The decision-making process under coordinated programmes
The selection procedure for funding under the coordinated programmes is broken down into a draft phase and a proposal phase. For each phase, the selection is made based on a multi-stage process of review, evaluation and decision.
Those who have submitted a convincing draft proposal are invited to submit a proposal.
The process for the proposal essentially comprises the following phases:
Proposal submission
The details of proposal submission and the assignment of responsibilities at the Head Office differ according to the various programme types. For details, see the compact overview of the respective programmes under Funding at a glanc.
Review
Unlike the written review of individual proposals, proposals under coordinated programmes are reviewed orally by a panel. In addition to the selected reviewers, panel meetings are also attended by members of the review board responsible for the subject area in question and the relevant DFG decision-making body.
Comparative evaluation by the Senate or a scientific committee
Under certain programmes, the Senate or a subcommittee of the Senate deliberates on the proposal after the review and arrives at a preliminary decision.
Decision
Finally, the Joint Committee of the DFG or a Grants Committee appointed by the Joint Committee – made up of researchers as well as representatives of the federal states and the federal government – decides whether and to what extent a proposal is to receive funding.
Notification of the decision
Once the decision has been made, applicants receive written notification from the DFG Head Office. The letter of approval or rejection is also accompanied by notes from the review and from the committees’ deliberations.