European Commission launched RM Comp

On January 27, 2025, the European Commission unveiled RM Comp, the European Competence Framework for Research Managers. This initiative, developed through the EU-funded projects CARDEA and RM ROADMAP, is designed to support research managers in developing key skills, fostering career growth, and aligning practices with European standards.

RM Comp is organised into three primary dimensions:

• 7 Competence Areas, including Cognitive Abilities, Technical Proficiency, and Stakeholder Engagement.
• 50 Competencies, each with defined learning outcomes.
• 800 Learning Outcomes across four proficiency levels, from foundational to expert.

This framework serves multiple stakeholders within the European Research Area (ERA). For individual research managers, RM Comp serves as a tool for evaluating current competencies and planning professional growth. Organisations are encouraged to integrate the framework into their recruitment processes, training programmes, and performance evaluations. Funding agencies and policymakers can adopt RM Comp to establish standards, support capacity-building initiatives, and facilitate collaborative efforts. 

In addition, RM Comp complements other European Union efforts aimed at enhancing research careers, such as ResearchComp and EURAXESS. Collectively, these tools contribute to an ecosystem where research professionals can develop their skills, advance their careers, and engage in effective collaboration, thereby strengthening the European Research Area.

In summary, RM Comp represents a significant advancement in the professionalisation of research management across Europe. By providing a clear and structured framework, it empowers research managers, standardises institutional practices, and aligns efforts with European standards, ultimately contributing to a more innovative and dynamic research environment. 

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