Abstract

In today’s interconnected world, impactful research often requires collaboration across geographic boundaries. Funders and research institutions are eager to amplify the impact of their research through collaborations. Collaborations leverage diverse expertise, resources, and perspectives, allowing researchers to tackle complex problems that single institutions or regions might struggle to address alone. However, geographic gaps pose several challenges, from logistical and communication difficulties to navigating differing legal and regulatory frameworks. Challenges posed by differences across geographic areas could be overlooked when working across boundaries. Geographic differences could affect the support provided by Research Managers and Administrators in supporting research across borders. It is important that Research Managers and Administrators collaborating with colleagues oversea understand the conditions under which other institutions work, relate to culturally diverse situations, and devise ways to work effectively to support each other in promoting global research. In bridging geographic gaps, research administrators must manage diverse teams, accommodate varying time zones, and address cultural and language differences among others. Their ability to navigate these complexities is essential for ensuring that geographic distance does not hinder the quality or integrity of the work, and that productive and lasting collaborations are established. Research management professionals can play a pivotal role in overcoming these challenges, ensuring that cross-border collaborations are both productive and ethically sound.
This presentation outlines the important considerations for research administrators when bridging geographic gaps. The presentation aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and support international research collaborations. Participants will learn recognize and understand key geographic indicators and dynamics that influence collaboration and performance in cross border research projects; develop strategies to support the development, implementation, and management of research projects that span multiple geographic regions; and enhance their skills in managing diverse research teams by addressing challenges such as varying time zones, cultural and language differences, and differing legal and regulatory frameworks, to ensure the integrity and quality of international research collaborations.