A ROADMAP FOR RESEARCH MANAGEMENT (RM) TO STRENGTHEN THE EUROPEAN RESEARCH AREA - Policy brief

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What is this about?

The RM Roadmap Short Policy Brief is a concise policy document from the RM ROADMAP project creating Framework Conditions for Research Management to Strengthen the European Research Area coordinated by the European Association of Research Managers and Administrators (EARMA) and funded by the Horizon Europe programme. It presents an evidence-based vision and strategic recommendations for the future of Research Management (RM) across Europe. The brief summarises the challenges facing the research management profession including fragmentation of practices, inconsistent standards, and lack of formal recognition and outlines priorities for strengthening institutional and systemic support. It highlights the outcomes of extensive co-creation activities with stakeholders (surveys, ambassador networks and community engagement) to build consensus on RM’s value, core functions, skills, and policy measures. The policy brief sets the stage for the full RM Roadmap, which will provide detailed pathways for implementing professional standards, upskilling, networking, and recognition of RM as an essential component of research and innovation systems.

Why is this important?

This policy brief is important because it elevates Research Management from a support function to a strategic pillar of the European Research Area (ERA). It provides policymakers, institutional leaders, and funders with evidence and consensus-driven recommendations to strengthen RM capacity, standardise competencies, and integrate the profession into research systems. Strong RM improves research quality, competitiveness, collaboration, and administrative efficiency, especially in cross-border and interdisciplinary contexts. By outlining shared priorities and a roadmap for future actions, the brief helps set the agenda for ERA Action 17 and supports the development of policies that ensure research managers are recognised, trained, and equipped to enhance European research performance.

For whom is this important?

Policymakers and European research authoritiesResearch funding organisations and industry partnersResearch managers and administratorsTraining and professional development providersUniversity and research institution leaders

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