http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-14-074.html

NIH and AHRQ have announced a policy change that affects the number of times a proposal may be resubmitted.

The previous policy, implemented in 2008 as part of the Enhancing Peer Review Initiative, limited researchers to one application (the A0 version) and one resubmission application (the A1 version) for a given research project.  After an unsuccessful A1 resubmission application, NIH required subsequent proposals to "demonstrate substantial changes in scientific direction compared to previously reviewed submissions;" i.e. not be resubmissions of previous applications.

The new policy, effective immediately, removes the restriction of proposals submitted after an unsuccessful A1 resubmission application.  Researchers may follow an unsuccessful A1 with additional applications on the same research project.  These post-A1 submissions will be classified as "New" proposals, and have an A0 designation. 

NIH will not assess the similarity of the science in the new (A0) application to any previously reviewed submission when accepting an application for review. Although a new (A0) application does not allow an introduction or responses to the previous reviews, NIH encourages applicants to refine and strengthen all application submissions.

Please consult with your PDS/RA on the mechanics of application requirements on any NIH proposal.

In addition, there will be a meeting on May 6, 2014 at 3 p.m. in the Center for Manufacturing Excellence Boardroom, where Vice Chancellor Clark will answer researchers’ questions regarding this policy change (or any questions related to NIH). Those planning to attend this meeting are encouraged (but not required) to sign-up at http://www.research.olemiss.edu/upcoming-presentations.