In the context of the wide research environment, we introduce the CERIF (Common European Research Information Format) data model which (a) has a richer structure than the usual metadata standards used in research information; (b) separates base entities from link entities thus providing flexibility in expressing role–based temporal relationships; (c) defines a distinct semantic layer so that relationship roles in link entities and controlled value lists in base entities are separately managed and multiple vocabularies can be used and related to each other; (d) can generate the common metadata formats used in research information. CERIF is used widely and is an EU recommendation to member states. At the request of the European Commission, CERIF is maintained, developed and promoted by euroCRIS.