NIH releases "Measuring and Rewarding Scientific Impact" RFI

What does scientific impact look like today?

NIH is seeking stakeholder input to define specific, measurable indicators and incentives that better reflect the collaborative, rigorous, and mission-driven nature of modern biomedical science.

Topics include rigor and reproducibility, data and software sharing, training and mentorship, collaboration, entrepreneurship and translation, foundational scientific exploration, and public impact—all areas where the CTSA consortium has deep expertise and a compelling track record.

NIH is particularly interested in comments that offer specific examples of measurable indicators, implementation approaches, potential benefits or unintended consequences, and considerations for feasibility across career stages, disciplines, and institution types.

Responses are due August 19, 2026 and must be submitted through the online comment portal.

Questions can be directed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

This is a meaningful opportunity to help shape how NIH recognizes and rewards the kind of rigorous, team-based translational science our consortium does every day.

For a full overview of the RFI and its context, read the recent NIH Extramural Nexus article, How Would You Measure and Reward Scientific Impact and Replicable Research Practices?