No, there are no field or country quotas. However, preference is given to proposals involving collaboration with historically underrepresented countries or regions. While applications to collaborate with scientists in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Hungary, and Poland are eligible for funding, priority consideration is given to proposals involving other locations. Examples of indirect charges are overhead, grant administration fees, and office space charges.
Applications undergo at least two outside peer reviews, a staff review, and a panel review.
Staff reviews determine the completeness of application materials and compliance with eligibility guidelines. The review panel ranks the applications and makes final funding recommendations. Since the number of applications received varies with each cycle, it is difficult to estimate what proportion of the applications will be successful, particularly in view of the significant restructuring of the program in early 2000. Applicants should not conduct visits or incur pre-award expenses prior to being notified of their awards and signing the necessary terms of agreement. Yes, as long as the awarded time period is spent conducting the activity outlined in your grant proposal.