2020 Virtual Grants Conference Survey - Virtual NSF Grants Conference Survey

NSF is proposing that our upcoming in-person Grants Conference move to a virtual format. We are proposing to hold the conference over eight days, with two to three sessions each day. To enhance the attendee experience, we would appreciate your taking a few minutes to answer the following questions. A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number; the number for this is 3145-0215.

Please review the draft schedule for a Virtual NSF Grants Conference.

1. If NSF moves forward with this proposed schedule, how likely are you to attend the Virtual NSF Grants Conference? *

Very likely

Somewhat likely

Not likely

2. Is there an alternative schedule format that you would prefer? *

Yes, the conference should be condensed so that multiple sessions take place over fewer than eight days

Yes, the conference should be expanded to take place over more than eight days

Yes, I would prefer an alternative schedule

Please explain

3. Which of the following topics would you most like to see covered? Please select all that apply. *

Introduction, NSF Overview and Funding Types: This session will cover NSF’s purpose, mandate, structure and budget highlights, as well as the various mechanisms NSF uses to fund proposals.

Proposal Preparation: Learn how to prepare a proposal and what constitutes a proposal of high quality.

Merit Review: Learn how the merit review system at NSF works, as well as types of reviews. Presenters will also cover the role of the NSF Program Officer, timing of proposal submissions, reviewer selection, release of reviewer comments and conflict of interest issues.

Award Management: This session will address post-award requirements and conditions and will outline the responsibility of those involved in the award process.

Proposal & Award Policy Update: This session will provide an update to NSF policies and procedures that affect proposal preparation, merit review and award management.

Office of International Science & Engineering: Presenters will discuss the role of the office in coordinating activities, as well as how to incorporate international components in NSF proposals.

Office of the Inspector General: Presenters will discuss the roles and responsibilities of the office. Issues arising from current audits and investigations will be covered.

4. Which of the following topics would you most like to see covered? Please select all that apply. [For a description of each of these sessions, click here] *

Financial Reviews, Site Visits and Audit Resolution

NSF Convergence Accelerator — A New Transition Model for Government

NSF IT Modernization / Research.gov

Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program

Financial Reporting and Award Cash Management Service (ACM$)

NSF Crosscutting Programs: CAREER

NSF Crosscutting Programs: REU, RUI and RET

Sexual Harassment Term and Condition for NSF Awards

Promoting and Protecting the U.S. Science and Engineering Enterprise

5. Please add any additional topics you would like to see covered.

6. Have you used Zoom webinar or Zoom meetings before? *

Yes

7. What is your comfort level using Zoom? *

Very comfortable

Somewhat comfortable

Not comfortable

The following questions are related to attending the NSF Grants Conference in person.