ESF

The European Science Foundation (ESF) is a non-profit, non-governmental membership organisation that operates across the entire research lifecycle. Its core function is to provide expert, independent management and support services to the scientific community, research institutions, and policy makers. ESF does not conduct research itself; instead, it acts as a strategic partner that helps shape, coordinate, and administer research activities at the European and international levels. One of ESF’s primary activities is research assessment. It designs and implements evaluation frameworks for research programmes, funding schemes, and institutions, drawing on a vast network of subject-matter experts. This includes peer review, impact analysis, and quality assurance processes that help funding bodies and governments allocate resources more effectively. ESF also runs programme management services, taking responsibility for the full administrative cycle of large collaborative projects. This covers call preparation, proposal handling, grant agreement setup, monitoring of scientific progress, financial reporting, and final evaluation. Clients include national research councils, the European Commission, and other public or private research funders. Another key area is scientific structures and advisory work. ESF facilitates the creation of virtual laboratories, researcher networks, and expert panels that address specific scientific challenges. It organises workshops, conferences, and summer schools to foster cross-border collaboration. It also produces position papers and strategy documents on topics such as open science, researcher career development, and research integrity. Through its EU projects unit, ESF participates in or leads initiatives funded by Horizon Europe and other