Some twenty networks used the opportunity of the EASA18 conference in Stockholm to hold business meetings and to begin the process of electing new Network Convenors where necessary. In addition, various networks organised at least one panel and lab at EASA18 (all networks have the right to have one panel selected when EASA conferences are being put together) which were popular and well-attended, proving again that networks are at the heart of EASA.
In addition Marcus Banks (networks Liaison officer) and Valeria Siniscalchi (EASA President and former networks Liaison officer) held a lunchtime meeting at EASA18 for Network Convenors. This proved very popular and lively, and included discussion of topics such as Network funding, cooperation and joint activities between networks, different forms of Network governance (two Convenors versus larger collectives – both are acceptable), and how to make the mailing lists do more for the networks than just acting as a place to post job openings and research opportunities. Examples of ideas to make the mailing lists more dynamic included encouraging members to post book reviews relevant to the Network topic, and holding e-seminars.
Finally, some housekeeping notices:
- At the meeting of Network Convenors it emerged that not all Convenors are on the Network Convenors mailing list; if you are a Convenor and you have not heard from NomadIT in some time, please contact Elaine Morley at membership(at)easaonline.org and make sure NomadIT has the correct contact details for your Network;
- networks are reminded of our rule that ‘Convenors should be elected every two years and be in office for no more than four years’ – this is not a hard and fast rule, and we appreciate that it may be difficult to find Network members willing to take on role of Convening – please contact the Network liaison officer if you foresee difficulties in managing good governance of your Network;
- Network Convenors are also reminded to send in reports (brief is fine) detailing Network activity over the past year; this is especially important for networks that sponsored panels and labs at EASA18. Note also that it is a condition of eligibility for applying for funds that Convenors submit an annual report on their activities.
- Don’t be afraid to close a Network! (or merge with another Network) – networks are not for life, only for as long as they prove intellectually stimulating; it is natural that some networks may just run out of steam and the members move on to other activities;
- Finally, the call for funding for Network activity for 2018-19 is now open. The total allocation to networks has been increased this year to €26000 and the Executive Committee invites bids for awards of €500-€2000 to support Network activity such as workshops, labs, and other events that advance the intellectual raison d’être of the Network; there is not a competition as such but we favour applications from new networks and from networks that arrange joint activities with other networks. To apply please go to:
http://www.easaonline.org/networks/funding.shtml
Marcus Banks