Abstract

This session has global reach by unpacking and focusing on a pivotal aspect of Research Management Association (RMA) sustainability – professional development activities, from an LMIC perspective.  Forged by INORMS Council into the Hiroshima Statement in 2021, and the basis for an international framework for RMA conduct, the third principle (Professional) establishes that ‘RMAs have a responsibility to develop their knowledge and skills, and to mentor and train future RMA professionals and researchers’.  

The session will offer new insights and share how this third principle is perceived through the lens of RMAs based in LMICs and which has practical lessons for all RMAs across the world.  

The poster will cover the results of an in-depth survey on the third principle, following a dedicated INORMS 2023 pre-conference workshop held with senior leaders of RMAs and experienced Research Managers from LMICs spanning the African, Caribbean and Asian subcontinents.  

The LMIC orientated survey conducted in 2023/24 will illustrate the perspectives of RMA leaders, their interpretation of the third principle, their take on the institutional implications and insights in promoting and implementing the third principle.  
 
The poster will flag up new recommendations and a call for action that establishes meaningful actions to operationalise and optimise the third principle for the global RMA community beyond even LMICs.  

More explicitly, the poster/session will offer conference delegates unique insights on the viewpoints and improvements on the training and development dimension within RMAs by addressing  

-the practical state of understanding of the third principle;
-the common and unique issues, challenges and implications in applying it;
-proposals and ideas to overcome the barriers and obstacles;
-ways to adopt the third principle including
-suggestions on accredited training programmes and mentoring;
-articulated views on future and key skills including AI
-some practical tips and techniques to secure institutional buy-in;
-viewpoints on professional standards and the development of a ‘body of knowledge’
-the capacity for collaboration and sharing knowledge and resources  
-ideas to promote the professionalisation of research management globally