Introduction to stock assessment
Unit 4.2: Participating in peer review meetings
Photo credit: DFO
Inclusive participation in peer review meetings generates a full and open discussion. It brings conflicting viewpoints to the table and draws in scientific findings that may not otherwise be considered. Participation in CSAS peer review meetings is by non-transferrable invitation only to experts.
Experts may include participants from:
- DFO
- other federal, provincial, or territorial government departments
- Indigenous Nations, communities or organizations
- industry
- academia
- non-government organizations (NGOs)
- international organizations
Steering Committees must ensure that the size of participant lists are manageable for the format of the meeting to achieve a thorough discussion. The final participants list should reflect:
- the nature of the issue
- expertise required
- diversity of scientific information and schools of thought on the topic
- local and Indigenous Knowledge Holders as appropriate
Participants must have the expertise required to:
- engage constructively in questions
- comment on and challenge the scientific information and interpretations presented
Such expertise may include:
- demonstrable, comprehensive, and authoritative scientific knowledge or related background and working experience
- local knowledge and Indigenous Ways of Knowing
Participants are expected to remain and participate for the full duration of the meeting. They must play an active role in reaching consensus on conclusions. They must commit to taking part as objective experts (for example, not advocating or actively representing an interest group, political group, client, or proponent).
To maximize the diversity of external experts invited to peer review meetings, DFO has established a Registry for External Science Experts. This registry allows individuals outside of the Department to:
- self-identify their relevant expertise
- express their willingness to participate in scientific peer review processes
In addition, the Department established the External Expert Identification Committee to identify external experts and co-chairs for peer review processes.
For more information, click here for the CSAS Policy on Participation in Science Peer Review Meetings and the Participant's Guide to Peer Review Meetings.
- Date modified: