ESRC Interim Deputy Director for Research Talent Development
Dr Lucy Thorne is Interim Deputy Director for Research Talent Development at the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).
Lucy leads ESRC’s strategic investment in researcher development, skills and capacity building. This includes ESRC’s investment in postgraduate training, research and methodological skills plus support for researchers across the life course. The role also requires active engagement with the UKRI collective talent strategy.
Before joining ESRC in 2019, Lucy led Lancaster University’s training and professional development for research and academic staff. Prior to this, Lucy held senior management roles in the Faculty of Science and Technology at Lancaster University and at the Learning and Skills Development Agency in London.
Lucy has a PhD in education and postdoctoral research experience from London’s Institute of Education and Middlesex University where her research interest was in doctoral education.
Last updated: 19 May 2025