Overview
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Reviewer in Training (RiT) Program provides Early Career Researchers (ECRs) with hands‑on experience in CIHR’s Project Grant peer‑review process. Participants learn directly from experienced reviewers, gain insight into high‑quality peer review, and strengthen their ability to prepare competitive grant applications.
The Spring 2026 RiT application period is open until February 4, 2026.
About the Program
The RiT Program runs during both the Spring and Fall Project Grant competitions. Participants may apply to one of two roles:
Apply as a Mentee
A guided learning experience for ECRs who want structured exposure to CIHR peer review. To learn more, refer to the RiT Program webpage.
- Paired with an experienced Mentor
- Prepare practice reviews for up to three applications
- Attend the full peer review meeting
- Present one practice review
- Participate in committee discussions (excluding scoring and budget)
- Access all committee applications for learning purposes
Apply as an ECR Reviewer
A role for ECRs who already hold a federally funded (or equivalent) peer‑reviewed grant as Principal Investigator.
- Review up to five assigned applications
- Attend the full peer review meeting
- Present assigned applications later in the meeting
- Participate fully in scoring and budget discussions
Important Dates
| Dates | Events |
|---|---|
| February 4, 2026 | Application deadline to the Spring 2026 RiT Program |
| March 4, 2026 | Application deadline for the Spring 2026 Project Grant Competition |
| March 18, 2026 | Results deadline for the Spring 2026 RiT Program |
| May 12 – June 11, 2026 | Project Grant committee meetings (individual committee meeting dates to be confirmed with each participant, typically held between 10am-5pm). |
How to Apply
Applications are submitted directly through CIHR’s website. Learn more about this opportunity, the program structure and the eligibility requirements: