Limited Submissions

 

Apply to Limited Submissions on InfoReady Review 

Overview

Limited submission opportunities specifically limit the number of applications or nominations the University may apply for or submit to. In these situations, Pitt is responsible for overseeing internal competitions to select the candidates and applications that best meet the requirements of the sponsor and have the best chance to be selected or funded. Please see the outline of our process below.

Pre-Application Process

All applications for limited submission opportunities, including grants, awards, and programs, must be approved by the University of Pittsburgh Research Development team. This is to ensure the University adheres to the requirements of the sponsor agencies and to prevent multiple applications from being submitted and possibly disqualified. 

Announcement of Funding

Select limited submission opportunities are posted on the University’s InfoReady site and distributed via the Weekly Funding newsletters. If an investigator finds an opportunity that is a Limited Submission but it is not listed on InfoReady, they are advised to contact the Research Development team who will coordinate the application process.  

Committee Reviews Pre-Application Materials

When the number of internal applicants for a limited submission opportunity exceeds the number of submissions allowed, ad-hoc committees are created to review and assess the applicants. These committees are comprised of Pitt faculty who either have specific expertise related to the goal of the funding opportunity or who have been recipients or awardees of the opportunity. These committees use a designated rubric to score the candidates on their A, B, C, D, and E, which are then tabulated, statistically assessed, and reviewed.

Selected Candidate(s) Begin Submission process

Once a candidate has been identified, they are connected with the appropriate groups on campus who will support them in developing their submission.   

For additional details on the limited-submission process, please view our FAQs or contact the Research Development team at researchdev@pitt.edu.  

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I submit an application for a limited submission? 

Applications can be submitted via Pitt’s InfoReady site (accessed either through MyPitt or directly). 

What if the InfoReady site doesn't list an opportunity that I am interested in?

The RD Team curates many high-interest limited submissions opportunities on InfoReady. Should a specific program not be listed, you may either submit the information on “Apply to a Competition not Listed in InfoReady”, or you may contact the Research Development team for assistance.

What materials do I have to submit for an internal pre-application?

The pre-proposal materials are similar, though less lengthy, than what is required to apply to the funding agency. Typical pre-proposal materials include a brief narrative of a research proposal, an abbreviated CV or biosketch, and possible letters of support from Department Chairs or Deans. Applicants are encouraged to review each opportunity for specific requirements.  

Who reviews internal pre-applications?

All pre-proposal application materials are reviewed by peer-faculty from Pitt with expertise in the fields related to the funding opportunity. Extreme care is taken to ensure a fair and equal review process for candidates.  

What criteria determine the application(s) selected to move forward?

Applicants are reviewed against a five-point rubric specific for the opportunity they applied for. Scores from the review process are then discussed among all the reviewers, who consider the applicants against the requirements and expectations of the funding agency.  

I was selected as the institutional nominee. What actions do I take now?

Congratulations! All institutional nominees are notified of their award by the Research Development team. The notification includes instructions specific to what should be done to ensure a timely submission to the sponsor agency.  

I was selected as the institutional nominee, but can no longer pursue the program. Who should I contact?  

Please contact our team as soon as possible regarding any changes in your ability to apply. 

I was not selected as the nominee to move forward with a limited submission program. May I apply in the future? 

Absolutely. The Research Development team provides all applicants with feedback from the review committee to help them prepare their materials for future applications. The team is also available to help identify alternative funding opportunities for all applicants. 

I missed the internal deadline for a limited submission competition. May I submit late or request an extension?

This is handled on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the Research Development team for assistance.  

Who do I contact if I am having technical difficulties with InfoReady Review?

Please contact the Research Development team for assistance.