NIH study section reviewers recently received guidance on how to apply the new requirements for increased rigor and transparency (R2T), which were implemented in January 2016. Given looming June grant deadlines, the CCTS will host its monthly forum a week earlier, on Wednesday, May 25th instead of the first Wednesday in June, to help investigators prepare.
The May 25th forum will feature a panel discussion led by select study section reviewers followed by a question and answer period. Panelists will provide tips on how to proactively address specific scored and unscored R2T criteria, including how to ensure the scientific premise of a project is sound according to NIH standards; how to address relevant biological variables, either by factoring them into the research design or controlling for them; and how to achieve the necessary level of rigor now required through the strict application of key scientific methods. The need to authenticate biological and/or chemical resources, such as reagents, currently unscored, will also be discussed.
Panelists will represent a variety of disciplines, including Drs. Yabing Chen and Jianhua Zhang, professor and associate professor, respectively, of pathology, Division of Molecular & Cellular Pathology; Dr. Rita Cowell, associate professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology; and Dr. Mohammad Athar, professor, Department of Dermatology.
The overarching goal of R2T is “to support the highest quality science, public accountability, and social responsibility in the conduct of science.” Grant reviewers play a key role, and the May 25th Forum will provide a unique opportunity to learn more about NIH assessment of R2T—attendees are encouraged to bring their questions.
To learn how to attend the Forum in person or via GoToMeeting, visit the CCTS Monthly Forum page. To learn about other CCTS activities, subscribe to the CCTS Digest and bookmark our CCTS Events page.