Doing More with Less: How to Lead High-Impact Research | FANARC Connect Series

The inaugural FANARC Connect Series, held on 28 October 2026, brought together researchers to explore how meaningful, high-impact research can be achieved despite limited funding, infrastructure and institutional resources. Under the theme “Doing More with Less: Leading High-Impact Research in Resource-Constrained Contexts,” the session featured two speakers who shared practical ideas on making the most of available resources, building collaborations and identifying opportunities to strengthen research and academic publishing. Our speakers Dr Temitayo Olayemi Ajayi — University of Ibadan, Nigeria Dr Ajayi, an Associate Professor of Pharmacognosy, shared insights on “Conducting Meaningful Research through Creativity, Collaboration, and Resourcefulness.” Drawing on her expertise in natural product drug discovery and Food as Medicine, her presentation highlighted the value of creativity, partnerships and resourcefulness in generating meaningful research and lasting impact. Dr Chimène Castor — Howard University, United States Dr Castor, an Associate Professor of Nutritional Sciences and global health scholar, presented on “Leveraging Research Opportunities Within Reach.” She explored how researchers can use existing evidence, systematic reviews and meta-analyses to identify research gaps, develop publishable findings and strengthen funding proposals. The session included presentations, questions and answers, and closing remarks outlining plans for future FANARC Connect meetings. The recording offers useful insights for early-career researchers, women academics and research leaders seeking practical ways to strengthen their research, publication opportunities and international collaborations. About FANARC The Female Academic Network for Africa Research and International Collaboration (FANARC) supports women researchers through mentorship, knowledge exchange, research capacity building and international collaboration. To join the network, click here: https://femaleacademicnetwork.com/ #FANARC #FANARCConnectSeries #WomenInResearch #AfricanWomenResearchers #AcademicPublishing #ResearchCollaboration #ResearchImpact #ResearchCapacityBuilding