ERA-CAPS has a clearly defined management structure designed to facilitate the smooth-running of the programmes and ensure that the objectives are met. The management framework is based on a two-tiered structure, supported by a central office.
The Programme Coordination Office (PCO) established a secretariat at the coordinators location (BBSRC, UK). The PCO has the following responsibilities:
The High-Level Group (HLG) is composed of high level representatives from each
consortium partner. The HLG has the overall responsibility for:
In addition, along with the Management Board, the HLG also has a general responsibility for the dissemination of information and promotion of the program.
The Management Board (MB) is composed of program managers from each partner and is chaired by the central coordinator. The MB is responsible for:
The Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) is composed of eminent scientists (8-12) from partner countries as well as other countries, including those outside of Europe. The SAB is responsible for:
Organisations who were unable to commit to being a full partner at the start of the network but who have an interest in the content of this programme, are offered observer status. This allows them access to the information gathered during the program, and to the intranet. Representatives from organizations with observer status are also invited to attend meetings at the discretion of the Program Coordination Office (on the advice of the HLG and MB). The main differences between observers and full partners are that Observers will not have any voting rights and will not receive funds for staff resource (‘person months’).
At all levels of administration and management ERA-CAPS is dedicated to promoting equal opportunities. Many of the partners have formally implemented national strategies to ensure gender balance and reduce various other forms of discrimination. ERA-CAPS has adopted and promotes these policies to augment fair working arrangements throughout all levels of the network activity.