Sole of an era

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to convey the importance of improvements to Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

Design/methodology/approach: The paper takes the form of a poetic exposition.

Findings: This paper highlights the necessity for alignment of research activity to ERA indicators of quality.

Research limitations/implications: The paper emphasises the importance of research to academics and the need to allocate dedicated time in a school's curriculum.

Originality/value: The paper is a reflective piece written during a research day inspired by proceedings.