# Defining the role

Paper section 1.1.

## Section 1.1: Definition of Research Community Managers

The paper defines RCMs as professionals who foster a collaborative environment where a diverse research community can access the socio-technical infrastructure and participatory processes it needs to engage, gain recognition, and build shared agency over its work.

### Practical uses

- Borrow the three core functions when explaining the role: provide access to socio-technical infrastructure, facilitate participatory processes, and build shared ownership and agency.
- Use the note on job titles to recognise RCM work under different names, such as community coordinator, community engagement officer, or network coordinator.

[Back to the paper guide overview](../paper-guide.md)
