Ms Bridget Mellifont

Director

Biography

Background

As Director of the Future Leaders Fellows Development Network within Edinburgh Research Office at the University of Edinburgh, I lead the strategic development, management and delivery of the Network’s programmes.

Having been part of the Development Network since its inception, my work has spanned research leadership development, strategic programme design and innovation. I contributed to the successful bid for Contract 1 in 2020 and have played a central role in the design, delivery and continued development of the Network. Previous roles within the Network include Deputy Director and Programmes Manager, and Director of Additional Programming.

My experience at the University of Edinburgh began in 2019 as a Policy and Project Officer in the Office of the Senior Vice Principal for Research and Innovation, followed by joining the Development Network in 2020 within the Institute for Academic Development (IAD). The Network subsequently moved to Edinburgh Research Office in 2025.

During a period of leadership absence in 2021–22, I led the Network through a significant period of development, maintaining continuity of programme delivery while supporting the development and launch of the PATHWAYS programme and Contract 2.

In my current role, the focus is on ensuring high-quality, impactful provision for Future Leaders Fellows. This includes oversight of programme design, coaching, events and additional programming, alongside working closely with partners and the Fellowship community to strengthen the Network’s reach, impact and contribution to research leadership development.

Qualifications

Bridget holds a Master of Philosophy from the University of Queensland (2016), a Certificate in Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning from the University of Wolverhampton (2025), and a Certificate in Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning from INTRAC (2026).

Responsibilities & affiliations

Member of the Association for Research Managers and Administrators (ARMA).

I lead the Future Leaders Development Network team, in the Strategy, Development and Impact Directorate.

As Director of the Future Leaders Fellows Development Network within Edinburgh Research Office, I lead the strategic development, management and delivery of the Network and its programmes. Working with partners and the Future Leaders Fellows community, I am responsible for the Network’s strategic development and partnerships, ensuring that our programmes respond to the evolving needs of Future Leaders Fellows and contribute to a strong and inclusive research culture.

For more information about ERO Directorates and teams visit About Us | Edinburgh Research Office

This article was published on