Commission calls for experts to evaluate FP6 projects

Brussels, 05 Dec 2002

The Commission has published two calls for experts to assist it in evaluating and selecting proposals for research projects to be funded under the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6).

Under FP6, proposals will continue to be evaluated and selected for funding with the help of independent external scientists. This peer review system will be further streamlined to ensure the procedure is even more transparent and efficient.

'Our programmes are based on excellence,' said European Research Commissioner Philippe Busquin. 'The idea of the European Research Area, a true internal market for knowledge and science, is to make Europe share best practice in the scientific field. To identify best projects and reward outstanding performance, we have to rely on high-quality experts to advise us. I invite research institutions to put us in touch with the best scientists and I invite researchers themselves to present their application and help us discover and support innovative research projects, to enhance Europe's competitiveness and quality of life.'

The first call for applications focuses on individual experts, whilst the second concerns research institutions and other organisations with an interest in research, which are invited to present lists of candidates. This is the first time such organisations have been asked to suggest names of experts.

FP6 aims to target its limited resources on a smaller number of well-focussed projects, to achieve added value and critical mass at EU level. This will require a high level of expertise. Evaluators will also have to change on a regular basis with at least 25 per cent of the evaluators working on a specific priority area changing annually. Independent experts may also come from outside EU Member States or FP6 Associated States. To promote equal opportunities, the Commission will try to achieve a 40 per cent quota of women for evaluation panels.

Applications can be filed on-line and thereafter candidates will be contacted individually. Experts appointed by the Commission will assist it in evaluating proposals and may be called on to monitor projects as well.

To see the two calls, please consult the following web address: http://www.cordis.lu/experts/fp6_candida ture.htm

CORDIS RTD-NEWS/© European Communities, 2001