Instructions for Merit Review at the Institutional Level

The purpose of the review is to assess scientific merit of a research proposal before proceeding with other levels of review. All research requiring the use of experimental animals must be reviewed for scientific merit, significance, and appropriate facilities. Proposals that are supported by institutional funds and/or commercial entities or have otherwise not undergone an extramural peer review will be reviewed by the Dean's Research Advisory Committee (DRAC). The DRAC recommendation as to scientific merit will be forwarded to the University Committee on Animal Resources (UCAR) and must be completed before UCAR will review the animal protocol.

Applicants must be full-time faculty with a primary appointment in the School of Medicine and Dentistry. Trainees may assist with the application materials but sign-off will ultimately be the responsibility of the faculty member seeking protocol approval.

The originality of the research objectives and the significance of the research are the two most important issues to be addressed. Details regarding the methods to be used and/or a comprehensive review of the background of the research are not necessary.

Proposals for which the scientific merit is approved: A copy of the DRAC approval is sent to the investigator and copied to UCAR who will then conduct their review as it applies to animal using the forms required for that purpose.

Proposals for which the scientific merit is not approved: DRAC may request additional information; there is the opportunity for revision and resubmission.

Application Form

Application for Merit Review of Sponsored Research

University affiliates should submit an electronic version of the form to:

The Office of the Senior Associate Dean for Basic Research, Paula Vertino, Ph.D.
c/o Jaycee_Turney@URMC.Rochester.Edu