posts and podcast interviews.

Proudly research-adjacent since 1999

So what about me? I have been ‘research-adjacent’ for over 20 years. I have worked for universities and research projects, science centres and museums, learned societies and education providers. Although I have a PhD in plant pathology/biochemistry my real passion is helping people to shine. I spent much of my career helping researchers and research shine. Now it’s time for research-adjacent professionals to shine. I am a qualified teacher and a specialist in research communications, events and engagement. I have a talent for seeing the big picture and a gift for making things happen. I create and hold spaces where people can connect with each other and with themselves.

I’m originally from Scotland, but I now live in beautiful Whitley Bay in North East England with my partner, daughter, dog and two cats. I am also a yoga teacher, festival go-er, mediocre runner, and sea swimmer.

Are you interested in working together? Please do get in touch.