A revised version of the National Science Foundation (NSF) Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) (NSF 20-1) has been issued and will be effective for proposals submitted or due, and awards made, on or after June 1, 2020. Significant changes include:
- NSF-approved format in submission of the biographical sketch and current and pending support documents, once the PAPPG (NSF 20-1) becomes effective. NSF is partnering with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to use SciENcv: Science Experts Network Curriculum Vitae as an NSF-approved format for preparation of both documents. Use of an NSF-approved format will not be required until implementation of PAPPG 20-1 on June 1, 2020. To assist the community, NSF has developed websites with additional information for the preparation of the biographical sketch and current and pending support. NSF will post fillable pdfs for both the biosketch form and current and pending support in February and March 2020 that will also be considered approved formats. The Office of Sponsored Programs is making available a step-by-step guidance document for preparing a biosketch in SciENcv.
- Appointments section in the Biosketch must include any titled academic, professional or institutional position whether or not remuneration is received.
- Separate section in the project description no longer needs to include Intellectual Merit.
- New requirement for providing e-mail documentation of Program Officer approval for the submission of RAPID and EAGER proposals; and
- Clarifications to current and pending support coverage: Current and pending support includes all resources made available to an individual in support of and/or related to all of his/her research efforts, regardless of whether or not they have monetary value. Current and pending support also includes in-kind contributions (such as office/laboratory space, equipment, supplies, employees, students26. In-kind contributions not intended for use on the project/proposal being proposed also must be reported27.
NSF plans to conduct a webinar covering these changes on February 6 at 2PM EST. Visit the webinar website to register for this event.
While this version of the PAPPG becomes effective on June 1, 2020, in the interim, the guidelines contained in the current PAPPG (NSF 19-1) continue to apply.