Reviewer Responsibilities

What Is Expected of a PCORI Reviewer? 

All reviewers will:

• Understand and apply PCORI’s mission, and review criteria, which differ somewhat from those of other funding institutions.
• Review respective Reviewer Training Manual and attend Reviewer Training webinar/town hall. Seek help from PCORI if you have a question or concern.
• Identify conflicts of interest following PCORI guidelines.
• Read, review, and prepare a written critique for all assigned applications. Reviewers can expect to review approximately 4-6 applications per cycle.
• Represent the perspective of a broad or targeted group of scientists, patients, caregivers, or other stakeholders.
• Provide scores and written critiques electronically by the established Merit Review deadlines.
• Read additional application abstracts to prepare for an informed discussion during the in-person panel meeting. 
• Participate in a one- or two-day merit review panel meeting; in-person attendance is required for all reviewers. If specific circumstances, such as a disability, limit a reviewer’s ability to participate at the in-person meeting, PCORI will make needed accommodations.
• Provide feedback to PCORI in follow-up surveys and occasional focus groups.

How will I be compensated for serving as a PCORI Reviewer? 

All PCORI Reviewers for all PFAs will receive $100 for each application reviewed, as well as a $200 stipend for each day of the in-person meeting. All travel and lodging will be coordinated by PCORI for the in-person meeting. If meals and ground transportation are not provided, PCORI will provide reasonable reimbursement. 

Posted: March 1, 2016; Updated: February 11, 2019