So, I’m revising and resubmitting my F31 application, since the reviewers thought I needed a co-sponsor.1
Of course, in the meantime, the NIH went and changed the application forms. Things like going from “list your experiences in chronological order” to “list your experiences in reverse chronological order”2. Apparently this somehow prevents improper foreign influences. I’m not making this up.
In conclusion, arrrrggggh.
1
I think they picked up on the fact that my advisor is very hands-off and doesn’t give me much mentoring. They really liked my research plan though. Annoyingly, I’ve needed to wait 8 months to re-apply.
2
Example is from https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-21-073.html