MERIC

Grant Proposal Evaluation Criteria

MERIC

Criteria used by the MERIC Small Grants Committee to evaluate proposals are listed below. Note that not all projects need address every area listed.

1. Background/rationale:

  • Is the problem statement clear and well defined?
  • Does the literature review clearly identify what is known about the problem or the proposed innovation and identify gaps?
  • Is there a conceptual framework or theoretical perspective identified to support the work?

2. Project aims:

  • Are the project aims clearly stated, feasible, and appropriately focused and narrow?
  • Is the project timely and does it address a gap in the literature/field?

3. Methodology:

  • Are the methods clear (study design, participants, setting for the research/innovation)?
  • Do the methods align with project aims?
  • Does the project use ScholarRx/USMLE-Rx components?
  • Are interventions/innovations clearly described (e.g., faculty development, etc).
  • Is the planned analysis/evaluation appropriate for the project aims?
  • Are the types of instruments or techniques planned for measurement detailed, with rationale for selection?

4. Anticipated outcomes/impact:

  • Is this work likely to advance our knowledge or practice in medical education and/or open additional areas for further exploration?
  • Are potential outcomes discussed and are they reasonable?
  • Is there a clear plan for dissemination, including through conferences or publications?

5. Timeline:

  • Is the timeline for completion feasible and likely to succeed?

6. Budget:

  • Are the budget itemizations reasonable and appropriate?
  • Are monies dedicated to approved costs? (see FAQs)

7. References:

  • Are the references appropriate and well-curated?

8. Personnel:

  • Does the study engage trainees as co-investigators?
  • Has the project engaged personnel with the appropriate expertise to make successful completion of the project in the specified timeline likely?

9. Human Subjects:

  • Educational research projects involving human subjects require IRB approval. It is not necessary to obtain approval prior to submitting a proposal, but documentation indicating approval or exemption will be required before receiving funding.