The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has a longstanding history of supporting the most promising and meritorious research. The increasing breadth, complexity, and interdisciplinary nature of modern research necessitated a more formal review of the NIH peer review system (Diagnostic Phase). In March 2008, the NIH released a final report, beginning the design implementation phase. NIH began implementing proposed recommendations to enhance the peer review system in September 2008, which continued into the Peer Review Process & Changes phase through summer 2009.  The next major milestone was the transition to Shortened/Restructured applications, which commenced with the January 25, 2010 due date.  To ensure NIH continues to “fund the best science, by the best scientists, with the least amount of administrative burden,” the Continuous Review of Peer Review was incorporated into the process.

Phases of Process

Fund the best science, by the best scientists,
with the least amount of administrative burden.