Abstract

The recent association of countries like New Zealand and Canada with Horizon Europe has opened new avenues for international collaboration. However, harnessing these opportunities can be challenging due to the relative lack of knowledge about EU funding schemes in these new countries. Research officers play a pivotal role in driving researcher engagement and supporting the integration of new Horizon Europe partners, fostering impactful partnerships across continents.

At Ghent University, the EU Team has strategically strengthened international collaborations under Horizon Europe. This includes selecting international partners with strong research track records and promoting Ghent University’s research capabilities globally. Through matchmaking events and Erasmus staff exchanges, the EU Team has established platforms for researchers to connect with potential collaborators and build new partnerships.

The EU Team also provides comprehensive support throughout the collaboration process, from identifying partners to assisting with proposal development and offering ongoing guidance. This proactive approach has facilitated several successful projects, positioning Ghent University as a key player within the Horizon Europe ecosystem.

By sharing these experiences and strategies, we aim to offer practical guidance to the broader EARMA community, enhancing research management practices and maximizing the impact of international collaborations within Horizon Europe.