BU Research Blog

Becoming an external peer reviewer of research funding applications not only provides an excellent way to contribute to academic citizenship, but it is also an excellent way to expose yourself to high quality research, form networks with peers outside of BU, and have access to the latest research taking place.

AHRC have just launched a new round of AHRC Peer Review College recruitment.

In previous years, this has been convoluted with a nomination process and applying through Je-S. As part of UKRI’s EDI strategy, the new process is much more inclusive and streamlined. A key objective of this recruitment exercise is to further diversity AHRC’s membership and cement plurality of voices in their decision-making processes.

Applications across AHRC’s disciplinary remit are strongly encouraged from persons who identify as an ethnic minority, persons with disabilities, persons of diverse gender identities and expressions, and persons identifying with other groups who are currently underrepresented. Applications are also encouraged from people with specific arts and humanities-relevant professional experience and expertise that is currently underrepresented on the College; a full list can be found in the call document.

Timetable

Changes to the recruitment process:

• AHRC are changing the nomination model used in previous years, and instead will only be accepting applications directly from individuals who wish to nominate themselves. It is no longer possible for colleagues and/or organisations to nominate individuals on their behalf.
• Applicants need only fill in a single application form; AHRC are not asking for Je-S submissions. Successful applicants will still need a Je-S account to complete peer review activities and AHRC will support anyone who needs to create an account to do so when they are appointed.
• AHRC plan to merge the current PRC sub-group structure (Academic, Strategic, International, non-HEI, Knowledge Exchange, Strategic ODA) into a single College for all members in 2022. All new members will simply be appointed as AHRC Peer Review College members.

AHRC require applicants to include the name and email address of an administrative contact at BU, as they will use this to advise BU of any successful applications from your institution. If you are interested in becoming a peer review member, please contact me, Jo Garrad.