Open MERIT: Responsible research assessment, done right.

General Information

1. What is the MERIT Application Builder? The MERIT Application Builder is an online tool developed to help researchers and professionals create a structured narrative CV that aligns with best practices in research assessment.

2. Who can use the MERIT Application Builder? The website is designed for researchers, academics, and professionals seeking to produce structured applications for job or grant applications, project proposals, or other academic research environments.

3. Is the MERIT Application Builder free to use? Yes, the MERIT Application Builder is free to use.

Data protection

4. Can some one else see my application? No, only you have access to your application. There are stored to your personal account. The data are not forwarded to any internal or to external parties. 

5. What happens to my data?  We automatically and irreversibly delete all data 4 weeks after you first started your application. Make sure to download your application to save your data for future reuse. Within the 8 weeks period, you can permanently delete your applications at any time. 

Account and Login

6. How do I register for the MERIT Application Builder? You only need an active email address to register. Click the "Registration” button on the website and follow the instructions. You will receive an email to activate your account.

7. What should I do if I forget my password? Click on the "Forgot password" link on the login page and follow the prompts to reset your password. You will receive an email with instructions.

Using the MERIT Application Builder

8. How do I start creating an application? Once logged in, click on "Home" and click on the research environment for which you would like to create an application. Create a title for your application, and then click 'Create Application'. Accept the data protection notice and follow the step-by-step process to input your personal details, publications, projects, and other relevant information.

9. Can I continue my application later? Yes, make sure you hit “Save” each time you add information. You can always recover your application by going to the “My Applications” link at the top of the website.

10. How do I add my publications? Publications can be easily added through our integration with OpenAlex. In the Publications tab, click on the Open Alex API and search for your name. Select your record and your publications will be automatically imported. You can edit them later 

11. Does the builder support multiple languages? Currently, the builder supports English and German. 

12. How can I get a copy of my application? You can export your application to pdf or .doc format in the 'Overview and Download' Section. 

Support

13. What should I do if the website is not loading properly? Ensure you are using a supported browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, or Edge) and have a stable internet connection. Clear your browser cache and try again. If the problem persists, contact the MERIT team.

14. How do I report a bug or issue? Contact the support team:

Dr. Miriam Kip: miriam.kip[at]bih-charite.de

Dr. Sebastian Major: sebsatian.major[at]charite.de

Carolyn Capelouto: carolyn.capelouto[at]charite.de 

15. My organization is interested in the MERIT Portal. Who can we contact? 

The MERIT Portal is an in-house development of Charité and the BIH. A white label version is available to external interested parties for non-profit use and joint further development. Please contact us for further information:

Dr. Miriam Kip: miriam.kip[at]bih-charite.de

Dr. Sebastian Major: sebsatian.major[at]charite.de

Carolyn Capelouto: carolyn.capelouto[at]charite.de