The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has introduced a Simplified Review Framework for research project grant applications, effective January 25, 2025. This new approach consolidates the five previous review criteria into three main factors:
-
Importance of the Research (Significance and Innovation)
-
Rigor and Feasibility (Approach)
-
Expertise and Resources (Investigator and Environment).
The goal is to streamline the review process, minimize bias related to investigator reputation, and keep the focus on scientific merit. Reviewers will now assess Expertise and Resources as either sufficient or not, requiring justification if deemed insufficient. These changes do not alter how applicants prepare submissions. NIH has provided detailed reviewer guidance, an applicant guide, and a podcast explaining the framework. More information is available on the NIH Nexus website.