The lack of transparency is on the ANICT-FCT table

On the 28th February 2014, the ANICT direction had a meeting with the president of FCT. The main topics discussed were:

1. The lack of transparency on human resources recruitment programs
2. A lack of long-term strategy in science in Portugal

ANICT reinforced the need to implement evaluation panels without direct conflict of interest. FCT showed a positive attitude towards this requirement and ongoing meetings are taking place in order to adjust the implementation of this rule. The IF2014 call will also show some improvements, partially based on ANICT recommendations.

Regarding the lack of long-term strategy, ANICT proposed the organization of a major national event where all key players directly or indirectly involved on the policy making and execution  of science could gather and discuss an Portuguese 2020 plan.