Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for a limited submission opportunity?

Navigate to the limited submission listing on InfoReady, select the “Apply for Internal Consideration” box at the bottom of the page, fill out the application, and submit all required documentation. Applications received without all the required documentation will be rejected.

What documentation is required to apply for a limited submission opportunity?

When completing an online application through InfoReady, you will be asked to upload documents listed in the “How to Apply” section of the limited submission opportunity. Requirements vary based on the type of limited submission or sponsoring agency, but typically include a version of your research narrative and a brief, five-page biosketch or CV.

I am interested in applying for a limited submission opportunity not listed on InfoReady. What should I do?

Contact Pitt Research Development at researchdev@pitt.edu or complete the form "Apply for an opportunity not listed on InfoReady.” If the deadline of the opportunity is less than four weeks away, the decision about whether to create a competition or select an institutional applicant or nominee will be made on a case-by-case basis.

I missed the internal deadline to apply for a limited submission. Can I submit my materials late or request an extension?

All applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM on the day of the internal deadline. No extensions or late submissions will be permitted.

What happens if an internal deadline for a limited submission has passed, and no one has applied?

The limited submission will be kept open until the sponsor deadline on a first-come, first-served basis. Please contact researchdev@pitt.edu if interested in applying.

Who reviews the limited submission applications and how long does it take?

Peer reviewers are selected by the Office of the Senior Vice Chancellor for Research specific to the focus of the sponsoring agency. The review process lasts approximately two to three weeks.

What criteria are used to determine who is selected?

Limited submission proposals are reviewed using a five-point rubric to assess the alignment of the pre-application with the intent of the funding opportunity. Pitt Research Development uses a standard rubric for most competitions that evaluates: (1) the alignment with the mission of the solicitation; (2) the approach and design; (3) significance of the project and potential impact; (4) how well the pre-application describes the intended project; and (5) if the PI has the appropriate training and experience. The rubric is subject to change depending on the review criteria of the sponsor agency. Reviewers are asked to also provide qualitative feedback on the applications. All review information is shared with the applicant.

What happens if I am selected as the institutional nominee?

All institutional nominees are notified via an email from InfoReady and should consult with their departmental grants administrator to determine appropriate next steps for submission.

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

Please contact researchdev@pitt.edu as soon as possible.

I am having technical difficulties submitting my documentation through InfoReady. Who should I contact?

Send an email to researchdev@pitt.edu to request assistance.

What do I do if I’m not sure if an opportunity is a Limited Submission?

Please contact researchdev@pitt.edu as soon as possible with the opportunity details.  

What happens if I submit directly to a sponsor without going through the internal process? 

Submitting to a limited submission without institutional approval may result in the applicant or Pitt being disqualified for that cycle. If you think you have done so by mistake, please reach out to researchdev@pitt.edu as soon as possible.

Can I sign up to receive notifications about limited submission opportunities?

Yes, you can sign up for the weekly funding newsletters which list active limited submission opportunities. The full list of open competitions can be found on the limited submission website