The COST programme encourages experts from all scientific fields to engage in the evaluation of proposals for COST Actions, collected annually through the COST Open Call. Participation as a COST external expert allows professionals to contribute to the fair, inclusive, and transparent assessment of scientific projects at a European level. Engagement in this role provides unique insights into emerging scientific trends and strengthens professional recognition within research communities.
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Eligibility Criteria for COST External Experts
- Academic Qualification: A university degree is mandatory.
- Professional Experience: Considerable scientific or professional expertise in the specific field is required.
- Institutional Affiliation: Experts do not necessarily need to belong to an academic institution.
- International Participation: Experts from non-COST countries are welcome.
Responsibilities of COST External Experts
- Proposal Evaluation: Review and assess COST Open Call proposals.
- Outcome Assessment: Participate in the evaluation of Action results and achievements.
- Impact Contribution: Support the overall success and impact of COST Actions.
- Knowledge Update: Stay informed about the latest scientific and technological developments.
- Professional Recognition: Enhance reputation within the research community as a recognized COST expert.
Benefits of Becoming a COST External Expert
- Professional Development: Gain exposure to cutting-edge research across multiple scientific domains.
- Networking Opportunities: Collaborate with peers and experts across Europe and globally.
- Recognition: Formal acknowledgment in the COST expert community enhances professional credibility.
- Flexible Engagement: Participate in occasional, short-term assignments without long-term commitments.
- Contributing to Science: Support transparent, equitable, and high-quality evaluation processes in scientific research.
Process to Apply as a COST External Expert
- e-COST Profile Creation: Create an e-COST account if not already registered.
- Profile Update: Include core and other areas of expertise and mark availability for inclusion in the COST Expert database.
- Optional Information: Add ORCID ID, professional webpage(s), and Curriculum Vitae to strengthen profile visibility.
- Matching Process: COST will contact experts when their profile aligns with specific proposals.
- Existing Users: Current e-COST profile holders can update their profile with relevant expertise and ensure availability is marked.
Step-by-Step Application Instructions
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Create e-COST Profile | Register on the e-COST portal if new. |
| 2 | Add Expertise | Include core and other scientific/professional expertise areas. |
| 3 | Mark Availability | Ensure your profile is available for inclusion in the COST expert database. |
| 4 | Optional Additions | Provide ORCID ID, professional website, and Curriculum Vitae. |
| 5 | Wait for Matching | COST contacts experts when proposals align with their expertise. |
| 6 | Update Existing Profile | Existing experts update details and availability to remain active. |
Guidelines for COST External Experts
- Confidentiality: Maintain strict confidentiality regarding all proposals and evaluations.
- Impartiality: Avoid conflicts of interest and evaluate proposals objectively.
- Timeliness: Submit evaluations within the given deadlines to ensure smooth project assessment.
- Quality Assurance: Provide constructive and detailed feedback to improve proposal quality.
- Communication: Respond promptly to queries and maintain professional correspondence with COST coordinators.
Opportunities Across Scientific Fields
- Natural Sciences: Physics, chemistry, earth sciences, and environmental studies.
- Engineering & Technology: Computer science, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering.
- Medical & Health Sciences: Public health, biotechnology, clinical research.
- Social Sciences: Economics, psychology, sociology, and political science.
- Humanities & Arts: Literature, history, cultural studies, arts management.
Advantages of International Participation
- Global Perspective: Exposure to diverse scientific practices and methodologies.
- Collaboration Potential: Opportunity to co-develop research strategies with European peers.
- Enhanced Expertise: Learn about emerging trends and technological developments outside your home country.
- Visibility in COST Community: Recognized contribution increases professional visibility in Europe and beyond.
Support and Resources for COST Experts
| Resource | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Guide for Independent External Experts | Provides comprehensive instructions for proposal evaluation. |
| Infographic Guide | Visual overview of the responsibilities and steps for experts. |
| e-COST Helpdesk | Assistance with profile creation and application-related queries. |
| Webinars & Training | Updates on COST processes, evaluation criteria, and scientific trends. |
Practical Tips for Applicants
- Accuracy in Profile: Ensure all information is up-to-date and reflects actual expertise.
- Availability: Clearly indicate willingness to engage in assignments.
- Continuous Learning: Keep skills and knowledge updated for better evaluation performance.
- Networking: Use the opportunity to connect with COST Action coordinators and scientific communities.
Wrapping Up
Participation as a COST external expert represents a valuable opportunity for professionals to contribute to European-level scientific assessments while enhancing their own expertise and reputation. Scientific knowledge, impartiality, and commitment are critical for effective participation. Experts gain exposure to diverse fields, influence research impact, and engage in a collaborative, transparent evaluation process. COST external experts play a pivotal role in advancing high-quality research and shaping the future of scientific collaboration in Europe and beyond.
