Scientific Peer Review

When the federal or state government disseminates scientific information or funds research proposals, it is critical that the proposed information be scientifically feasible and have verifiable technical merit. Through a customizable peer review process using an external network of industry-specific experts, Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) is helping government agencies make informed decisions about the quality of the science they pursue.

ORAU Streamlines the Scientific Peer Review Process to Ensure the Best Use of Research Funding

Through a proven and respected peer and merit review process, we help our customers make informed decisions on how best to invest their research dollars.

Our effective peer review management program provides decision makers with independent perspectives from experts who are knowledgeable in the subject area being reviewed. These experts submit rankings and qualitative reviews that can be used in judging research proposals with the highest technical merit.

During the 2010 fiscal year, we conducted 93 scientific peer reviews involving 3,910 reviewers. These reviews included 4,775 research proposals, risk assessments, postdoctoral applications, research program evaluations, abstracts, ongoing research projects, applications for user facility time, and technical work products. Reviews of research proposals were used by sponsors to allocate $1.62 billion in research awards.

Feature

PeerNet

The State of ORAU’s PeerNet—Today and Tomorrow

Recently, ORAU finished the first half of a major update to PeerNet. This project, which will be completed at the end of FY11 (September), is designed to continue the evolution of PeerNet to fit both current and future customers’ needs.