University of Johannesburg Unveils Pure Research Portal to Enhance Academic Collaboration and Innovation
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is proud to announce a state-of-the-art research portal to transform the way it manages, analyses and showcases its research activities. The portal, named Pure, is a comprehensive research information management system designed to help universities, research institutions, and other organisations worldwide manage and disseminate their research outputs and activities and how that impacts communities and the broader society.
The portal enables UJ to centralise its research in one place, providing a comprehensive and accessible platform for researchers, collaborators and stakeholders. It also creates a space whereby all relevant stakeholders, including staff, members of the public, press, government, funding agencies, prospective students and potential collaborators may explore UJ’s research and gain in-depth insights into their collaboration networks, scientific and societal impact and visibility, as well as the extent to which their research is being cited, mentioned in the press and shared on social media.
“I am immensely proud that we have launched this incredibly innovative portal, which underscores the university’s commitment to driving impactful research and a robust research environment, enhancing global visibility,” says Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, Vice-Chancellor and Principal. “Among the many benefits that Elsevier’s Pure brings to UJ is the opportunity to empower our staff and students as ambassadors of the university in that they now have a ‘one-stop shop’ to which they can direct anyone who wishes to know more about our work.”
At the time of publication, over 380 UJ research profiles had been created. Implementation of the portal is ongoing, with new scholars, publications and other content being added daily. The Research Development and Support Division (RDS) would begin working directly with the faculties, including the College and the Business School (CBE) and the Johannesburg Business School (JBS), to obtain the necessary information to create profiles for all academic staff.
Says Prof Sarah Gravett, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation Research: “Within the bustling corridors of academia, scholars driven by curiosity and innovation always strive to push new frontiers of knowledge and unravel complex issues affecting humanity. However, a common challenge remains the seamless dissemination and collaboration of their research work. The new portal offers a platform for scholars to interact, share, and advance their collective knowledge.”