We’re looking for reviewers, panel chairs, and observers to join the reviewer pool for Round 2 of the Research Software Maintenance Fund (RSMF). With a large number of Expressions of Interest now moving to the full application stage, we need a broad and diverse group of around 50 reviewers to help assess applications across a range of disciplines. We are also seeking applications from early career professionals to be an observer, giving them an opportunity to attend the panel meetings.
Fill in this form to apply by 10 May 2026.
Reviewers will be asked to:
- Assess approximately 12 applications between late May and mid-July 2026
- Attend one full online panel day on 6 or 7 July 2026 (exact date confirmed after signup)
- Commit the equivalent of around two to three working days in total
Observers will be asked to:
- Attend one full online panel day on 6 or 7 July 2026 (exact date confirmed after signup)
- Commit the equivalent of around one working day in total
This is a paid opportunity. Fees are £340 for reviewers, £460 for panel chairs, and £85 for observers. If selected, you will receive a formal invitation email with payment details and timescales. Acceptance of the role is conditional on agreeing to the terms and conditions, which will be provided at that stage.
We are looking for reviewers with expertise in one or more of the following areas:
Domain expertise
- Arts and Humanities
- Economic and Social Sciences
- Life Sciences and Biomedical Research
- Environmental Sciences, Earth Sciences and Chemistry
- Mathematical Sciences, Physics, Engineering and Computer Science
Cross-cutting expertise
- Research Software Engineering
- Community engagement
- Open source software
- Cybersecurity
- AI and machine learning
Please note:
- You cannot act as a reviewer, panel chair, or observer if you are involved in an Expression of Interest invited to submit a full application in Round 2. This includes being a Lead, Co-Lead or named team member on any full application. You can act as a reviewer if you submitted an Expression of Interest but were not invited to submit a full application.
- All reviewers and observers will be asked to declare any further conflicts of interest.
- All applications, reviews and discussions are confidential.
- You must be based in the UK or in an EU country.
Fill in this form to apply by 10 May 2026.
For more information, please contact grants@software.ac.uk or read more about the Research Software Maintenance Fund.