Next month we’ll see some changes to the NIH grant applications, requiring the use of new forms and new instructions (including shorter page limits!).

Application Structure NIH is restructuring the applications by aligning the structure and content with review criteria. This alignment will help ensure that both reviewer and applicant expectations coincide for a more efficient and transparent application process.  Note that the new application forms incorporate the enhanced peer review criteria for research grants and cooperative agreements that was announced in NOT-OD-09-025.

Application Length NIH is shortening page limits for competing applications to help reduce the administrative burden placed upon applicants, reviewers, and staff. This change seeks to focus applicants and reviewers on the essentials of the science that are needed for a fair and comprehensive review of the application. Shorter applications may have additional benefits for reviewers such as mitigating information overload, and/or enabling a larger number of reviewers to read each application and participate in review in a more informed manner.  How did NIH make the decision to shorten applications?

For more information:

• Enhancing Peer Review at NIH – Shortened/Restructured Applications
• Restructured Application Forms and Instructions for Application Due Dates on or after January 25, 2010 (11/23/09)
• Details of Application Changes for Research Grants and Cooperative Agreements (for due dates on or after January 25, 2010) (11/05/09)
• New NIH forms raise concerns by Bob Grant at The Scientist
• Do new NIH grant apps favor veteran researchers? at The Scientist Community