The evaluation of the proposal should be based on the six criteria listed below that are identical to the criteria in the UNIK call text. The criteria are followed by more detailed questions that are intended to guide the understanding of each criterion and to ensure comparability between the various reviews. The criteria are divided into two sections. The first two criteria constitute the very definition of a UNIK and serve as conditions to be fulfilled in order to receive UNIK funding.
1. A UNIK is a dynamic and closely co-ordinated research framework involving interrelated research activities or sub-themes in a prospective field of research. It can deliver excellent research. It will promote synergy amongst the activities and consolidate a focal point for research at the University.
2. The research themes of the UNIK are given high priority by the University. The University can demonstrate potential synergy with other major research and strategic initiatives at the University.
To assess these two criteria, you might take the following questions into consideration:
- Is the research proposed at the highest scientific level? Is it original, ambitious and cutting edge within its field?
- Does the organisational structure point towards effective management and synergy amongst the activities in the UNIK framework?
- Does it seem likely that the proposed UNIK will be able to engage and create synergy with other major research and strategic initiatives at the University?
- Is the priority given by the University to the proposed UNIK well-documented?
The last four criteria are also highly important, but the proposed UNIKs may not be equally strong in all aspects pertaining to these criteria and yet may still be found eligible for funding.
3. The research themes are based on sound hypotheses and visions. Elements of the proposed research framework have already been established. The research groups involved have demonstrated excellence and originality in their previous research activities. Thus, a UNIK will result in competitive advantage in the research area.
To asses this criterion, you might take the following questions into consideration:
- To what extend does the proposal show a sound basis of hypothesis and visions?
- To what extend are elements of the UNIK framework already in place?
- To what extend have the researchers involved demonstrated excellence and originality in their previous work?
4. A UNIK has a strong international orientation and the capacity to play a decisive role in partnership with international leaders in the relevant field of research.
To asses this criterion, you might take the following questions into consideration:
- How strong is the international orientation of the proposed UNIK in terms of partners abroad, international exchange of researchers and students, etc.?
- Does the proposed UNIK include the most relevant international partners?
- Will the proposed UNIK be able to engage with international leaders?
5. A UNIK is ambitious and able to make probable a scientific breakthrough and/or significant scientific progress.
To asses this criterion, you might take the following question into consideration:
- Does the proposed UNIK have a clear aim towards significant scientific progress within its field of research?
6. A UNIK contains an element of recruitment and training of both national and international researchers who are at an early stage of their careers.
To asses this criterion, you might take the following question into consideration:
- Does the proposed UNIK provide training opportunities for young researcher in an attractive and adequate manner?
Please note that there is no a priori decision about thematic allocation of funds. Both basic and applied research is eligible for funding.
