The objective of peer review is to evaluate and rate the scientific and technical merit of research or research training grant applications.
Peer review of applications submitted to the NIH involves:
- Scientific Review Groups, managed by scientific review administrators at components of the NIH
- The Center for Scientific Review (CSR) manages Scientific Review Groups that evaluate most unsolicited applications.
- The NICHD Division of Scientific Review manages Institutional Scientific Review Groups that evaluate applications submitted in response to special solicitations, such as RFAs, and for unique programs, including career development.
- Federal advisory committees—The National Advisory Child Health and Human Development (NACHHD) Council, which is composed of scientists from the extramural research community and public representatives, provides the legally-mandated second level of review.
NICHD-specific information 
