Interacting with Program Officers, Part Two

Transcript:

Now that you've scored a phone call or in-person meeting, this video focuses on the program officer's expectations and share some advice on questions for the program officer.

Program officers want to connect with researchers. They want to build relationships with the scientific community. They desire to fund the best science and advance the mission of the funding agency. They do NOT want to review applications that are not aligned with program priorities and they don't want researchers to waste time writing applications that are not a fit for the program. Also, they are looking for experts to serve on review panels and future working groups or task forces.

During the visit, the program officer will expect you:
• To discuss your project and its relevance to the funding agency
• To ask questions
• And to listen to his or her advice.

From the program officer's perspective, a successful meeting will:
• Result in a better understanding of the potential project
• Discover how the project fits the agency's priorities
• And find new expert reviewers to serve on review panels.

From the researcher's perspective, a successful meeting will:
• Result in a better understanding of program priorities and the review process
• Produce ideas to revise the project
• Find out information to determine whether to submit the proposal -- or not
• Earn a possible contact to find additional funding opportunities
• And provide an avenue for future communication by email or phone.

There are a few questions you should NEVER ask the program officer.

• "Will this project be funded?" Program officers cannot predict how reviewers will score/rank applications.
• "Who is on the review panel?" Although NIH publishes names of charter study section members on the internet, most funding agencies keep this information confidential.
• "When does the review panel meet?" Although NIH publishes the date of study section meetings on the internet, most funding agencies do not disclose this information. Wait to be notified – do NOT contact program officers about the status of an application.
• Did Dr. "X" submit an application or get funded by this program?" Information regarding applications is confidential. Most agencies provide information on awards on the internet.
• "Will you give me a copy of Dr. "X's" application that was funded?" NO. You can ask Dr. "X" for a copy of the application.
• "Will a letter of support from my Congress person give me a better chance of getting funded?" NO.

Instead, ask:

• Does the project fit the current priorities? If not, are there suggestions to alter the project or other programs?
• What can be done to improve the chances of a favorable review?
• What are the most common reasons a proposal is rejected?
• What are some of the main concerns you've had with past proposals responding to this solicitation?
• Are there any new or emerging areas of interest in the program?
• What area of science are they really focusing on now or in the next year to two years?

Following this advice will result in a positive visit with the program officer. Should you need assistance in connecting with the program officer, ask a member of the Office of Research Development today.