New Professional Research Grant Evaluation Criteria

This page contains information on how the New Professional Research Grant will be evaluated by the grants panel

Alignment with Sustainable Microbiology and AMI’s Goals (max 30 points)

  • Does the project clearly align with AMI’s strategic objectives and the principles of sustainable applied microbiology?
  • Does it demonstrate relevance to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs)?
  • Does it advance AMI’s mission to apply microbiology for societal or environmental benefit?

Strong Alignment – 30 pts
Moderate Alignment – 15 pts
Limited Alignment – 5 pts

Research Significance and Impact (max 30 points)

  • Does the project have clear potential to advance applied microbiology in ways that benefit society, health, industry, or the environment?
  • Are the anticipated outcomes meaningful and achievable?
  • Does the project contribute to AMI’s goal of translating microbiology into real-world solutions?

High Significance – 30 pts
Moderate Significance – 15 pts
Limited Significance – 5 pts

Methodology and Feasibility (max 20 points)

  • Are the methods, timeline, and approach clearly defined and realistic?
  • Is there evidence of innovation, appropriate resources, and/or collaboration?
  • Does the applicant demonstrate capacity to complete the project successfully within the proposed timeframe?

Robust Methodology – 20 pts
Adequate Methodology – 10 pts
Weak Methodology – 5 pts

Budget Justification and Appropriateness (max 15 points)

  • Is the budget realistic and well justified?
  • Are costs proportionate to the scope and aims of the project?
  • Are resources allocated appropriately and efficiently?

Well-Justified – 15 pts
Partially Justified – 10 pts
Poorly Justified – 5 pts

Diversity and Inclusion Statement (max 10 points)

  • Does the applicant demonstrate a clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in the design, participation, or impact of the project?
  • Does the proposal include actions that promote accessibility, mentorship, or engagement of underrepresented groups or regions?

Strong Commitment – 10 pts
Moderate Commitment – 5 pts
Limited Commitment – 0 pts

Scoring Guidelines

Total Possible Score: 100 Points

  • 80–100: Excellent — strongly meets all criteria. High priority for funding.
  • 60–79: Good — meets most criteria well. Consider for funding.
  • 40–59: Fair — meets some criteria but needs improvement. Lower priority.
  • Below 40: Poor — does not sufficiently meet criteria. Not recommended.