Research and Development

In accordance with the provisions of Title 38 U.S.C. 7303, this part sets forth the mechanism for VA medical facilities to submit applications for VA employees to conduct research for the purpose of improving Veterans’ health and well-being. Investigator-initiated research proposals is the foundation to achieving the Office of Research and Development (ORD) mission to discover knowledge, develop VA researchers and health care leaders, and create innovations that advance health care for our Veterans.

The Principal Investigator (PI) and any Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) must have employment status of at least 25 hours per week (5/8ths) and activities that demonstrate a primary professional commitment to VA, including research, patient care, teaching, committee work, etc.. The eligibility of each prospective PI (and Co-PI) must be established prior to the funding of a research proposal.

Applications submitted in response to a VA-ORD NOFO will be reviewed through a two-tier system.

The first level of review will be performed by a Scientific Review Group (SRG) composed of scientists who have expertise in relevant scientific disciplines and current research areas. The purpose of the SRG is to evaluate the scientific and technical merit of applications. The SRG does not make funding decisions.

The second level of review will be performed by VA-ORD, based not only on considerations of scientific merit (as judged by the SRGs), but also on the relevance of the proposed study to the mission, programs, and priorities of VA-ORD and the awarding Service. Final funding decisions are made at the discretion, and approval, of the awarding Service Director.

VA-ORD uses a Just-in-Time process to ensure all VA regulations and policies are met prior to making a final award.