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The European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA) has launched a call for expert evaluators in artificial intelligence, robotics, and sensing technologies, inviting professionals from across Europe and beyond to contribute to the next phase of EU-funded research and innovation
The HaDEA call is part of Horizon Europe, the European Union’s flagship research and innovation programme running from 2021 to 2027.
It targets in particular activities under Cluster 4: Digital, Industry and Space, which support advanced digital technologies, industrial leadership, and Europe’s long-term competitiveness and resilience.
HaDEA is seeking specialists with strong scientific, technical, and industrial expertise to evaluate project proposals for the 2026 Digital calls.
Focus on advanced materials and sensing
One key area of interest is advanced, innovative materials with digital and sensing capabilities. HaDEA is looking for experts in materials science and engineering to assess proposals for developing low-cost, multifunctional, and smart materials for sensing applications.
This includes solutions such as environmental monitoring, health applications, and other real-world use cases. Relevant expertise spans 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 up solutions for industrial deployment and ensuring sustainability and cost-effectiveness will be considered a strong asset. Evaluators in this domain will help ensure that funded projects are not only scientifically sound but also capable of delivering practical and market-ready outcomes.
Artificial intelligence and autonomous systems
Another priority is artificial intelligence, particularly next-generation AI systems and agents. HaDEA is seeking experts with in-depth knowledge of agentic AI architectures, autonomous and adaptive systems, and multi-agent environments.
People with expertise in trustworthy and explainable AI are particularly sought after, as Europe emphasizes responsible, human-centric digital transformation. Evaluators may be called to review projects deploying AI solutions in sectors such as industry, mobility, health, energy, and public services.
Professionals with hands-on experience in implementing AI in real-world environments are also strongly encouraged to register. A solid understanding of system validation, robustness, and scalability will be key in assessing high-impact proposals.
Intelligent robotics and human-centric automation
HaDEA is also inviting robotics and automation specialists to join its evaluators. The focus includes agile and adaptive robotic platforms, autonomous and collaborative robots, human-robot interaction, and intelligent control systems.
Particular value is placed on experience in deploying robotics solutions in industrial and service environments. This includes safety, reliability, user interaction, and integration challenges that arise outside controlled laboratory conditions.
Experts in human-centric automation, which designs technology to complement and enhance human capabilities, will play a critical role in guiding EU investments toward socially beneficial and economically viable innovations.
Digital-physical integration and systems engineering
Another area of interest is digital-physical integration and system engineering. HaDEA is looking for 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 who can bridge hardware, software, and application domains are encouraged to apply.
HaDEA welcomes applications from academia, research organisations, industry, SMEs, and public bodies. Interdisciplinary and cross-sector experience is highly valued.
Interested experts are invited to register or update their profile in the European Commission’s expert database. While 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.