Award application review process
TSNRP employs a rigorous, three-step review process for all award applications. This process ensures that we fund the most promising research in the field of military nursing. The process is outlined below:
- Scientific Review – A panel of senior nurse scientists evaluates and scores each application. Military nurse scientists from each of the three services assess the feasibility of the proposed study in the military setting, but do not indicate a score. Each proposal is evaluated for scientific and technical merit, independent of other submissions.
- Programmatic Review — The TSNRP Advisory Council evaluates applications after scientific review. Proposals are evaluated for their feasibility and relevance to our research priorities and portfolio.
- Final Review— The TSNRP Executive Board of Directors makes the final funding determinations for all applications. Decisions are based on our mission and focus areas, outcomes of the scientific merit and programmatic reviews, and recommendations of the Advisory Council.
Throughout each step, two independent observers ensure that Scientific Reviewers, Advisory Council members, and Executive Board of Directors follow ethical and scientific rules of conduct. TSNRP staff provides support for all levels of the review process.
Applicants are notified of funding decisions as soon as possible. For all outcomes, applicants receive copies of the scientific and programmatic review summaries created during the grant evaluation process. There are four possible outcomes:
- Fund As Is – The TSNRP executive board of directors finds the proposal acceptable in all areas. No additional changes or stipulations are required.
- Fund with Stipulations – The TSNRP Executive Board of Directors has found significant interest in this protocol; however, there are certain stipulations that must be met prior to the actual award being granted.
- Revise and Resubmit – The TSNRP Executive Board of Directors will consider seeing the revised protocol only with all major suggestions/stipulations addressed and with sufficient documentation. It is up to the applicant to resubmit.
- Do Not Fund – The TSNRP Executive Board of Directors considers this proposal no longer a topic of interest or its presentation is significantly flawed. Please do not re-submit.
NEXT STEPS
Congratulations! You've received funding for your research study. You may be asking, "What do I do now?"
Managing your award can seem like a complicated process. The information in this section can help you determine what comes next in the life of your grant and help you stay on top of deadlines and requirements.
If you have any questions during the management of your grant, contact us through your grantee organization for guidance.
LIFE CYCLE OF A TSNRP AWARD
Step 1: Sign Assistance Award Agreement
Sign and return the grant agreement and any other forms as soon as possible to confirm your funding.
Step 2: Submit IRB/IACUC Approvals
Submit approval of your research proposal from your institutional review board (IRB) and/or institutional animal care and use committee (IACUC) for secondary review by the IRB at the Uniformed Services University (USU). You cannot spend grant money until these forms have been submitted and approved and you have received a start letter. A checklist for required forms is available in the Forms section.
Step 3: Attend Post-Award Grant Management Workshop
Attendance at the Post-Award Grant Management Workshop is mandatory for all grantees. TSNRP will support the attendance of up to two researchers per award (e.g., principal investigator and project director).
Step 4: Receive Start Letter
When IRB requirements have been met, TSNRP will send you a start letter. When you receive your start letter, you may begin your research study.
Step 5: Submit Interim Progress Report
Submit an Interim Progress Report six months after your period of performance start date. TSNRP provides a template for this report. For more information, visit the Reporting section.
Step 6: Secure Prior Approval for Changes
You must receive prior approval from TSNRP for significant changes to your research study. Please review the Compliance section for specific changes that require prior approval.
Step 7: Submit Annual Progress Report
Submit an Annual Progress Report for your study each year on the anniversary date of your award as noted in your assistance agreement. TSNRP provides a template for this report. For more information, visit the Reporting section.
Step 8: Submit Annual IRB/IACUC Continuation
Submit approval of continuation for your research study from your IRB and/or IACUC each year. Keep your human subjects protection training up to date and submit a new certificate if training has expired.
Step 9: Complete Research
You must complete your research within the timeline established for your grant. If you need more time, you can apply for a no-cost extension.
Step 10: Determine Equipment Disposition
When your study is complete, you can dispose of the equipment purchased with award funds in several different ways. Work with your award institution and TSNRP grants manager to determine the most appropriate path for your award.
Step 11: Complete Financial Closeout
Complete and submit financial closeout forms to finalize the end of your award.
Step 12: Submit Final Report
Submit a Final Report at the end of your study, including a scientific discussion of your study and its findings. TSNRP provides a template and guidelines for this report.
Your Final Report will be publicly available. For more information, visit the Reporting section.
Step 13: Disseminate Research Findings
Disseminating the results of your research is crucial to advancing the field of military nursing research. Share your dissemination efforts with TSNRP! Email: tsnrp@usuhs.edu.
“The guidance, support, and funding provided by TSNRP, beginning with feedback on the letter of intent and continuing throughout the project, have been instrumental in my ability to approach bone health in our young soldiers from a perspective that is unique and relevant only in a military context. The administrative and clinical experts on the TSNRP team are committed to developing high-caliber nurse scientists and promoting high quality research within the military community.”