NIGMS supports a wide range of research, training, workforce development, and institutional capacity building grants in the biomedical sciences. While NIH’s Center for Scientific Review reviews the majority of our investigator-initiated research grants (read our post on NIGMS RPGs), NIGMS has its own scientific review branch (SRB) that manages the review of applications to programs in workforce development and in research capacity building (past posts on training and capacity building provide more information). These programs often require reviewers with unique experiences, in addition to scientific or technical expertise. Thus, SRB is always searching for volunteers with varying experiences and scientific expertise from all career stages, funding and review experiences, geographic locations, and institution types to provide expert reviews. Some examples include individuals familiar with research training programs, institutional administration, faculty mentorship, Tribal communities, and people with experience conducting research in states that are eligible for Institutional Development Awards.
Why Should I Become a Reviewer?
Being a reviewer for NIGMS has many advantages. You gain firsthand experience in the grant review process, which may help you when preparing and submitting your own NIH grant applications. It can also be beneficial in other types of grant writing and help you better mentor others in crafting their applications. In addition, the experience offers an opportunity to play a key part in the Institute’s efforts to support the development of the scientific research workforce.
How Do I Volunteer?
If you’re interested in peer review, we encourage you to read our page, Becoming a Reviewer for NIGMS. This page provides access to an online interest form you may complete. Completing this form doesn’t obligate you to become a reviewer, but it makes your name and information available to scientific review officers who assemble the review panels. We will contact you if your skills match the particular needs of a panel we’re assembling.
The easiest way for us to learn of your background and interests is for you to fill out our volunteer reviewer form. We await your submission!