An Expert Task Group (ETG) is formed to develop the requests for proposals (RFPs) to conduct research once a Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC) has defined the problem identified in the SHRP 2 plan and broadly determined the scope of research to address the problem.

Service on a SHRP 2 ETG has proven to be a short but sometimes intense experience. Appointments are officially for one year, but because SHRP 2 operates under the compressed schedule of a short-term program, ETGs typically conclude their work within three months. During that time, there will be two meetings in Washington, one to develop the RFP and one to select the winning proposal. Between the two meetings, the ETG members will review all the proposals received and rank each according to criteria established in the RFP.

Occasionally, an ETG will be formed to provide specialized technical expertise for tasks other than developing RFPs, such as project scoping or assisting a TCC in project monitoring. In such cases, the schedules and missions will be defined according to the specific tasks.

ETG members are selected for their knowledge and experience in specific areas of inquiry, but because SHRP 2 integrates research topics across traditionally distinct areas, ETG members may find it useful to refer to background materials during the RFP development process, which also adds to the demands on their time.

Additionally, the National Academies has a formal process for establishing the credentials and examining the biases and possible conflicts of interest of those who agree to serve on committees of various kinds. ETG members are required to complete a few forms and to provide a resume and a brief biography as conditions of service.

We ask a lot, but we really appreciate your work!