Update on NIH Biosketches and Other Support

Dear Colleagues,

As we said in the special training grants biosketch meeting on March 24, and for the broader research community on April 6, we are trying to provide real-time updates as NIH provides clarifications to the new Biosketch and Other Support requirements.  We understand that, in response to advocacy by COGR and other associations, NIH will be issuing another Guide Notice soon, and that it will clarify that the new forms are strongly encouraged but not required until January 2022.  We also understand that NIH will specify a limited look-back period for the Section B. Positions, Scientific Appointments and Honors of the Biosketch.  Although this is not yet confirmed, we encourage you to prioritize disclosure of Scientific Appointments held during the last three years, both domestic and foreign, including any affiliations with foreign entities or governments. A scientific appointment can include participation in study sections, membership in a scientific society, board membership, and some consulting appointments.

All positions, however, should be included. This includes employment history or any kind of institutional appointment, whether or not remuneration is received, and whether full-time, part-time, or voluntary (including adjunct, visiting, or honorary).

We continue to encourage you to register for one of the upcoming Other Support webinars.  Even assuming the deadline for new forms is extended, the changes are significant and researchers will need lead time to respond.  We are optimistic NIH will provide additional guidance in the coming weeks. In the meantime, please feel free to send any questions to your SPA Project Officer.