Recognising the rapid evolution of scientific methods, regulatory expectations, and the changing needs of the risk assessment community, a second PARC Training Needs Survey was conducted in 2025 to ensure that the second PARC training cycle remains relevant, targeted, and responsive. A two-step approach was followed: an institutional-level survey, distributed by the National Hub Contact Points to all national hub members (PARC and non-PARC), and a second individual-level survey to capture complementary, personal training needs.

Who answered the survey?

The institutional survey was completed by 52 institutions across 24 countries, while the individual survey received 66 responses from 19 countries, reaching one additional country (Estonia) and 31 additional institutions not represented at institutional level. As in 2023, most responses came from PARC members. Respondents represented a broad range of expertise across risk assessment, exposure science, toxicology, biomonitoring, epidemiology, modelling, and regulatory science, including researchers, regulators, public health professionals, and other technical experts involved in chemical risk governance. 

Feedback to PARC 1^st Training Plan (2024 and 2025)

The survey also included a section to gather feedback on the 1^st PARC Training Plan. Results showed that 73% of respondents were aware of the training offers, and almost half had participated in at least one activity. Notably, 61% of participants reported sharing insights internally, amplifying the impact of PARC training within their organisations. 

Top training priorities identified for PARC 2^nd Training Plan (2026 and 2027)

Respondents identified 135 topics, which were analysed and grouped based on thematic similarities and keyword patterns. The most frequently requested areas included several topics already addressed in PARC but which remain highly relevant, namely Health and Environmental Risk Assessment, Exposure Modelling, Tools for Mechanistic and Predictive Toxicology, and Data Management and FAIRification. In addition, new emerging priorities were identified, most notably the use of AI tools to support chemical risk assessment workflows. 

What happens next?

The PARC Training Plan for 2026–2027 is currently being finalised, with the objective of covering the identified training topics as comprehensively as possible. The plan will include in-person courses, remote trainings, webinar series, and online learning resources (to be listed in PARC repository of learning and educational materials). Importantly, all PARC training activities are open to the wider risk assessment community, not only PARC members. Details will be announced shortly on the PARC website.

Additional training needs, particularly those related to laboratory skills, will continue to be addressed through the articulation of staff exchange. PARC members interested in hosting or visiting another laboratory are encouraged to contact the coordinator of the task at carla [dot] trindadeinsa [dot] min-saude [dot] pt. 

The contributions of all respondents are gratefully acknowledged, as they continue to inform and strengthen PARC’s capacity-building strategy.