A biographical sketch (also referred to as biosketch) describes an individual's qualifications and experience for a specific role in a project. Both NIH and NSF require submission of a biosketch for each proposed senior/key personnel and other significant contributor on a grant application. SciENcv (Science Experts Network Curriculum Vitae) lets users easily create an online professional profile i.e., biosketches for NIH and NSF grant applications.
As of October 23, 2023, NSF grant applicants must use SciENcv to create NSF biosketches & for current and pending support documents.
NIH has been working with NSF and other federal agencies on developing Common Forms for the Biosketch and Current and Pending (Other) Support. The new NIH Common Forms are expected to be officially released in November 2025 (see link to NOT-OD-25-152 below) with full implementation in 2026 (maybe January). In the meantime, preview versions of the NIH Common Forms—including the Biographical Sketch, Current & Pending (Other) Support, and Biosketch Supplement—are available in SciENcv.
What You Need to Know About the Preview Forms:
Take this opportunity to explore the new format early—so you’re ready when the transition happens in 2026!
Getting started creating a Biosketch using SciENcv
Users can also access SciENcv by visiting the SciENcv website.
The last step is to download your PDF.
Here are some additional resources: