NIH Biosketches

NIH requirements

The official NIH Common Forms biosketch is anticipated to become available for preparation and submission in November, 2025. A preview version is now available on SciENcv.

NIH Biosketch Guidelines

Biographical sketches (biosketches) are required for all key personnel (and mentors for training awards). This includes all PIs and Co-Investigators but, in some instances, may also include consultants, advisory board members, community members, and patients. 

*Please note that the NIH will be implementing its Common Form rules for biosketches in November (see NOT-OD-25-152) and will require all researchers to create them in SciENcv. Instructions and video are coming soon.

Currently, the required components for an NIH biosketch include name, eRA Commons user name (for all senior/key personnel), position title, education and training, and the following sections:

A. Personal Statement (citing up to four publications)

B. Positions, Scientific Appointments, and Honors (all items should be in reverse chronological order, beginning with most recent)

C. Contribution to Science (up to five) (citing up to four publications per contribution)

As of January 25, 2022, all senior key personnel must have an eRA Commons ID.

An entire NIH biosketch cannot be more than five pages, with no figures, graphics, or attached files. Biosketches for other agencies, such as PCORI, NSF and DOD, have different requirements. These forms often change with the funding cycle, so be sure to check the funding announcement for details.

Current Page Limit: 5 pages per biosketch.

Resources:

(The video below outlines upcoming biosketch changes that the NIH has not yet implemented.) GSU video on NIH Biosketch Writing Tips (2025)