NIH Closes Doors for Secret Grant Review Sessions
Published Date: 5/12/2026
Notice
Summary
The Center for Scientific Review is holding several closed virtual meetings in late May and June 2026 to review important grant applications. These meetings protect private info and trade secrets while deciding which research projects get funding. Scientists and research institutions waiting on grants should note these dates as they impact funding decisions.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Grant review dates affect applicants
The Center for Scientific Review will hold closed virtual grant-review meetings on May 29, 2026; June 11, 2026; June 15-16, 2026; and June 16, 2026. If you are a scientist or research institution waiting on NIH grant decisions, these meetings set the dates when your applications will be reviewed and therefore affect the timing of funding decisions.
Confidentiality protections for applicants
The meetings are closed under 5 U.S.C. 552b(c)(4) and (c)(6) to protect confidential trade secrets, commercial property like patentable material, and personal information about individuals linked to grant applications. This protects applicants' proprietary information and personal privacy during the review process.
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