EC-funded projects offer unique opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and personal growth. But what is it like to work on these projects as an early-career professional? Alicia Panadero from Medtronic Ibérica, project manager of SusFE and Hisham, researcher at Teesside University, share their experiences, challenges, and advice for future researchers and managers.
What did you initially expect from participating in an EC-funded project?
Alicia: I expected a well-structured framework with clear milestones, a diverse consortium ready to collaborate, and a chance to improve my coordination skills in partners/people coordination, EU reporting, and budgeting.
Hisham: Similarly, I anticipated working on a forward-thinking initiative focused on sustainability in electronics, collaborating with experts across Europe. I hoped to contribute to innovative research while gaining deeper insights into EC priorities like green innovation and sustainability.
How did your real-world experience match or diverge from those expectations?
Alicia: The framework was solid, but it required hands-on adjustments, especially with shifting deadlines. While partners were enthusiastic, aligning their perspectives and expectations demanded extra coordination.
Hisham: I had a similar experience. While the collaborative environment and cutting-edge research aligned with my expectations, there were some changes that needed to be made with the research due to the complexity of new technologies. These challenges, though unexpected, provided valuable learning opportunities.
Which project elements most shaped your view of EC funding?
Alicia: Working with 11 partners across different countries showed me the power of diverse expertise and the importance of tight communication to ensure success.
Hisham: The diverse and interdisciplinary structure of the consortium stood out for me as well. It fostered innovation and knowledge sharing, while the clear funding rules and structured deliverables ensured accountability and alignment with broader EC objectives like sustainability and circular economy.
How has working with international or multidisciplinary partners influenced your day-to-day approach?
Alicia: It has sharpened my communication and organizational skills, teaching me to navigate cultural differences, language barriers, and time zones effectively. These experiences broadened my problem-solving perspective and fostered creativity.
Hisham: I agree. Collaborating across cultures and disciplines pushed me to become more adaptable and intentional about incorporating diverse perspectives. It enriched my problem-solving process and highlighted the importance of clear communication and active listening.
What new technical or soft skills have you acquired through this project?
Alicia: I learned to navigate EC grant-management platforms and financial dashboards, while improving my negotiation, conflict-resolution, and cross-cultural communication skills.
Hisham: For me, mastering cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAP) technologies was a key technical achievement. On the soft side, I strengthened my scientific communication and collaboration skills, which enhanced my ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary consortium.
Which training, workshops, or mobility opportunities added the most value to your professional development?
Alicia: Organizing events abroad with diverse partners was invaluable. It strengthened my coordination skills, enhanced cultural sensitivity, and expanded my international network.
Hisham: Specialized CAP workshops that were organized by a consortium partner were most impactful for me. They deepened my technical expertise while broadening my professional network and exposing me to diverse viewpoints, which enriched my research efforts.
Can you point to specific achievements that you attribute to your EU-project work?
Alicia: I’m proud of submitting our first report on time and helping secure a grant for including Tecnalia Serbia as an additional partner to the consortium. Coordinating project status reviews with the European Commission also showcased my organizational and collaboration skills.
Hisham: I’m looking forward to developing research publications from my work on the SusFE project but I am pleased to have enhanced my technical knowledge and teamwork abilities. These experiences have laid a strong foundation for my future work.
What unexpected benefits or surprises did you encounter along the way?
Alicia: Building strong professional relationships and networks was a pleasant surprise. Organizing events abroad enriched my adaptability and cultural sensitivity, while navigating challenges boosted my resilience and problem-solving skills.
Hisham: I also found the cultural and interdisciplinary exchange unexpectedly enriching. It broadened my perspective and exposed me to advanced research methodologies and tools, which has contributed significantly to my professional growth.
What were the biggest challenges you faced, and how did you tackle them?
Alicia: Two major challenges I faced were navigating the complexity of EC reporting requirements and managing unexpected delays. I relied on proactive planning, adaptability, and collaborative problem-solving to keep the project on track.
Hisham: One of my biggest challenges was mastering the technical aspects of CAP, which was new to me. I overcame this by combining hands-on experimentation, literature reviews, and guidance from colleagues. Persistence and collaboration were key to navigating these obstacles.
What single piece of advice would you give to future early-stage researchers or managers?
Alicia: My advice is to prioritize building strong relationships and open communication with your team and partners. Collaboration is key, so invest in understanding different perspectives and work styles. Embrace challenges as learning opportunities, stay organized, and step out of your comfort zone for growth.
Hisham: I’d add that it’s important to set realistic expectations about the pace and complexity of collaborative research. Embrace flexibility, maintain clear communication, and build strong relationships with your team. The journey of learning from diverse perspectives and working toward common goals is just as valuable as the results.
Alicia and Hisham’s experiences demonstrate the multifaceted nature of EC-funded projects. From technical expertise to soft skills, these initiatives offer a wealth of opportunities for growth and collaboration. Their advice serves as a valuable guide for anyone embarking on a similar journey. Whether you’re an early-career researcher or manager, the challenges and rewards of EC-funded projects can be transformative, paving the way for meaningful contributions to global innovation.
