Regardless of the specific method used during the contract term, the vendor will be required to provide consistent, high-quality services through processes that are generally recognized by the scientific community to be credible, objective, and comprehensive. The vendor will: a. Receive confidential applications and screen for compliance with established criteria set forth in the RFA and other application requirements and standards, including, but not limited to, requirements for human subject’s research, vertebrate animal research, human stem cell research, and/or use of recombinant DNA. A simple checklist or spreadsheet can be created by the vendor and used to document compliance with various criteria required by the RFA’s application instructions (to be established in discussion with the NYSDOH). b. Recruit highly qualified individuals to serve on merit peer review panels and identify and manage any conflicts of interest among them. Peer reviewers will be from outside New York State and will have appropriate experience and expertise for the types of applications that are anticipated. c. Coordinate, manage and provide support for independent scientific and technical merit peer review of applications for research and education funding. d. Design and implement procedures that establish a systematic process of reviewing applications based on scientific merit and to ensure compliance with DOH terms and conditions. e. Provide thorough written reports and summaries of each application received. f. Provide administrative support services such as meeting management, travel coordination and reimbursement of peer reviewers.
