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  5. Overview of Internet Assisted Review (IAR)

Overview of Internet Assisted Review (IAR)

What is the purpose?  

The Internet Assisted Review (IAR) module is a system to expedite the scientific review of grant applications. It provides a standard process for reviewers to submit critiques, preliminary scores and final scores and to view grant applications and related meeting materials via the eRA Commons. The IAR module is used during the pre-award phase of the grant application process. IAR allows one-click email capability between the scientific review officer and reviewer.

NOTE: You must be logged into IAR via eRA Commons with the appropriate role(s) to complete the activities described here. 

Main Screenshots

To access IAR, log into eRA Commons and click the Internet Assisted Review button on the landing page:

The IAR button on the eRA Commons landing page.

Figure 1: The IAR button on the eRA Commons landing page.

You can also navigate to IAR by clicking on the apps icon in the upper left corner of the screen and selecting Internet Assisted Review.

The IAR link from the apps icon drop-down menu.

Figure 2:  Accessing IAR from the apps icon.

IAR navigation button from eRA Commons landing page

Figure 3: Navigation from eRA Commons landing page for users with the IAR role.

IAR List of My Assigned Applications screen

Figure 4: List of Applications screen in the IAR module. 

What are the features?

IAR allows reviewers to:

  • View grant applications in a secure environment
  • Identify conflicts with any applications
  • Download meeting materials
  • Submit information to the Secure Payee Reimbursement System (SPRS) to receive honoraria for the review service
  • Submit critiques and preliminary scores for their assigned applications
  • Read other reviewer's critiques on the same applications (if not in conflict)
  • Submit updated critiques or critiques for unassigned applications at the scientific review officer's discretion
  • Provide final scores

What are the benefits?

The benefits include:

  • Provides a standardized process for reviewers to submit critiques and scores and view grant applications and related meeting materials in a secure setting
  • Allows critiques and scores to be submitted in advance of the scheduled meeting, allowing for more informed discussions at the review meeting
  • Supports alternative formats such as virtual meetings that allow for a secure, online review of applications

Additional Resources