Abstract

BESTPRAC is currently organized in two working groups: Working Group 1 (WG1) and Working Group 2 (WG2).

BESTPRAC's WG1, focused on Pre-Award, aims to support research administrators and managers in tasks related to the early stages of research project development. Specifically, its objectives include: Enhancing Proposal Development Skills; Facilitating Exchange of Best Practices; Building a Supportive Network; and Promoting Professional Development. This group is essential for equipping research managers with the skills and connections needed to boost the success rate of funding applications at their institutions. Helping research administrators improve their knowledge and capabilities in identifying funding opportunities, crafting competitive grant proposals, and aligning them with funder requirements.

Joining WG1 offers the opportunity to create a community where Pre-Award professionals can collaborate, seek advice, and share insights on challenges like proposal submission systems, administrative burdens, and managing multidisciplinary teams.

WG2 brings together early-stage and experienced financial administrators from universities and research-driven institutions. This group focuses on networking and sharing best practices to support transnational, externally competitive research projects, particularly those funded by the EU. WG2 provides a platform for research administrators and managers to exchange knowledge and expertise on financial issues. At the recent meeting in Lyon, the group addressed various topics related to Horizon 2020 cost categories, including lump sums and personnel costs, using case studies from different countries. Participants also gained insights into the financial perspective of FP10, payment processes, key project changes, and audit procedures.

Joining WG2 offers members access to a professional network of financial research managers and administrators from 40 countries. Members benefit from: Exchanging best practices across diverse financial research administration systems. Participating in working group meetings focused on financial issues in EU-funded projects. Enhancing their skills and knowledge to better prepare and manage EU-funded research projects.

BESTPRAC organizes two yearly events: one remote and one face-to-face meeting, where their members can share experiences, tools, and strategies for successful management and learn from professional speakers about up to date topics.

If you want to know more about our events, best practices and everything that we can offer you, do not miss our talk.