Suffolk Reporter

The Office for Research and Innovation (OR&I) at Stony Brook University recently acknowledged the contributions of faculty members who have participated in peer reviewing seed grant programs and limited competitions. This effort is part of OR&I's mission to grow research at the university, a strategic goal.

Kevin Gardner, Vice President for Research and Innovation, emphasized the importance of service as one of the primary roles of faculty members alongside scholarship and teaching. He stated, "We advance our science by having peer reviews," highlighting that faculty expertise is crucial in making informed decisions about research investments.

Gardner also outlined two significant ways OR&I contributes to science at Stony Brook: mentoring through critical reviews and ensuring wise investment of funds. He expressed appreciation for the reviewers' work, saying it helps improve ideas and maximize financial resources.

Interim President Richard McCormick praised the honored reviewers, acknowledging their role in identifying opportunities for future scientific discoveries. He reaffirmed his commitment to doubling research expenditures by 2030, a goal set by former president Maurie McInnis.

Stella Tsirka, SUNY distinguished professor in the Department of Pharmacological Sciences, shared her motivation for participating as a reviewer. She said it allows her to connect with other faculty members and foster collaborations.

Nina Maung, senior associate vice president for research, highlighted an impressive return on investment (ROI) from the Seed Grant Program. She noted that Stony Brook has achieved a 9:1 ROI ratio from these grants. Maung added that this program has increased collaboration across departments and led to more substantial proposals submitted to external sponsors.

Alfredo Fontanini, professor and chair of the Department of Neurobiology and Behavior at Stony Brook, underscored the significance of early-stage idea support provided by these mechanisms. As a reviewer himself, he praised the rigorous process established by OR&I's Office of Proposal Development (OPD).

For those interested in becoming faculty reviewers for future programs or internal competitions at Stony Brook University, information can be found on OR&I's Call for Reviewers page.