This section covers how applications are reviewed at NOAA. This information is important for applicants, so that they know how their proposals are being reviewed, and for anyone interested in being a grant reviewer for NOAA.
Selection Process
2 CFR 200 Appendix I, Number 4: Evaluation Criteria
- This section of the federal regulations outlines the importance of including clear evaluation criteria in a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Specifically, it requires agencies to describe how applications will be reviewed and scored, ensuring a transparent and fair process for applicants. Key elements include a description of evaluation criteria, assigned weights or priorities, and details of the review process.
- For applicants, this means you can use the evaluation criteria section of the NOFO to understand how your proposal will be assessed and tailor your application to address these factors effectively.
- The timeline for reviewing proposals and announcing funding decisions varies based on the competition and fiscal year. Please review the NOFO for specifics about the funding and decision-making timeline.
- NOAA relies on the expertise and perspectives of grant reviewers to ensure a fair and thorough evaluation of grant applications. Reviewers play a critical role in helping NOAA identify the most promising projects that align with its mission to understand and protect our oceans, coasts, atmosphere, and climate.
What Does a NOAA Grant Reviewer Do?
- Evaluate Applications: Assess grant proposals based on established criteria provided by NOAA.
- Provide Feedback: Offer constructive comments and scores to guide NOAA’s funding decisions.
- Participate in Panels: Some reviewers join virtual or in-person review panels to discuss applications with other experts. For training on mitigating bias in the review process, please see the Bias Awareness Information for NOAA Reviewers Video.
Who Can Be a Reviewer?
NOAA seeks individuals from diverse backgrounds, including scientists, educators, practitioners, and community leaders, depending on the focus of the particular NOFO topic. Reviewers do not need a NOAA affiliation—rather, expertise in relevant fields and a commitment to fair and unbiased evaluation are the primary requirements. Once reviewers are in eRA, they have to certify their lack of conflict of interest.
Benefits of Being a Reviewer
- Improve Your Grant Writing and Application Skills: Gain insights into what makes a successful application and improve your own grant writing skills. As a reviewer, you get to see the review process from the inside to learn what the agency looks for in an application, strengthening your chances at successful future applications!
- Expand Your Network: Connect with NOAA and other experts in your field.
- Contribute to NOAA’s Mission: Support advancements in science, education, and conservation efforts.
- Learn from Others: Gain insights into innovative projects and the latest cutting-edge research.
- Give Back: Use this as an opportunity to strengthen the larger science community, local and communal efforts, or research.
- Long-Term Relationships: Build long-term partnerships with other reviewers and NOAA.
- Honorariums: Some non-federal reviewers are eligible for honorarium to compensate for their time and expertise. Please keep in mind that this depends on the program and funding availability, so make sure to ask.
How to Get Involved
If you’re interested in becoming a NOAA grant reviewer, please reach out to the competition manager listed on the NOFO. Your expertise can help NOAA make a lasting impact!