Sofia Gkova

A highly motivated Project Manager & Research Administration Specialist with expertise in Funding Support, Dissemination & Communication Strategies for National and European projects. Proven experience in research funding mechanisms, proposal development, networking, and project implementation. Adept at supporting academic institutions, research teams, and businesses in securing funding opportunities while ensuring effective stakeholder engagement and project dissemination. Passionate about innovation management, entrepreneurship acceleration, and strategic communication, with a strong background in database management, proposal writing, and community outreach.

Professional ExperienceFunding Support Office, Property Utilization & Management Company of NKUA
📅 11/2023 - 01/2024
Project Manager – Research Funding & Dissemination Strategies
- Acted as a key liaison between NKUA faculty and funding bodies, enhancing participation in National & European Funding Programs.
- Provided specialized consulting and advisory services to researchers for proposal submission and funding mechanisms.
- Developed and implemented Dissemination & Communication Strategies for promoting research outcomes and funding opportunities.
- Organized networking events and collaborative initiatives, fostering partnerships among academia, industry, and funding agencies.
- Managed and distributed targeted newsletters, ensuring timely updates on funding calls, academic news, and research opportunities.
- Maintained and expanded a comprehensive database tracking faculty participation in funded research projects.
- Contributed to strategic planning and continuous development of the Funding Support Office’s operations.
- Participated in the European Nexus MonARC project, supporting its implementation and outreach activities.
"Archimedes" Center, NKUA
📅 01/2023 - 10/2023
Acceleration Program Officer
- Supported the execution of the Entrepreneurship & Innovation Acceleration Program.
- Guided early-stage startups and research-based entrepreneurial teams in developing their business models.
- Designed and managed Dissemination & Communication Strategies to increase program visibility and engagement.
- Organized mentorship and networking initiatives, connecting startups with industry experts and investors.
- Participated in outreach campaigns, promoting the NKUA innovation ecosystem within Greece and internationally.
- Assisted in the preparation of progress reports and impact assessment documents for the program.
ISW CONSULTING M.EPE
📅 08/2020 - 09/2021
Project Administration Officer
- Managed IT-related projects and digital transformation initiatives.
- Conducted market research and funding opportunity assessments.
- Prepared and submitted grant proposals for national and EU programs.
- Implemented Dissemination & Communication Strategies, ensuring project outreach and visibility.
- Developed and maintained project databases, tracking progress and deliverables.
Markakos Constructions SA
📅 04/2019 - 07/2020
Project Manager
- Managed construction projects from planning to completion.
- Developed budgeting and cost analysis reports, ensuring financial feasibility.
- Oversaw procurement and supplier negotiations, optimizing resource allocation.
- Designed and executed communication campaigns for project promotion and stakeholder engagement.
- Led a COVID-19 product launch initiative, introducing plexiglass protective solutions.
EducationUniversity of Piraeus
📅 09/2010 - 07/2016
Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Management & Technology
School of Maritime & Industry
📅 10/2020 - Present
Master’s Degree in Project Management & Product Development
- Thesis: Project Management in European Programs: Innovations, Challenges, and Prospects
Certifications & SkillsLanguages
- English: Certificate of Proficiency (Michigan ECPE, 2018)
- German: Zertifikat Deutsch (2005)
Technical Skills
- Microsoft Office Suite
- SAP
- MS Project
- Reports
- Funding & Tenders Portal
- OPSKE` (Greek National Funding System)
- Time Management
Additional Training & Projects
- Blockchain Applications in Finance & Healthcare (10/2021 - 01/2022)
- Risk Management Plan & Quality Management Plan (Supermarket Renovation Project – Quality & Risk Management Course)