VA Form 10-1313-6: Investigator’s Biographic Sketch Guide

VA Form 10-1313-6: Investigator’s Biographic Sketch Guide – VA researchers and clinicians applying for funding through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Research and Development (ORD) frequently encounter a set of standardized forms. One key document is VA Form 10-1313-6, part of the Investigator’s Biographic Sketch package.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to the form, its purpose, how to complete it, and its role in VA research grant applications. Whether you’re a principal investigator (PI), co-investigator, or preparing a submission for Biomedical Laboratory R&D (BLR&D), Clinical Science R&D (CSR&D), Health Services R&D (HSR&D), or Rehabilitation R&D (RR&D), understanding this form is essential.

What Is VA Form 10-1313-6?

VA Form 10-1313-6 is titled “Research and Development Program—Investigator’s Biographic Sketch.” It specifically serves as the bibliography or publications section for investigators.

It is typically paired with VA Form 10-1313-5 (the main biographical sketch covering education, positions, honors, etc.). Together, they are often referred to as VA Forms 10-1313-5/6. The form is limited to two pages per investigator and focuses exclusively on publications.

Purpose of the Investigator’s Biographic Sketch in VA Research

VA research funding is intramural and highly competitive. Applications require detailed documentation of an investigator’s qualifications and productivity. VA Form 10-1313-6 demonstrates scholarly output by listing relevant, peer-reviewed publications and accepted manuscripts.

Key guidelines:

  • List publications in chronological order.
  • Do not include abstracts.
  • Focus on the most relevant publications to the proposed research.
  • The combined 10-1313-5/6 package helps reviewers assess expertise, track record, and suitability for VA-funded projects supporting Veteran health.

This form is required for career development awards, merit review applications, letters of intent (LOIs), and other ORD submissions.

Who Needs to Submit VA Form 10-1313-6?

  • Principal Investigators (PIs) on VA research proposals.
  • Co-investigators, mentors, and key personnel with significant roles (typically ≥5% effort).
  • Applicants to VA career development programs (e.g., CDA).
  • Researchers at VA medical centers collaborating with academic affiliates.

Non-VA scientists may sometimes submit equivalent NIH biosketches, but VA-affiliated investigators must use the VA forms.

How to Complete VA Form 10-1313-6: Step-by-Step?

  1. Download the Fillable PDF — Obtain the latest version from the official VA forms page.
  2. Enter Your Name — Clearly at the top.
  3. List Publications:
    • Use standard citation format (e.g., author list, title, journal, year, volume, pages).
    • Chronological order (oldest to newest or vice versa—check specific RFA instructions).
    • Limit to two pages total.
    • Prioritize relevance to the VA research topic (e.g., Veteran-specific conditions, clinical outcomes).
  4. Avoid — Abstracts, non-peer-reviewed items, or excessive entries that exceed the page limit.
  5. Review and Sign (if required) — Ensure consistency with the companion Form 10-1313-5 and other support documents (e.g., Form 10-1313-7 or 10-1313-8).

Pro Tip: Keep your publication list updated regularly. Focus on high-impact, peer-reviewed work that aligns with VA priorities like precision medicine, mental health, rehabilitation, and chronic disease management for Veterans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Exceeding the two-page limit per investigator.
  • Including irrelevant or outdated publications.
  • Mixing formats or omitting key details (e.g., DOIs where available).
  • Failing to coordinate with the full application package, including current/pending support forms.
  • VA Form 10-1313-5 — Main biographical sketch (education, positions, honors).
  • VA Form 10-1313-7/8 — Research support (current and pending VA/non-VA funding).
  • VA Form 10-1313-13 — Letter of Intent Cover Page.

These forms work together in the VA 10-1313 package for comprehensive investigator documentation.

Why Accurate Completion Matters for VA Funding Success?

Strong biosketches and bibliographies signal productivity and relevance to VA’s mission of improving Veteran care. Reviewers evaluate alignment with VA priorities, publication quality, and the investigator’s ability to execute proposed studies.

For the latest guidance, visit the VA Office of Research and Development website here or contact your local VA Research Office / Associate Chief of Staff for Research and Development (ACOS/R&D).

Download and Resources

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult official VA instructions, your local research office, or the specific funding announcement for the most current requirements. Forms and policies can be updated.

Last updated for accuracy based on VA resources as of 2026.