Building the EARMA Conference 2026 Programme in Utrecht

On October 15–16, 2025, the Conference Programme Expert Group (CPEG) and the EARMA team gathered in Utrecht, host city of next year’s EARMA Annual Conference, to shape the 2026 Conference programme.

This year’s call for abstracts drew an outstanding response from the community, with over 500 submissions covering every aspect of research management. Across two productive days, the group reviewed, discussed, and curated these proposals to create a programme that is balanced, inspiring, and representative of the diversity and expertise within the EARMA community.

The discussions went beyond scheduling and selection. Together, the team explored how the programme can best reflect this year's theme, “Empowering Research Managers and Administrators as Leaders for Impact”, while also promoting cross-disciplinary exchange and fostering meaningful connections among attendees.

The visit to the upcoming conference venue added a tangible sense of excitement. Walking through the spaces where next year’s sessions and networking moments will unfold helped bring the 2026 Conference to life: from the first keynote to the closing reflections.

This milestone reflects the collective effort, dedication, and vision of everyone involved. The CPEG members and EARMA staff all contributed their expertise and enthusiasm to ensure the conference continues to grow as a space for learning, sharing, and collaboration.

Looking ahead, December 1 marks the next key date on the road to Utrecht: Early Bird registration opens, alongside the preliminary programme. We can’t wait to welcome the community in May for another unforgettable EARMA Conference, this time in the heart of Utrecht.