What
Through the CCTS Panels Program, investigators can garner feedback on planned research or career development proposals. CCTS staff work with each investigator to assemble a small panel of subject‑matter experts, methodologists and/or scientific mentors to gain insight into reviewers’ interpretation of the proposed research, ask clarifying questions, explore alternative approaches, and discuss alignment with funder priorities. To support investigators beyond the discussion itself, the program includes guidance on how to prepare for the Panel and a post‑meeting summary highlighting key takeaways.
Why
Panels are designed to strengthen proposals before submission by:
- Discussing research questions and specific aims
- Identifying opportunities to strengthen scientific rigor and feasibility
- Clarifying alignment with funding agency priorities
- Providing actionable, constructive feedback at a critical stage of proposal development
Who
The Panels Program is pleased to work with faculty across the career arc, especially early stage investigators seeking targeted feedback on extramural research grant or career development proposals in preparation. Trainees (pre/postdoc, residents, fellows) wishing to leverage advanced peer review should contact the CCTS to learn of other available options.
When
Our program recommends requesting a panel at least two months prior to a planned submission date. This allows our program staff time to identify reviewers, coordinate schedules, reviewers’ assessment of proposals before the panel, and investigators’ incorporation of feedback before submission. The Panel Program cannot support requests less than six (6) weeks before an extramural deadline.
Where
Panels are conducted via a one‑hour virtual meeting.
How
To request a Panel:
- Complete the Panel Request Form, which will ask for:
- A rough draft of your specific aims or abstract is necessary at onset (used by CCTS staff to identify appropriate reviewers). While this document will not be shared, a succinct list of project goals, hypothesis and bullet-point aims will be used to recruit panelists.
- Your availability
- Suggestions of reviewers to include or exclude
- CCTS staff will acknowledge your request and begin assembling a Panel, informed by individuals you’d like invite, field-aligned expertise, and programmatic suggestions.
- At least one week prior to the Panel, investigators can provide updated documents to be distributed to reviewers for their advance review.
Notes on Artificial Intelligence:
- Recipients (i.e. institutions, investigators) are accountable for the responsible conduct of research, and therefore responsible use of AI.
- Follow funding agencies’ policies related to the use of AI in the development of applications (e.g. NIH guidance and policies on use of AI in the development of applications and peer reviews; NSF research misconduct policy).
- The UAB School of Medicine “Digital Service Unit” offers secure, institutionally approved AI tools, including a grant editor. A UAB BlazerID is currently required to access these tools. Learn more.
Questions?
Please contact ccts@uab.edu for additional information.