As part of the European Year of Youth 2022, graduate students in the EU are invited to become - Young Observers - in the evaluations of the proposals of the Horizon Europe program, and this gives them the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the EU methodology when selecting projects for funding.

If chosen, the Young Observers will have the following opportunities:

• Observe the work of independent experts who evaluate the proposals, and learn first-hand how the EU budget for Horizon Europe is used by selecting the best proposals in a fair and impartial evaluation process in a fiercely competitive environment.
• Gain knowledge and support to develop skills relevant to evaluating proposals, gaining an insider's view and awareness of EU funding program opportunities that can be used later in the career.
• Obtaining a Young Observer certificate (in case of election and successful participation) awarded by the European Commission.
• Testing this new initiative by providing feedback to the European Commission and participating in further measures to encourage young people to get involved in research.

Eligible applicants for this initiative are students who are currently enrolled in a master's degree, in any discipline, at a university in an EU member state. Disadvantaged students from different backgrounds or who belong to vulnerable and marginalized groups are especially encouraged to apply.

You can apply until 14.12.2022. by completing the profile on the portal for funding and tenders under Horizon Europe, following the guidelines.

Selected Young Observers, will be invited to participate in call evaluations within the framework of the Horizon Europe program, which cover all areas of science in a broad sense, from social sciences and humanities to natural sciences and engineering.

He participates from the beginning in the evaluation of the relevant call for recommendation of funded proposals at the so-called panel meeting. Evaluations are conducted online, but in limited cases evaluation meetings can be held on-site in Brussels. In case of on-site participation, travel and accommodation costs and per diems are covered by the European Commission.

In order to get acquainted with the way of work, processes and topics, an introductory seminar is provided that covers all aspects of the evaluation, including practical training and ethical issues (confidentiality, conflict of interest, code of conduct, etc.) From the beginning of the observation of the evaluation process, the Young Observers will be matched with a mentor from the European Commission, which accompanies them throughout the process.

Source: EC