In their evaluation, the Committee will consider the following criteria:

Criterion 1: Evaluation of the Applicant

• Potential for a career in HIV-related research
• Academic record (presentations, publications, etc)
• Prior research experience and/or publications

Criterion 2: Evaluation of the Mentor and Mentoring Support

• Letter of support from mentor which includes: mentor's track record of productivity, funding, and success with prior trainees; detailed description of the mentoring plan, including available resources allocated to the proposed research project, provision of protected time, and available laboratory facilities.
• The mentor is an independent investigator.
• The mentor has the experience to direct the proposed research training, as
  evidenced by the letter of support.
• The mentoring plan is sufficient to facilitate the applicant’s progress towards his/her
  research career goals.
• Letter of support from the department chair or division chief documents the
  institution is willing and has the ability to commit the resources necessary for the
  applicant to complete the proposed research, including sufficient protected time.

Criterion 3: Evaluation of the Proposal

• Innovation and Significance: The research proposal is new and original and addresses an important question/issue related to HIV. The proposed study will have an effect on concepts, methods, and/or technologies related to HIV research.
• Approach: The conceptual framework, design, methods, and analyses are adequately developed, well-integrated, well-reasoned, feasible (as determined by preliminary data or the expertise available), and appropriate to the aims of the project. The applicant acknowledges potential problem areas and considers alternative tactics.
• Feasibility: The project, as described in the submitted proposal and budget, can be accomplished within the timeframe of the award.