Launch of the Research Administration Network
As part of our ongoing efforts to improve research administration efforts within the McGill community, we are very pleased to announce the launch of the Research Administration Network (RAN) – a new training initiative that will provide opportunities to exchange information and tools required to facilitate research administration at McGill University while also increasing our adaptability to the requirements of our sponsors.
Developed collaboratively by the Office of Sponsored Research (OSR) and Research Financial Management Services (RFMS), under the leadership of the VP (Research and International Relations) & VP (Administration & Finance), the goals of this initiative are to:
- Provide the tools and resources to foster the professional development of McGill staff by improved understanding of the policies and processes involved in day-to-day research administration activities
- Illustrate and advocate best practices aimed to minimize or prevent McGill and its research community from future compliance and audit issues.
- Develop a community of practice, harnessing the knowledge and expertise that exist across the McGill community with respect to research administration
- Distinguish McGill as a leader in not only research excellence but also in adherence to the highest standards of research administration and compliance.
As an initial step, a new RAN listserv announcement system has been created. We invite all McGill staff who support faculty with their research activities to join the RAN and stay informed of policies and procedures affecting research administration. Subscribe by contacting researchadministrator.osr [at] mcgill.ca.
Starting in January 2013, RAN sessions will be held monthly. A variety of “cradle to grave” research administration topics will be offered encompassing proposal development, award management and financial administration.
The first 6 sessions will be held on the following Fridays from 9:00 to 11:00:
The two summer sessions will be held on Thursday July 18, 2013 and Thursday August 15, 2013 and will be a repeat of one another to accommodate staff on holidays over the summer period.
Please mark your calendars. Topics, speakers and locations will be confirmed via the RAN listserv so please sign up and stay tuned.
We look forward to seeing you.
Mary-Margaret Klempa, Senior Director, Office of Sponsored Research
& Elvie Coletta, Director, Research Financial Management Services