Names are hard for computers, and ORCIDs enable computers to identify individual researchers for purposes of integrating technology systems. As a result, last year the NIH started to require ORCIDs for training and other research education grants due to its value in supporting the technology infrastructure needed to track long-term outcomes.
ORCIDs make it easier for you to curate and integrate your publications in a way computers understand. However, you do not have to use ORCID to create an NSF Biosketch under the new rules! ORCIDs are just a way to integrate across platforms. You can create a sciENcv Biosketch without using your ORCID. If you want to create an NSF Biosketch under the 2020 PAPPG process, see https://www.nsf.gov/bfa/ dias/policy/biosketch.jsp for a list of resources from the NSF.
If you have difficulty with SciENcv, try the NSF's forms to:
The Libraries now have a more extensive SciENcv walkthrough guide for Biosketches (and Current & Pending/ Other Support) documents, which goes beyond ORCiD integrations. Please visit our Biosketch Guide if you are looking for more detailed SciENcv information.
Help files on how to add your ORCID to eRA Commons are also available. ORCIDs must be in eRA Commons profiles of senior and key personnel on RPPRs and proposals starting May 25, 2025 (per NOT-OD-24-163).
There are many detailed help pages and videos on the ORCID/SciENcv integration process. Here are some of the best:
Looking for different approaches to walkthroughs? Here are some other institutions' approaches to walking you through ORCID, my NCBI, and SciENcv.