NIH Biosketches with SciENcv and My Bibliography
NIH postpones implementation of new NIH Common Forms for Biosketches and Other Support
The NIH has delayed its planned implementation of the NIH Common Forms biosketch that had been due to come into effect for grants submitted after May 25, 2025.
Why was the transition postponed?
According to the NIH: "To further support a successful transition to the Common Forms, NIH is postponing the May 25, 2025 implementation for all applications and Research Performance Progress Reports (RPPRs). NIH will issue future Guide Notices outlining the new effective date and additional implementation details as they are finalized."
Has a new transition date been announced?
No new date has been announced at this point. We will update this guide when any new information is released.
What biosketch format should I use for my upcoming submission?
Applicants should continue to use the NIH-specific Biosketch and Other Support forms. The content of this guide reflects the process for completing the NIH-specific biosketch.
Is there any information available about what the Common Form process will look like when it comes out?
Information is still limited, but NIH has identified two key requirements:
- You will be required to use the SciENcv research profile system to produce the digitally certified biosketch PDFs. Applicants can use SciENcv to complete the current biosketch (but are not required to do so). This guide's Using SciENcv and My Bibliography offers a step-by-step process for using SciENcv.
- All senior/key personnel listed on applications must have an ORCID, a free, unique, persistent identifier (PID) for individuals to use as they engage in research, scholarship, and innovation activities. The ORCID must be linked to your eRA Commons profile and will be included in the biosketch's Persistent Identifier section. HSL's ORCID guide provides additional information about setting up your account.
I have some additional questions about NIH biosketches.
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Overview
Biosketches are a key component of most major grant proposal packages, highlighting the skills and experiences of the principal investigator (PI), key personnel, and core project team members. Similar to a curriculum vitae, biosketches are used by grant proposal reviewers to assess whether the staff has demonstrated the ability to successfully complete the project they are proposing.
Biosketches must conform to specific formats, both in terms of content and required ordering, with requirements varying by funding agency and project type.
To help with the process, researchers can use a pair of tools—SciENcv and My Bibliography—to assist with developing and automatically formatting biosketches according to agency requirements and connect to publication histories.
This Research Guide is divided into two main sections:
NIH Biosketch Requirements: The NIH introduced a new biosketch template in 2022 for both fellowship and non-fellowship applicants. This section covers the requirements for each section and key takeaways on formatting and content.
Using SciENcv and My Bibliography: With some initial setup, these tools can save you time and effort when creating your biosketch by automatically adding and correctly formatting your information and verbiage. This section covers the setup process for both SciENcv and My Bibliography, linking to eRA Commons, connecting your link to published works, and exporting your completed biosketch.