General information
1. What is the MERIT portal?
The MERIT Portal is a web-based software developed by the BIH QUEST Center for Responsible Research at Charité for transparent, fair, and quality-oriented research assessment procedures.
2. What is the aim of the MERIT Portal?
To support researchers in creating structured, narrative CVs and project appliactions so that they can present the quality and diversity of their research as well as their expertise
Application process
3. What is the application tool?
The application tool allows applicants to enter a structured, narrative CV digitally. This minimizes the need for additional documents and ensures consistent comparisons of application documents, increasing transparency and fairness in the assessment process.
4. Why can't I just create and send in my CV and project proposal myself?
The structured input in the application tool ensures standardized entries that facilitate a transparent structuring of the criteria for both applicants and members of the review committees. This process does not aim to standardize answers, but to present the criteria clearly and consistently.
5. How do I start my application?
Start by registering on the MERIT Portal. Click on the "Register" tab on the welcome page and follow the instructions. You can then download an application template to prepare your appliaction offline.
6. Which criteria are relevant for the application?
The MERIT Portal contains a variety of criteria that include, but are not limited to, the following:
Detailed explanations of these criteria can be found in the portal or the application template.
7. Do I have to fulfill all criteria?
No, not all criteria are equally important for every applicant. Please note the specific requirements set out in the call for applications and the explanatory notes for each criterion.
8. Can I save my application and continue later?
Yes, the MERIT Portal allows you to save your application regardless of the processing status. You can log back in at any time to complete and submit your application before the deadline.
9. How do I make sure that my application is complete?
Once you have completed the application form and uploaded your documents, check all sections to ensure that no information is missing. Categories in the overview page are marked red if they are incomplete. The portal will not allow submission if required fields are incomplete.
10. How do I know if my application has been successfully submitted?
After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email. You can also check the status of your application in your account dashboard in the MERIT Portal.
11. What are the application deadlines?
Application deadlines vary. Please refer to the specific call for applications for the exact deadline.
12. How is my personal data protected in the MERIT Portal?
The MERIT Portal adheres to strict data protection regulations and is approved by the Charité data protection office. Your personal data is encrypted and stored securely. They are only accessible to authorized personnel. You can find more information in the terms of use and privacy policy in the footer.
Technical problems
13. What should I do if I encounter an error when using the portal?
If you encounter technical problems, first try refreshing your browser or clearing the cache. If the problem persists, contact technical support at quest-merit@bih-charite.de.
Please report your problem using the following template:
Title: Briefly describe what went wrong, e.g., "Work experience section: data not saved". Try to be brief but precise.
Steps to reproduce the error: Describe what actions you took before you encountered the error (e.g., go to option X, click on the link in the sidebar, press enter, etc.).
Resulting vs. expected behavior: Indicate what happened compared to what you expected (e.g., I got an error message instead of going to the next page; I see a blank field instead of my data, etc.).
Screen capture or screenshot: Please take a screenshot or screenshot and send it to us.
Technical information: Please let us know what operating system (Windows/Mac/Linux) and browser (MS Edge, Chrome, Firefox, Safari) you are using.
After the submission
14. What happens to the information I provide in the application portal?
After your application has been initially reviewed, it will be made available to the authorized members of the review committees via the web-based assessment tool. The tool contains strategies to reduce the risk of (unconscious) bias and thus strengthens the peer review process. The MERIT Portal does not create ratings or rankings and does not collect additional criteria.
16. Can I withdraw my application after submission?
Yes, you can withdraw your application at any time. To do so, please contact NeuroCure at neurocure@charite.de.
17. Will I receive feedback on my application?
If you have any questions about your application, please contact NeuroCure at neurocure@charite.de.
18. My organization is interested in the MERIT Portal. Who can we contact?
The MERIT Portal is an in-house development of Charité and the BIH. A white label version is available to external interested parties for non-profit use and joint further development. Please contact us for further information at quest-merit@bih-charite.de.