---
kind: "section"
citation: "7 C.F.R. § 3415.15"
title: "7"
number: "3415.15"
heading: "Evaluation factors."
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/7/3415.15"
---

# §3415.15. Evaluation factors.


In carrying out its review under [§ 3415.14](/cfr/7/3415.14.md), the peer review group will take into account the following factors unless, pursuant to [§ 3415.5(a)](/cfr/7/3415.5.md?p=a), different evaluation criteria are specified in the annual program solicitation:

- (a) **Scientific merit of the proposal.**
  - (1) Conceptual adequacy of hypothesis;
  - (2) Clarity and delineation of objectives;
  - (3) Adequacy of the description of the undertaking and suitability and feasibility of methodology;
  - (4) Demonstration of feasibility through preliminary data;
  - (5) Probability of success of project;
  - (6) Novelty, uniqueness and originality; and
  - (7) **Appropriateness to regulation of biotechnology and risk assessment.**
- (b) **Qualifications of proposed project personnel and adequacy of facilities.**
  - (1) Training and demonstrated awareness of previous and alternative approaches to the problem identified in the proposal, and performance record and/or potential for future accomplishments;
  - (2) Time allocated for systematic attainment of objectives;
  - (3) Institutional experience and competence in subject area; and
  - (4) **Adequacy of available or obtainable support personnel, facilities, and instrumentation.**
- (c) **Relevance of project to solving biotechnology regulatory uncertainty for United States agriculture.**
  - (1) Scientific contribution of research in leading to important discoveries or significant breakthroughs in announced program areas; and
  - (2) **Relevance of the risk assessment research to agriculture and environmental regulations.**

## Notes

### Authority

Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301 and 7 U.S.C. 5921.

### Source

Source: 58 FR 65647, Dec. 15, 1993, unless otherwise noted.