Abstract

Collaboration between RMAs across institutions and borders can enhance professional development, improve research funding competitiveness, and strengthen institutional networks. The Euroleague for Life Sciences (ELLS) unites 14 leading universities (in Europe and beyond) and aims to promote sustainable development via education and research. The ELLS Research Support Office (RSO) Team has collaborated closely over many years and developed several successful initiatives that demonstrate the power of transnational cooperation, including:

• “Navigating Brussels” Course: This highly popular and successful training programme, organised by the ELLS RSO team and held annualy in Brussels since 2018, has been a game-changer for early-career researchers from ELLS universities.
• Best practice exchange and professional development: Years of regular digital collaboration meetings of the ELLS RSO Team evolved into a 1-week workshop in Sweden in spring 2024 and a planned 1-week workshop in France in summer 2025 - both supported by Erasmus funding.

This discussion table will explore how RMAs can foster and sustain transnational collaborations in research support. With the ELLS RSO Team as a case study, we will discuss key challenges and opportunities, including joint training programmes, best practice exchanges, and sustainable networking. We invite you to share your own experiences, challenges, and strategies for successful cross-institutional collaboration. Key questions include:

• What are the biggest challenges in developing long-term transnational collaborations in research support?
• What best practices from your institution could contribute to a transnational network?
• How can institutions ensure sustainability and cost-effectiveness in these collaborations?

Join us for a lively exchange of ideas and practical insights on building strong international partnerships in research management.