Our History
The SARGA Funding Office was established to support the research community of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens in leveraging European funding programmes. With a focus on Horizon Europe, MSCA actions, and ERC Grants, we have supported hundreds of researchers in transforming their innovative ideas into successfully funded projects.
Our Vision
To be the catalyst for research excellence, enhancing NKUA's participation in top European funding programmes.
Our Mission
To provide comprehensive support to researchers, from finding opportunities to successful project implementation, with transparency and efficiency.
Our Services
- check_circle Support in drafting and submitting proposals for Horizon Europe, ERC, and MSCA.
- check_circle Research project management and financial monitoring.
- check_circle ERC interview preparation and candidate coaching.
- check_circle Networking with European bodies and partner search.
Development Timeline
2014 - The Beginning
Establishment of the Funding Office
Focus on Horizon 2020 and initial researcher support actions.
2018 - Expansion
New Support Services
Creation of project management department and experiential workshops.
2021 - Horizon Europe
New Programming Period
Adaptation to the new challenges of Horizon Europe and EU Missions.
2024 - Today
Digital Transformation
Development of digital tools and researcher support platform.
Our Values
Academic Excellence
We support high-quality research and scientific innovation.
Collaboration
We believe in the power of interdisciplinary and international cooperation.
Support
We provide personalized guidance at every stage of the research journey.
Our Team
Specialized Consultants
Prof. Nikolaos Thomaidis
President and Founder of the Office
- check Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, NKUA
- check Vice President of the Board of Directors, University of Athens (2023-)
- check President of the Board of Directors, SARGA (2018-2022, 2023-)
- check Coordinator of NKUA Horizontal Research Laboratories
Dr. Sofia Xesfingi
Head of the Funding Attraction Office
Holder of a PhD from the University of Piraeus in Health Economics. National Contact Point for Horizon Europe (Cluster Health & Mission on Cancer) 2022-2025. Specialized experience in managing national and European projects.
Andriana Papakonstantinou
Director of the Funding Attraction Office
Economist, graduate of Athens University of Economics and Business with a Master's in Supply Chain Management (Univ. of Piraeus & NTUA). 10+ years of experience in managing national and European programmes. Member of the Hellenic Chamber of Commerce and evaluator of co-funded programmes.
Sofia Gkova
Project Manager
Graduate of Industrial Management and Technology (Univ. of Piraeus) with specialization in Project Management. Experience in risk management, quality assurance, and blockchain applications. Has been supporting the Office since 2023, focusing on communication strategies and experiential workshops.
Dr. Athanasia Megremi
Working Group Member
PhD in History and Philosophy of Science. National Contact Point for Marie-Sklodowska Curie Actions (MSCA) until June 2025. 8+ years of experience in national and European programmes for strengthening the research community. Head of NKUA Publications Support.