Synergetic initiatives
The EURESTMA (European Research and Transfer Management) programme is a comprehensive certification initiative designed to professionalize research and transfer management across Europe. Organized by the University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück in collaboration with leading academic institutions, it combines two on-site weeks in Osnabrück, Germany, and Brussels, Belgium, with self-study components. The programme aims to equip research managers with up-to-date tools and methods, foster a pan-European professional network, and enhance institutional strategies in response to evolving research policies.
The project foRMAtion developed innovative tools, educational and training methods for the empowerment of students as potential Research Managers through an educational module and mentorship programme. These activities provided the necessary knowledge & skills (both soft & hard) to support their career development. By doing so, foRMAtion aimed to make the profession of research management and administration attractive and raising awareness on the importance of RMAs, contributing to the preparation and implementation of excellent European educational and research projects.
RItrainPlus brings together research infrastructures, core facilities, business management schools, and European universities to enhance the management and operation of scientific facilities across Europe. Its objectives include the development of continuous professional development (CPD) courses; establishing a European School for Management of Research Infrastructures (ESMRI) to provide a sustainable foundation for training highly qualified personnel in managing complex scientific operations; and creating a Community of Practice to facilitate peer learning and knowledge sharing among professionals in the field. By implementing these initiatives, RItrainPlus aims to professionalize research infrastructure management, thereby enhancing the efficiency and long-term value of scientific facilities in Europe.
CARDEA (Career Acknowledgement for Research Managers) is an EU-funded project led by University College Cork to enhance the visibility and professional development of research managers in Europe. It aims to create a European Competence Framework (RM Comp), develop a Capacity Maturity Model to assess institutional activities, and establish a training and networking hub. CARDEA seeks to standardize skills, support career progression, and strengthen the role of research managers in the EU.
The project seeks to develop an objective tool—the Research Administration Professional IDentity Values Scale (RAPIDS)—to measure the professional identity of Research Administrators (RAs) globally. This will enhance recognition of the profession and support its growth. Using a mixed-methods approach, including literature review, interviews, focus groups, and surveys, the project aims to create and validate RAPIDS. The scale will help current and aspiring RAs, professional associations like NCURA, and policymakers better understand and strengthen the field's core values and identity.
MAPIT – M(obilizing) A(dvanced) P(artnerships) for Digital I(nnovation) and T(ransformation) – bridges the gap between innovative SMEs, research entities, and European R&I networks, fostering sustainable international partnerships. By establishing digital innovation centers and upskilling R&I managers, MAPIT strengthens university-industry collaborations, promotes internationalisation, and empowers research entities to thrive within Horizon Europe and the European Research Area.
The project V4+WB RMA Network Plus aims to further reinforce the network of Research Support Professionals, or in short, Research Managers and Administrators (RMAs). Through intensified knowledge exchange and capacity building activities it will contribute to the increased competitiveness of the Visegrad Four and Western Balkan countries in Research and Innovation.