The NIAMS Scientific Review Branch (SRB) seeks reviewers
The NIAMS SRB is seeking outstanding scientists to serve as reviewers for grant applications. Some of the qualifications for being a reviewer include: a track record of published research, a record of grant funding, an interest in a broad scope of sciences, and a wide range of scientific, educational, and institutional experience. The science in the applications to be reviewed can span the entire breadth of basic, translational, and clinical science supported by NIAMS and varies significantly from one review panel to the next. Reviewers must be committed to objectivity and fairness and be willing to provide thoughtful and constructive critiques. NIAMS review panel members consist of individuals from different institutions, geographical locations, variety of academic ranks (from junior investigators to highly accomplished investigators), and backgrounds.
Reviewer Benefits
- Flexibility in submitting applications: Reviewers may be eligible to submit their own grant applications up to two weeks late for many Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs). See: NOT-OD-15-039: Simplifying the NIH Policy for Late Application Submission
- Gain insight into the NIH review process: Reviewers gain deep understanding of what is considered during NIH peer reviews.
- Learn more about NIH reviews: Reviewers stay abreast of the latest policies and review practices through reviewer trainings.
- Become a better mentor: Reviewers can guide young investigators in how to develop their career to become a successful independent researcher.
- Give back to the scientific community: Reviewers serve the scientific community, the NIH, and the public.
How to Become a Reviewer for the NIAMS SRB
If you would like to become a reviewer for the NIAMS SRB, send your resume (Word or PDF Format) to [email protected]. Please list terms that describe your areas of scientific expertise. This should consist of key words or phrases that describe your scientific and technical skills and interests.
Please let us know which types of grant mechanisms that you are interested in reviewing. This will help us find the best match for you. Having the most accurate information will help us find you when your expertise is needed.
Training Early Career-Stage Reviewers (ECR)
The NIAMS SRB is committed to training new reviewers and often recruits individuals who are in the early stage of their career development and have no previous NIH review experience. Being a reviewer has its own rewards, including improving your own grant writing skills by getting an insider’s view of how grant applications are evaluated. Send your resume (word or PDF Format) to [email protected].
Reviewer Orientation
NIAMS SROs provide an orientation session for reviewers prior to every review meeting.
The orientations share a the basic understanding of the NIH grant application review, as well as the background, objectives, and review criteria for the type of applications under review. For new reviewers, SROs also provide personalized guidance and helpful resources for all aspects of the review process. These resources include instructions for participating in a grant review, and guidance for navigating the NIH Internet Assisted Review (IAR) system. Reviewers must also complete brief training on NIH review integrity and recognizing bias.