The research administration community will convene later this month for the RAxMI Research Administration Conference — a day devoted to showcasing and elevating collective expertise across the University of Michigan’s three campuses. The event will be hosted by the Office of the Vice President for Research.

More than 500 U-M employees are registered for the conference, which will take place from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. April 28 at the Michigan Union.

Research administration depends on a dynamic partnership among researchers, research administrators, schools and central offices. By bringing that community together, organizers are creating a space to enhance skills, unify practices and build a stronger foundation for research across the U-M system, said Shandra White, associate vice president for research-sponsored projects. 

“Research administration is where policy, partnerships and problem-solving meet, and it is essential to U-M’s ability to do world-class research,” White said. “This conference provides a forum to celebrate the expertise across our schools and units, learn from one another and strengthen the relationships that help our research administration succeed.” 

White will provide opening remarks for the event along with Arthur Lupia, vice president for research and innovation.

“As the research landscape evolves, strong support systems matter more than ever,” Lupia said. “RAxMI brings our community together to learn, connect and keep improving how we serve U-M research teams.”

Keynoting the event will be Britany L. Affolter-Caine, executive director of Research Universities for Michigan, who will spotlight the state of Michigan’s research and innovation ecosystem. 

“Michigan’s research universities are a powerful engine for innovation and opportunity, and the work of research administrators helps make that engine run. I’m looking forward to discussing how strong research infrastructure and talent translate into impact for communities across Michigan and the Great Lakes region,” Affolter-Caine said.

Other programming will focus on timely challenges and practice tools. Attendees can expect to learn about best practices and how to navigate the changing world of research administration, network and connect with fellow professionals in the field, and gain a deeper understanding of the many institutional functions that contribute to success in research administration. Confirmed sessions include:

• From Signature to Science: Understanding the Terms that Drive Research Administration
• Introduction to Research Security
• Utilizing AI in Research Administration
• Leading Through Communication: Building Trust and Connection in Research Administration
• Mastering Large-Scale Grants: A Practical Guide for Research Administrators
• A Closing Panel on Creating a Unified Vision for Increased Collaboration Within Research Administration at U-M

Additional sessions will cover post-award management, supporting faculty at different career stages, Uniform Guidance, and working with the Office of Research and Sponsored Projects.

The event is free and open to U-M employees from all three campuses. Registration is currently closed, and organizers plan to offer a livestream option for the opening remarks and keynote. Additional information, including the day-of agenda and livestream information, will be posted on the RAxMI conference website.