EU Launches Call for Experts to Evaluate AI, Robotics, and Sensing Tech Projects

The European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA) has initiated a call for expert evaluators specializing in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and sensing technologies. This initiative aims to bolster the evaluation process for the next wave of EU-funded research and innovation projects under the Horizon Europe program.

Horizon Europe and Cluster 4

HaDEA’s call is an integral part of Horizon Europe, the European Union’s flagship research and innovation program, which runs from 2021 to 2027. The program, with a budget of €95.5 billion, focuses on fostering collaboration and driving impact in research and innovation to address global challenges and support EU policies. The call specifically targets activities within Cluster 4: Digital, Industry and Space, which prioritizes advancements in digital technologies, industrial leadership, and enhancing Europe’s long-term competitiveness and resilience.

Expertise Sought: Key Areas

HaDEA is seeking specialists with robust scientific, technical, and industrial backgrounds to assess project proposals for the 2026 Digital calls. The agency has identified several key areas where expertise is particularly needed:

Advanced Materials and Sensing

A primary focus is on advanced, innovative materials with integrated digital and sensing capabilities. HaDEA is looking for experts in materials science and engineering to evaluate proposals focused on developing low-cost, multifunctional, and smart materials for sensing applications. These applications span environmental monitoring, health applications, and other real-world scenarios. Relevant expertise includes smart and multifunctional materials, advanced manufacturing and production technologies, sensing systems, and the integration of materials into portable IoT devices and wearable systems. Experience in scaling solutions for industrial deployment, alongside considerations for sustainability and cost-effectiveness, will be highly valued.

Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Systems

Another critical area is artificial intelligence, with a focus on next-generation AI systems and agents. HaDEA seeks experts with in-depth knowledge of agentic AI architectures, autonomous and adaptive systems, and multi-agent environments. Specialists in trustworthy and explainable AI are particularly sought after, reflecting Europe’s commitment to responsible, human-centric digital transformation. Evaluators may review projects deploying AI solutions in sectors like industry, mobility, health, energy, and public services. Hands-on experience implementing AI in real-world settings and a strong understanding of system validation, robustness, and scalability are essential.

Intelligent Robotics and Human-Centric Automation

HaDEA is also inviting robotics and automation specialists to join its evaluator pool. The focus includes agile and adaptive robotic platforms, autonomous and collaborative robots, human-robot interaction, and intelligent control systems. Experience deploying robotics solutions in industrial and service environments, addressing challenges related to safety, reliability, user interaction, and integration, is highly valued. Experts in human-centric automation – designing technology to complement and enhance human capabilities – will play a crucial role in guiding EU investments toward socially beneficial and economically viable innovations.

Digital-Physical Integration and Systems Engineering

The agency is also seeking professionals with a system-level perspective on cyber-physical systems, embedded intelligence, and the integration of AI and robotics with physical components. End-to-end system engineering expertise, including interoperability, scalability, and robustness, is particularly relevant. Evaluators with interdisciplinary backgrounds capable of bridging hardware, software, and application domains are encouraged to apply.

Who Can Apply?

HaDEA welcomes applications from individuals affiliated with academia, research organizations, industry (including SMEs), and public bodies. Interdisciplinary and cross-sector experience is highly valued.

How to Apply

Interested experts are invited to register or update their profile in the European Commission’s expert database. Whereas registration does not guarantee selection, it enables HaDEA to identify suitable candidates for upcoming evaluation sessions linked to the 2026 Digital calls under Horizon Europe. According to a recent announcement, grant agreement preparations for the 2025 SPACE-HADEA call are expected to be completed by the end of May 2026 (EuropeSays).

Horizon Europe Funding

The Horizon Europe Space Research Call 2025 allocated €138.6 million to 27 space research projects (EuropeSays). The call, HORIZON-CL4-2025-02 (SPACE-HADEA), is part of Horizon Europe Cluster 4: Digital, Industry and Space (Copernicus).