Opening Conference of the V4+WB RMA Network Project: Advancing Research Management and Administration in the V4+WB Region

• October 9, 2023

Exploring the State-of-the-Art and Future of Research Managers

Date: October 17, 2023

Location: Bratislava, Slovakia

The V4+WB RMA Network Plus project is set to launch with an opening conference, highlighting the critical role of Research Managers and Administrators (RMAs) in the Visegrad Four and Western Balkan regions. Scheduled for October 17-18, 2023, in Bratislava, Slovakia, this event, hosted by the Slovak University of Technology’s Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, will gather RMAs from across the region and beyond.

Nataša Jakominić Marot, a member of the OPUS team representing Sveuciliste Rijeka and one of the pilots of the OPUS project, will deliver a speech on “Open Science” and “Research Assessment.” Joining her will be Daniel Spichtinger and Erika Kurucz, who will lead interactive sessions on these crucial topics.

The V4+WB RMA Network Plus project has a clear mission: to strengthen the network of Research Support Professionals, or RMAs, in the V4+WB region. By fostering knowledge exchange and capacity-building activities, it aims to enhance the competitiveness of the Visegrad Four and Western Balkan countries in the field of Research and Innovation.

Key Highlights of the Conference

The conference will focus on several vital aspects, including:

Recognition and Conditions

An in-depth discussion on the state-of-the-art recognition and working conditions of RMAs in the region.

EU-Level Initiatives

Presentations on EU initiatives such as RM ROADMAP and ERA Action 17, shedding light on the opportunities they offer.

Emerald Handbook

Introduction of the Emerald Handbook on RMA globally, with a special focus on chapters covering V4+WB countries and the importance of professionalization, recognition, and training.

Engagement in EU-Funded Projects

Insights into the activities and opportunities for deeper engagement of RMA communities in EU-funded Research & Innovation projects.

Who Should Attend?

This conference is open to Research Managers and Administrators (RMAs), including professionals such as funding and legal advisors, finance managers, research support specialists, innovation managers, and technology transfer experts. It’s also relevant for those working at the interface of science, such as National Contact Points (NCPs), and individuals at other Research Performing Organisations (RPOs), universities, and NGOs based in V4 and WB countries.

Registration

Attendance is free of charge but subject to a selection procedure. Applicants with active contributions to the conference, such as delivering a presentation or leading a workshop, will be eligible for grants and inclusion in the official event/conference programme. These presentations should closely align with the conference’s theme and objectives, acknowledging the support of the International Visegrad Fund.

Get Involved

For further details and the draft agenda, please visit here.

The Opening Conference of the V4+WB RMA Network Project promises to be an essential event for Research Managers and Administrators, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange for a brighter future in research and innovation across the region.

Photo via OMT