While URMAN provides a community of practice and a forum for networking, training and peer-to-peer learning at UCD, both on the island of Ireland and internationally there are additional professional associations of which Research Managers and Administrators can become members and obtain multiple benefits.
On the island of Ireland these include:
All-Island Research Excellence Network
The All-Island Research Excellence Network (AIREN), led by University College Dublin (UCD), Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and Ulster University (Ulster), is a network dedicated to supporting research managers and administrators (RMAs) across the island of Ireland (IOI).
The initiative commenced in January 2021 and was funded through the InterTradeIreland (ITI) Synergy Programme from January 2021-March 2023.
AIREN has received additional funding starting December 2023 from the Higher Education Authority (HEA) to grow and expand the membership and activities of the network.
Through AIREN, research managers and administrators (RMAs) across the island of Ireland will be proactive and develop new ways to support existing and build new cross-border collaborations.
Full details about AIREN can be found (opens in a new window)here.
Irish Research Managers and Professionals Association (IRMPA)
The association for Irish research managers and professionals is referred to as the “Irish Research Managers and Professionals Association” which focuses on supporting individuals involved in research management and administration within Irish HEIs/RPOs.
The association is yet to be formally launched.
Northern Ireland Research Professionals Network (NIRPN)
The Northern Ireland Research Professionals Network is a community of practice bringing together research support staff from higher education institutions across Northern Ireland. Established as part of the Research Culture NI initiative, the network provides a collaborative platform for research managers, administrators, and professionals who facilitate research activities to share knowledge, develop skills, and address common challenges. Through regular networking events, workshops, and resource sharing, the network aims to strengthen Northern Ireland's research ecosystem by fostering cross-institutional connections and promoting professional development among those who play vital roles in supporting the region's research environment. Membership is open to all research professionals from Northern Ireland's universities and research organizations who wish to contribute to and benefit from this collaborative community.
You can find out more about NIRPN via (opens in a new window)https://www.researchcultureni.co.uk/ni-research-professionals-network
Outsie of Ireland these include: