V4 Training for Research Project Managers the took place again in Brussels on April 28–30, 2025, bringing together experienced research managers, some directly involved in major European programmes, including Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe. This opportunity for knowledge-sharing continues to shape the landscape of collaborative research across the continent.
This was the 17th edition of the training, which has so far been attended by 526 participants, including 108 from Poland!
The programme lasted three days and included the following:
Day 1 introduced participants to the EU research and innovation landscape, focusing on the role of the V4 liaison offices in Brussels and the political priorities of Horizon Europe. The sessions covered how to interpret and influence work programmes and explored strategies for increasing institutional visibility within the European Research Area. The day also included a pitching activity aimed at preparing participants for effective networking at brokerage events. It concluded with an evening networking reception attended by Brussels-based research stakeholders.
Day 2 focused on practical aspects of research project management. Participants shared their institutional experiences and practices in working with researchers. The programme also presented European Commission policies on Open Science and explored opportunities offered by COST Actions. The day ended with a hands-on workshop on how to use the Horizon Dashboard.
Day 3 was dedicated to strategic capacity building and supporting the professional development of research project managers. The agenda featured sessions on the European Research Area (ERA) and various initiatives fostering the growth of the research management community (e.g. EARMA, RM Roadmap). Participants also learned about the evaluation process in Horizon Europe—from both the funder’s and the evaluator’s perspectives. The training concluded with an optional workshop on the PM² project management methodology.
Polish participants:
- Iwona Filarska (University of Wrocław)
- Katarzyna Hołownicka (Institute of Horticulture – National Research Institute)
- Daria Pęziak-Kowalska (Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences)
- Agata Pik (Jagiellonian University)
- Katarzyna Styś (Institute of Geophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences)
- Mateusz Wielebinski (Poznań University of Economics and Business)
- Krzysztof Wilczek (InLife – Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences)
Thank you!
The training provided a comprehensive view of research project management and fostered valuable networking with fellow professionals. Such initiatives are essential for increasing the participation of Polish institutions in international research projects.
The full programme is available below.
The training was organised by the PolSCA Office in cooperation with the Czech Liaison Office for Education and Science (CZELO), the National Research, Development and Innovation Office in Hungary (NRDIO), and the Slovak Liaison Office for Research and Development (SLORD).
What’s next? Stay tuned—more information about our plans for autumn is coming soon!
