Celebrating Excellence: EARMA and INORMS Honour the Awardees of Research Management

The INORMS Congress 2025 in Madrid offered more than just a vibrant exchange of knowledge and ideas — it also provided the perfect stage to celebrate the individuals who embody the values, excellence, and vision of the global research management profession.

This year’s EARMA Recognition Awards and the INORMS Awards for Excellence in Research Management Leadership paid tribute to professionals who have made outstanding contributions at national, European, and international levels.

EARMA Recognition Awards 2025

Each year, EARMA honours individuals who have significantly impacted the Association and the wider research management community. The 2025 awardees exemplify dedication, leadership, and the spirit of service that drives our shared mission.

• Lifetime Achievement Award
  Doris Alexander, University of Dublin, Trinity College
  Doris has been a pillar of the EARMA community for decades. Her leadership, mentorship, and tireless advocacy for research managers have left a lasting legacy within our profession. This award recognises her lifelong commitment to excellence and service.

• Outstanding Contribution Award
  Virág Zsár, Hétfa Research Institute
  A driving force behind impactful initiatives, Virág has consistently gone above and beyond to support policy dialogue, capacity building, and the development of research management both within EARMA and across Europe.

• Voluntary Service Recognition Award
  Cristina Borràs, AGAUR
  Cristina’s dedication as a volunteer reflects the strength of our community’s collaborative spirit. Her contributions have enriched EARMA’s activities and helped strengthen engagement across our network.

INORMS Awards for Excellence in Research Management Leadership

The INORMS Awards celebrate global excellence in leadership across research management societies, recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to professional practice, international collaboration, and innovation in the field.

We are proud to celebrate the 2025 INORMS Award recipients, each nominated by their home associations:

• Julie Bayley (ARMA),
  Director of Research Impact and Culture, Northeastern University London (UK)
  A champion of research impact, Julie’s work bridges academia and policy, redefining how we measure and achieve meaningful societal contributions.

• Jane Holt (ARMS),
  Executive Director: Research Strategy and Services, RMIT University (Australia)
  Jane has led strategic transformations in research support, driving excellence in research development across institutional and national settings.

• Edwin Kanters (ARMS-NL),
  EU Liaison Officer, Utrecht University (Netherlands)
  A passionate advocate for professional recognition, Edwin has been instrumental in advancing collaboration and community building across Europe.

• John Donovan (EARMA),
  Head of Research, Technological University Dublin (Ireland)
  John’s influence on the development of the profession in Europe is profound, combining visionary leadership with deep commitment to training and advocacy.

• Ragnar Lie (NARMA),
  Senior Adviser, Universities Norway (Norway)
  Ragnar has long been a trusted voice in policy, funding, and professional development. His calm leadership has shaped research support at national and international levels.

• Eva Björndal (NCURA),
  Director of Research Award Administration, King’s College London (UK)
  Eva’s work has bridged transatlantic perspectives, contributing to the global professionalisation of research administration.

• Therina Theron (SARIMA),
  Senior Director: Research and Innovation, Stellenbosch University (South Africa)
  Therina has spearheaded research strategy and innovation in Africa, serving as a role model and trailblazer for research leaders across the Global South.

• Mark Hochman (SRAI),
  Director, Research Management Resources (Australia)
  Mark’s lifelong dedication to building research management capacity has empowered institutions and individuals across the world.

As we celebrate these remarkable individuals, we also celebrate the shared values that unite our global community: service, integrity, innovation, and a deep belief in the power of research to make the world a better place.

To all the awardees — congratulations and thank you for your extraordinary contributions to our profession!