The New Open Suite of Programs and Peer Review Process - Transition

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Overview

The implementation of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) design for the new Open Suite of Programs and peer review processes represents a significant change for the research community. CIHR recognizes the importance of carefully managing the implications for researchers who are supported by CIHR's existing Open Suite of Programs, and is committed to minimizing disruptions.

CIHR will be taking a measured approach to implementing the changes. The transition plan includes piloting key elements of the design, phasing-in the new programs and gradually phasing-out the existing Open programs. It is our intention to keep the research community informed of any changes to the transition plan as the Open Suite of Programs and peer review enhancements are implemented.

Piloting Peer Review Design Elements

CIHR will conduct various pilot studies and tests of the new design between early 2013 and mid-2016. These pilots will assess the proposed design elements, new processes, and systems. If significant changes are required to the design as a result of the outcomes of the pilots, timelines for the overall transition will be adjusted. It is our intent to share our findings with the research community, and contribute to the body of literature on peer review.

Phasing-in the New Programs and College of Reviewers

The phase-in of the new Open funding schemes will occur over the course of several competition cycles. It will begin with the launch of two Foundation Scheme "live pilot" competitions with application deadlines scheduled for fall 2014 and 2015. The first regular Foundation competition application deadline is scheduled for fall 2016. The first Project Scheme competition application deadline is scheduled for spring 2016.

To support the new peer review process, the College of Reviewers will be built as a collaborative national resource that will focus on the recruitment, orientation, performance management, and recognition of reviewers. The College will be implemented in phases between spring 2013 and 2016.

CIHR is committed to ensuring that adequate time and support is available to help the research community navigate through this transition period.

Transitioning from Existing Programs and Processes

CIHR recognizes the importance of carefully managing the implications for grantees that are currently supported by CIHR's existing Open Suite of Programs. CIHR will hold two more Open Operating Grant Program competitions (fall 2013 and spring 2014). There will also be a transitional Open Operating Grant Program competition in spring 2015, which will be held in parallel to the first "live pilot" of the Foundation Scheme. Other existing Open programs will be phased-out after the launch of the first Project Scheme competition.

CIHR recognizes that changing application deadlines may have an impact on currently funded researchers, as well as unfunded researchers seeking support. In August 2013, CIHR announced the eligibility criteria for the Foundation Scheme “live pilot” competitions. Further details regarding this new funding program will be provided in late 2013.

Transition Timelines

Long description

This figure illustrates the transition timelines for the piloting of peer review design elements, the phasing-in of the new Open Suite of Programs and peer review process, and the phasing-out of existing programs.

  • Piloting Stage: Winter 2013 – Spring 2016
  • Phase-in Stage: Summer 2014 – Summer 2016
  • Phase-out Stage: Spring 2015 – TBD (optimal grantee intake is achieved)