The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) seeks subject matter experts to serve as peer reviewers. As a reviewer, you will objectively evaluate grant applications against the evaluation criteria in its competitive grant programs’ Requests for Applications (RFA’s). Apply to be an AMS grant reviewer.
What Is the Review Process?
AMS conducts peer review panels made up of three reviewers, with one serving as Panel Chair. Reviewers evaluate assigned applications individually using instructions prepared by AMS. After completing individual evaluations, reviewers participate in panel discussions to reach a consensus score recommendation that AMS will consider for project selection for administrative review. Reviews focus on the strengths and weaknesses of each proposal in alignment with the program’s goals and criteria.
What Will Be My Role as a Reviewer or Panel Chair?
As an individual reviewer, you will independently review and score assigned applications, provide clear, constructive, and objective comments, actively participate during consensus discussions, and meet deadlines established by AMS and the Panel Chair. As a Panel Chair, in addition to serving as an individual reviewer, you will coordinate and lead the discussion of applications and recommendations through the peer review system.
What Is the Time Commitment?
Reviewers should expect to commit approximately six weeks to complete the reviews. The workload will not require a full-time commitment. However, reviewers should generally be ready to commit 7-10 hours per week for the review period. Upon successful completion of the reviews and AMS acceptance of panel summary reports, non-federal reviewers will receive an honorarium of $200 per application reviewed, and Panel Chairs will receive an additional bonus for serving in that role.
How Are Reviewers Selected?
Applying to be a reviewer does not guarantee your selection. Reviewers are selected based on their subject matter expertise, experience, number of grant applications received, and corresponding fit with the applications. Reviewers may include employees at the Federal government, public and private sector, state universities and colleges, including the land grant institutions, state departments of agriculture, retirees, and other appropriate employer types as determined by AMS.
Is Training Required?
Yes. All selected reviewers will be required to participate in a virtual training session prior to reviewing the applications. Panel Chairs will receive additional training tailored to their responsibilities.
Is There Anything Else I Need to Know?
No travel is required. All reviews are conducted virtually and communications will occur via phone and email.