Abstract

Regardless of whether you are applying for a HORIZON grant in Europe or a NIH funding opportunity in the USA, all research administrators (RAs) and Research Managers and Administrators (RMAs) experience common universal challenges. The policies and compliance restrictions faced may have different structures and terminologies, but the standards of excellence expected of administrators are similarly high, independent of physical location. However, unless institutions have a deep history of global collaboration, there may be limited understanding throughout this community about the nuances of European research administration versus what occurs in the United States, and the pressures associated with the role in countries other than our own.

In this presentation, we will showcase “Sophia” – an RMA in Europe, and “Alice,” her American counterpart. By walking through a ‘day in the life’ of these two dedicated and successful professionals, we will highlight key similarities and differences between the two positions, including specific examples. We will show the time-sensitive components of the day and the importance of acting diligently, and we will play out likely scenarios and outcomes. In doing so, we will demystify the types of compliance issues, government requirements, and internal best practices that are relevant to each side. We will also aim to broaden the understanding of what it takes to work as a high-performing research administrator/RMA in different regions, and to create a platform for further dialog and engagement leading to new collaborations.

Learning Objectives:
• Create awareness about the types of requirements and challenges faced by both European and American research administrators.
• Build a stronger foundational understanding of what it takes to be successful as an RMA in Europe, as well as an RA in the United States.
• Inform conversations that are happening about cross-market collaboration to bring the research administration community closer together.