Why PeerCore?

It happens even with the most experienced researchers: you have been invited to peer-review a paper or a grant proposal but are having second thoughts. 

“Do I have enough experience or the right expertise to peer review this study?” “How should I approach this task, what should I do first?” “Should I accept this invitation?’

Peer-review remains essential for safeguarding the integrity of the scientific record, advancing knowledge, and is crucial for evidence-based approaches in our field. 

Yet in toxicology, the task of critically appraising a study can be even harder, given the multiplicity of study types, methodologies, and regulations available in different countries.

To address this problem, EBTC is running PeerCore, a four-month hands-on program to develop confidence and skills in peer review in toxicology and environmental health.

PeerCore will support toxicologists, regulators, authors, and editors, or simply someone about to start peer reviewing. 

We expect the program to be of particular interest to early career researchers, but there will be something for everyone. 
 

When is PeerCore running?

PeerCore is running from late October 2026 through to January 2027.

With an event approximately every 2 weeks, PeerCore will consist of 6 modules interspersed with interesting "sidebar" events, including lectures, expert Q&A, and interactive workshops.
 

What topics will PeerCore cover?

PeerCore will provide a thorough grounding in the issues around peer-review, designed to improve anyone's confidence in engaging with the process.

PeerCore modules will cover:

• The value of peer-review to researchers and the scientific community
• When to say yes to an invitation to review (and when to say no!)
• Taking a breath: what to do before you start commenting on a paper
• The nuts and bolts of manuscript evaluation itself
• How to communicate effectively with authors - and editors

Topics for sidebar discussions will include whether peer-reviewers should be paid for their work, how editors think about the review process, the use of ChatGPT and other AI tools in peer-review, and the pros and cons of open and signed peer-review.
 

How do I sign up?

Sign up to the PeerCore mailing list for event announcements and other updates, and come to whatever you are interested in!