FR 2025-03541

The document titled "Center for Scientific Review: Notice of Closed Meeting," published in the Federal Register, details two upcoming meetings organized by the National Institutes of Health's Center for Scientific Review. These meetings, scheduled for early April 2025, are intended to review grant applications and will be conducted virtually. Notably, these sessions are closed to the public to ensure the confidentiality of sensitive information, such as trade secrets or personal data associated with the grant applications.

General Summary

The document announces two separate meetings:

1. Cellular Signaling and Regulatory Systems Study Section: This meeting will occur on April 7-8, 2025, between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. It involves the evaluation of grant applications related to cell biology.

2. Biobehavioral Medicine and Health Outcomes Study Section: Scheduled for April 9-11, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m, this meeting focuses on reviewing grants concerning biobehavioral medicine.

Both meetings will take place virtually with contact information provided for the respective Scientific Review Officers involved.

Significant Issues and Concerns

The document refers to sections 552b(c)(4) and 552b(c)(6) of Title 5 U.S.C. as legal justifications for closing the meetings, citing the protection of confidential information. However, it lacks a detailed explanation of these provisions, which may lead to public confusion.

Additionally, the document lists personal contact details for the Scientific Review Officers. While this may be intended to facilitate communication, it raises privacy concerns if their consent to share this information was not obtained.

Another point of concern is the absence of specific criteria for grant evaluation, which might be viewed as a lack of transparency in how these decisions are made. Furthermore, the mention of various Federal Domestic Assistance Program Numbers without context may confuse readers unfamiliar with these programs.

Public Impact

By closing the meetings to the public, the document prioritizes safeguarding sensitive information, which is critical for maintaining the integrity of the grant review process. However, this may lead to a perception of secrecy and reduce public trust if not properly understood.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For researchers and institutions applying for grants, understanding the review process is crucial. While the confidentiality of proprietary information is beneficial, it is important for applicants to have clarity on evaluation criteria and processes. The document's lack of transparency in these areas could negatively impact their confidence in the fairness of the review.

Conversely, by protecting sensitive information, the document can positively impact applicants by preventing the unauthorized dissemination of their intellectual property or personal details, thereby enhancing the security of their applications.

Overall, the notice highlights the balance between maintaining confidentiality and transparency—key aspects that are vital for an effective and trusted grant review process.