FAQs: Building Sustainable Software Tools for Open Science (R03: RFA-OD-24-010) and NIH Research Software Engineer (RSE) Award (R50: RFA-OD-24-011)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: Building Sustainable Software Tools for Open Science (R03: RFA-OD-24-010) and NIH Research Software Engineer (RSE) Award (R50: RFA-OD-24-011)

Is my proposed research area/project aligned with the priorities of this funding opportunity?
Applicants should refer to the participating Institutes/Centers (ICs) listed on each Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to ensure alignment of proposed project to IC mission priorities. It is strongly recommended that applicants contact the participating IC’s point of contact listed in the funding opportunity for guidance on addressing alignment/fit of the research project.
Are there any specific review criteria?
Yes, these have specific review criteria noted in Section V of the NOFO, within sections labeled, “Specific to this NOFO.”
Will these awards change the ESI/NI status of the principal Investigator?
No, an investigator will retain their ESI/NI status even if they receive one of these awards. See List of Smaller Grants & Awards that Maintain ESI Status for more details.
What is the minimum education background for RSE applicants?
There is no minimum education background for applicants as long as they meet the eligibility criteria described in Section III of the R50 NOFO.
What are the requirements for the Other Significant Contributor?
The Other Significant Contributor must have at least one NIH funded award and must be invested in the RSE and their research project. Please refer to the specifics in the Additional NIH-project PI (“Other Significant Contributor”) Requirements under Section III.1 of the R50 NOFO.
Does the "Other Significant Contributor" have to be from the same institution as the RSE?
No, the other significant contributor does not necessarily have to be from the same institution as the RSE.
What should I include in my letter of Intent (LOI)?
Guidance for what to include in LOI is in Section IV of the Notice of Funding Opportunity. Applicants are also encouraged to include name(s) of NIH staff/program officers with whom they have discussed their proposal.