European Association of Research Managers and Administrators – EARMA

Nik Claesen

Nik Claesen

Nik Claesen is a seasoned professional with more than 8 years of experience as the Managing Director of the European Association of Research Managers and Administrators (EARMA). His mission is to enhance the quality of research support across Europe by establishing a network for professional development and best practice sharing.

Blanka Csite

Blanka Csite

Blanka Csite is a Policy and Project Officer at EARMA, supporting policy and advocacy initiatives and contributing to EU-funded projects that strengthen the professional development and recognition of research managers. She brings over four years of experience in R&I policy, stakeholder engagement, and project coordination, and holds a Master’s degree in International Public Service Relations.

Teodora Konach

Teodora Konach

Teodora Konach is the Head of Professional Development at EARMA. She is leading the team responsible for the professional development and recognition initiatives and programmes and the EU-funded projects. Her background is in legal and cultural studies. Since 2019 Teodora cooperates as an external expert and evaluator with the European Commission’s Research Executive Agency (REA), the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) and the Council of Europe.

Lorenzo Molina

Lorenzo Molina

Lorenzo Molina is an EU Projects Officer and Research Analyst at EARMA. He is involved in the design and implementation of initiatives and programmes focused on the professional development and recognition of research managers. He also plays an active role in the management and coordination of EU-funded projects in areas such as research management, ethics, research integrity, and sustainability. He holds an academic background in International and Diplomatic Affairs as well as International Economics.

Janina Bau

Janina Bau

Janina Bau is an EU Projects Officer and Research Analyst, with a background in social studies and linguistics. At the European Association of Research Managers and Administrators (EARMA), she is involved in several EU-funded projects. She studied European Studies, with a focus on English and Sociology in Germany and Sweden, Political Science in Belgium, and Cultural Studies in the U.S.

Francisco España

Francisco España

Francisco España is a Policy and Communications Officer at EARMA, where he leads strategic communication, digital engagement, and policy-oriented dissemination across projects. He supports EU policy alignment, develops outreach platforms, and fosters collaboration with internal teams and external stakeholders to strengthen visibility, engagement, and impact.