The mission of the Research Administrators' Community of Practice (RA COP) is to increase and disseminate research administration knowledge by developing and sharing best practices, building a collection of resources, innovating, and bringing together a vibrant community of administrators.

Created in 2020, this RA COP consists of a group of administrators, Division Managers, members from PCRAFT, and others interested in research administration who share the following principles:

●     Fostering collaboration and innovation among pre- and post-award Research Administrators

●     Building and aligning resources to reduce administrative burden

●     Sharing knowledge and best practices to increase efficiency

●     Celebrating and developing a diverse workforce of Research Administrators

Beginning Fall 2026, the Pediatrics Research Administrators’ Community of Practice is launching the Community Training & Mentorship Project (CTMP), a new pilot meant to engage membership and help them develop valuable skills for career advancement. The pilot allows RAs to submit and execute their own training events, in exchange for a one-time stipend ($500; can be split among co-presenters). These Community Scholars are assisted by experienced COP Mentors who help them hone their skills, refine their ideas, and successfully lead a training event for their peers.

The Mentors for the CTMP pilot year are Ali Holder (PCRAFT) and Danny Sierra (OPRD).

Anyone in an RA or related role in Pediatrics is encouraged to apply! We will collect applications through the form linked here on a rolling basis throughout the year. Applicants will be contacted after November 15 with more information. The CTMP events calendar will commence in early 2027. While the CTMP represents a change in how COP events are decided and presented, the mission of the group remains the same: sharing best practices, innovating, and connecting a vibrant community of administrators in Pediatrics. 

Join our mailing list to stay up to date on COP meetings and events. 

You can also connect with us on Slack! Search #peds-research-administration-community-of-practice in Slack to join.