Evaluation of research proposals by peer review panels: broader panels for broader assessments?

Abstract Panel peer review is widely used to decide which research proposals receive funding. Through this exploratory observational study at two large biomedical and health funders in the Netherlands, we gain insight into how scientific quality societal relevance are discussed panel meetings. We explore, ten meetings of funding programmes, composition formal assessment criteria affect arguments used. observe that more than related expected impact. Also, diverse panels result a wider range arguments, largely for benefit discuss can contribute by creating shared conceptual framework better defines relevance. also further understanding role panels.