Guest Post by Dr. David Widmer
Writing fundable NIH research grant proposals is a chronic challenge that looms intimidatingly over many PIs. Yet most do not make use of a key resource available to them that has been shown to increase chances of submitting a winning grant: the NIH PO.
POs are the primary points of contact between the grantee, the scientific community, and the NIH, as the senior-level technical representative of NIH responsible for a federal grants and contracts portfolio.
One of the main responsibilities in a PO’s job description is to support and guide the PI throughout the grant lifecycle.
The PO can provide useful feedback on how to make a well-structured and compelling grant proposal, including advising on research design and assisting with administrative and technical issues related to the project. They can guide the PI on the funding opportunities available or those to be released in the near future. They also have insights into the peer-review process and what the reviewers are looking for when evaluating grant proposals.
When a PI communicates proactively with a PO, it can help to establish trust, influence positive outcomes for the grant application, and create an environment of mutual support. Effective communication between a PO and a PI during the application process can translate not just into boosting the likelihood of the grant being awarded, but also to enhancing the PI’s own career-long grant skills.
Updated NIH NOFOs
February 21, 2025
