Recap: NIH peer review changes and guidance

Stay up to date about NIH peer review by visiting the Enhancing Peer Review at NIH website.  As the NIH works to implement the new peer review process, which involves a new nine-point rating scale, shorter applications, new Early Stage Investigator and New Investigator status (among other things), this site can help you navigate the turbulent waters of change. Not only are there valuable tips for investigators preparing their next submissions, but there is also helpful guidance for reviewers as they transition to the new rating system and a useful timeline outlining the stages of implementation.

Here are the new components of the enhanced peer review system that your proposal will be evaluated under if you submit now: proposed projects will be evaluated using the new 9-point scoring scale, you will only be able to submit a single re-submission of that application (if submitting it for the first time after January 2009 – read the announcement for details), and you will be evaluated using early stage investigator (ESI) or new investigator (NI) status, if applicable. Future changes include a shorter application for R01 grants, slated to be rolled out in January 2010.

The Enhancing Peer Review at NIH website has a wealth of information, including a Frequently Asked Questions page that is most helpful.

Research Funding & Development Services (RFDS) also plans to host a brownbag session soon to discuss application changes as a result of the new scoring system. Stay tuned for details…