Many multi-investigator and/or multidisciplinary proposals have requirements that are substantially different from individual research proposals. For example, NIH program projects generally require Administrative Cores. The Office of Proposal Development (OPD) has extensive experience with a variety of funding mechanisms (multi-investigator program projects, center grants, construction/infrastructure, etc.). We can provide advice, outlines, and writing assistance to help you develop these required sections of the proposal into effective elements of your grant application.
Additionally, many funding agencies require formal evaluations of funded projects. These evaluations affect proposal budgets, and they require careful explanation that takes into consideration benchmarks, outcomes, and the ways in which you will adjust your program based on data gathered. We can help you develop measurable aims or goals that allow for meaningful evaluations, thereby demonstrating your program’s success to both you and your funding agency.
Evaluation
Some funding opportunities require plans for evaluation of the proposed project. Based on the requirements of the proposal, these evaluations can be conducted internally or by an external evaluator. As you plan the evaluation of your proposed program, please remember to contact the evaluation resource well in advance of your deadline, and to build the cost of these services into your project budget.
The Office of Institutional Research and Evaluation is a university resource that can assist faculty in the development of an appropriate evaluation plan based on the goals of the project and the requirements of the funding agency. The Office of Institutional Research and Evaluation facilitates student outcomes assessment projects, major survey research projects, and program evaluations. Members of the staff provide consultation on research design, survey construction, outcomes assessment, and evaluation. The Office of Institutional Research and Evaluation website has links to Fast Facts and the Tufts University Fact Book, both excellent resources for institutional data.
The Office of Proposal Development has worked with a number of external evaluators who can help to refine the evaluation plan, develop surveys and other assessment tools, and work with the Principal Investigator to conduct the evaluation. Please contact the OPD for suggestions of external evaluation services we have found useful.
If you would like to request assistance in crafting effective Special sections or Evaluation sections, please contact the Office of Proposal Development as soon as possible in advance of your application deadline. Assistance is available as resources permit.