On September 20, 2024, APA Services filed a comment (PDF, 99KB)opens in new window in response to a National Science Board-U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Commission on Merit Review request for information regarding public perceptions and experiences with the NSF merit review process, criteria, and policies. The comment emphasized the importance of considering the perspective of psychological science when reviewing these criteria and policies.
APA Services shared the importance of psychology as a “hub science,” bringing together multidisciplinary proposals for consideration and why these proposals should be favorably considered. Funding for psychological research from the NSF has long contributed to psychology’s ability to benefit society and contribute to specific, desired societal outcomes. The comment highlighted that any changes to the current merit review system should consider these invaluable contributions.
The association also acknowledged the current NSF merit review system’s tradition of identifying research that enhances the knowledge base of a broad range of scientific fields and encourages interdisciplinary exploration. The comment stressed the importance that any changes to the criteria, policies, or processes for review and award must first retain the current focus on advancing science and innovation.
Finally, the association shared its commitment to ensuring that all researchers have an equal opportunity for NSF funding and recognizes that the advancement of science and research depends on the inclusion of a diverse representation of researchers in the merit review process. The comment recognized that there are disparities in rates of funding for minority researchers and suggested that prior to and during the merit review process, APA Services supports building relationships between program officers and grant applicants, increasing outreach to potential NSF grantees from underrepresented groups, and cultural awareness training for program officers and review panelists.
We hope these recommendations to the NSF will be strongly considered when making changes to the current merit review system and the future policies will result in increased funding for psychological science and the scientists seeking to further understand the world through the use of psychology.
For more information, contact Corbin Evans.