The NIGMS mission includes the support of basic research and research training of the highest quality in the areas of biophysics and physiological sciences, cellular and molecular biology, genetics, and the pharmacological and biorelated chemical sciences.
In addition, the Institute promotes the broadest possible diversity of ideas and approaches to these scientific areas, and encourages the ideas and talents of established investigators and of the new investigators who will provide the next generation of research accomplishments.
In order to achieve these goals, research grant applications recommended for approval by the National Advisory General Medical Sciences (NAGMS) Council are considered for funding using the following criteria:
- scientific and technical merit of the research, as determined by peer review;
- scientific program needs and balance; and
- the availability of funds.
The NAGMS Council has recommended that the Institute scientific staff take additional factors into account in making funding decisions.
- In determining whether or not to make an award, Institute staff should give special consideration to a highly rated application from a new investigator or from other applicant investigators who have no other significant source of research support.
- In determining the appropriate funding level for competing continuation awards, the Institute scientific staff will consider:
(1) the previously awarded level of support;
(2) special needs for equipment;
(3) whether the application is the first renewal of an investigator's initial NIH research grant.
Support of Research in Well-Funded Laboratories
Well-funded laboratories are defined as those with over $750,000 in direct costs for research support, inclusive of the pending application.
- Competing continuation grant applications (Type 2s)
The Council expects the Institute to employ its usual standards and consideration for funding as it handles competing continuation applications from well-funded laboratories. The expectation is that Type 2 applications from well-funded laboratories will receive normal consideration for funding. Specific exceptions to this general policy will be discussed with the Council, and Institute staff will be guided by the sense of Council in making funding decisions.
- New grant applications (Type 1s)
The Council expects the Institute to support new projects in well-funded laboratories only when distinctively promising work will be pursued. The Institute's default position is to not pay such applications. However, under special circumstances and with strong justification, staff may recommend overriding the default position. Council must approve the recommendation.
- Budget considerations
The Council expects the Institute to implement, where appropriate, reasoned budget reductions greater than those dictated by the cost-management principles for both Type 1 and 2 awards made to well-funded laboratories.
