Call for expression of interest for independent observers of the evaluation of the ERC calls
The ERC is selecting independent observers with extensive knowledge and experience in scientific evaluation systems. Their role is to assess the ERC procedures for evaluating grant applications, which includes observing the evaluation sessions and subsequently providing views on the extent to which the procedures are fit for purpose and the way in which the external experts apply the ERC selection criteria. The independent observers verify that the procedures set out or referred to in the applicable rules are adhered to.
Experts interested in being appointed as independent observers are invited to submit their application before the 20th of September 2025 using the link provided below.
Main tasks
The observers should be invited to the briefing of the evaluators and will be guided on their role consisting of:
- Checking the functioning and execution of the overall process;
- Verifying compliance with the procedures;
- Advising on the conduct and fairness of the evaluation sessions, how the evaluators apply the criteria, and how the procedures could be improved;
- Liaising with the staff members involved in the evaluation sessions and if necessary, suggesting possible corrections that could be put into practice immediately (or for future evaluations).
Observers’ report
The independent observers will write a report covering the following:
- The scale of complexity of the evaluation task;
- The transparency of the procedures;
- Throughput time of the evaluation and the efficiency of the procedures;
- The reliability and usability of the procedures, including IT tool;
- The impartiality, fairness and confidentiality of the evaluation;
- Conformity of the evaluation with the applicable rules;
- Quality of the evaluation process in comparison with similar evaluation procedures;
- The overall quality of the evaluation;
- Other remarks.
The observers may be supported in their task by ERCEA staff.
Selection of observers
The observers selected by the ERC Scientific Council will have to register in the Expert Database Portal. They will be assisted in this task by the staff of the Agency.
General contract conditions
A contract will be concluded containing the terms and conditions of the work, the workload expected per year (around 5 days), and the documents common to all observers (Expert Call for Expression of Interest – Expert Terms of Reference – Expert Code of Conduct).
Click here to apply
