NIH Scientists Meet in Secret, Won't Say Why
Published Date: 12/15/2025
Notice
Summary
The Center for Scientific Review is holding several closed virtual meetings in January 2026 to review and decide on important grant applications. These meetings protect private info and trade secrets while helping fund exciting research in behavioral science, public health, and cancer. If you’re involved in these fields, keep an eye on these dates—they’re key to getting research support rolling!
Analyzed Economic Effects
8 provisions identified: 8 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Career Development (K) Awards Reviewed Jan 13
On January 13, 2026, a closed virtual panel will review Career Development (K) grant applications in behavioral science. The meetings are closed to protect confidential trade secrets and personal information while deciding which applications move forward for funding.
Public Health Applications Reviewed Jan 14
On January 14, 2026, a closed virtual Special Emphasis Panel will review grant applications on social and community influences and public health approaches. The panel will evaluate and decide on funding while protecting confidential and personal information.
Oncology Fellowships Reviewed Jan 15
On January 15, 2026, a closed virtual panel will review fellowship (oncology) grant applications to evaluate and rank candidates for funding. The meetings are closed to protect applicants' confidential and proprietary information.
Nutrition, Obesity, Diabetes Research Reviewed Jan 16
On January 16, 2026, a closed virtual PAR panel will review grant applications for behavioral interventions related to nutrition, diet, obesity, and diabetes. Panels will review and evaluate applications while keeping personal and proprietary information confidential.
Small Business Grant Panel Meets Jan 22
On January 22, 2026, a closed virtual panel titled 'Small Business: Cell, Molecular Biology, Instrumentation, and Assay Development' will review and evaluate small-business grant applications. The meetings are closed to protect confidential trade secrets and personal information of applicants.
Environmental Health Disparities Centers Reviewed Jan 27-28
On January 27–28, 2026, a closed virtual panel will review applications for RFA‑MD‑24‑010: Environmental Health Disparities Centers (P50). The panel will evaluate grant applications and protect confidential and proprietary applicant information.
Institutional Training Panel Meets Jan 28-29
On January 28–29, 2026, a closed virtual Institutional Training and Education Review Panel will review and evaluate grant applications for institutional training programs. Meetings are closed to protect confidential information about applicants and institutions.
Cancer Center Support Grants Reviewed Jan 28-29
On January 28–29, 2026, a closed virtual PAR‑21‑321 panel will review Cancer Center Support Grant applications to evaluate and rank candidates for funding. The meetings will protect applicants' confidential and proprietary information.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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The Center for Scientific Review is holding a closed virtual meeting on January 9, 2026, to review grant applications about infectious disease and immunology. These meetings are private to protect secret research ideas and personal info. Scientists applying for grants and NIH staff are the main players, with no new costs or deadlines announced.
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