NIH released a guide notice (NOT-OD-24-084) that provides an overview of recent changes made to help the community contextualize them as details are released. NIH has also developed this video (25 min) to provide an overview of the following changes:

1. Simplified review criteria for most research project grants.
2. Revisions to the fellowship application and review process.
3. Updates to reference letter guidance.
4. Updated application forms (FORMS-I)
5. Common Forms for biographical sketch and current and pending (other) support

NIH's two new updates for due dates on or after January 25, 2025

• The announcement of changes to their peer review framework for most Research Project Grant (RPG) applications to address the complexity of the process, reduce reviewer burden, and mitigate bias. There is a webinar scheduled for tomorrow on this topic - https://grants.nih.gov/learning-center/srf-updates-to-funding-opportunities. You can also read more about the new framework here: https://grants.nih.gov/policy/peer/simplifying-review/framework.htm
• NIH has revised the fellowship application and review process used to evaluate fellowship applications and modifying the PHS Fellowship Supplemental Form to align with the restructured review criteria.
• NIH has updated the instructions for reference letters submitted for due dates on or after January 25, 2025 to provide more structure so letters will better assist reviewers in understanding the candidate’s strengths, weaknesses, and potential to pursue a productive career in biomedical science. 
• The announcement of the release of “Forms-I” grant application forms and instructions.

NIH's update for due dates on or after May 25, 2025

• NIH is adopting the Biographical Sketch Common Form and the Current and Pending (Other) Support Common Form in 2025. Information on the timing and details of implementation are expected in the coming months.

Please let Project Planning and Development (ORSPppd@marquette.edu) know if you have any questions about these changes.