Narrative CVs
Transitioning from a traditional academic CV to a narrative CV can feel like a daunting task. The information and resources below will guide you through the process.
Tri-Agency CV Summer Workshop Series: The Inclusive Research Excellence and Impact Team is hosting a 3-part workshop series to support Western faculty in transitioning to the new narrative Tri-Agency CV (TCV). Each hands-on session will focus on one of the three TCV sections and include: 1) a brief overview of the purpose and instructions; 2) tips, examples, and templates; 3) one-on-one support and guidance from the IREI team; and 4) feedback from peers. Upon completion of the workshop series, participating faculty members may submit their draft TCV to the IREI team for comprehensive review and feedback. Sessions are scheduled from 10am-12pm on June 24, July 8, and July 22 (in-person only). Email questions to Kristen Reilly Firth (kreill2@uwo.ca). Registration is full. Please join the waitlist here. By signing up you will receive the workshop materials and resources by email.
What is a narrative CV?
The Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) defines narrative CV as “a structured description of a researcher’s contributions and achievements that reflect a broader range of skills and experiences beyond publications and funding record.”
The tri-agency CV (TCV) uses a narrative-style CV template aimed at capturing relevant information from applicants. It is composed of three sections:
- Personal statement;
- Most significant contributions and experiences; and
- Supervisory and mentorship activities
For more information, see the tri-agency CV frequently asked questions from CIHR and SSHRC.
Why do I need a narrative CV now?
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) and Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) announced that they will be transition from the Canadian Common CV to a new narrative-style CV for funding competitions, beginning in 2025.
“The new CV will prioritize written descriptions of an applicant’s research contributions, allowing users to highlight a wide range of research outputs and to describe their career trajectories in more detail. This format values societal research outcomes, such as influence on policy or mentorship, alongside more traditional research outputs like publications.”
How do I create a Tri-Agency narrative CV?
Western Research expects a final tri-agency CV template to be rolled out along with the Tri-Angecy Grants Management Solution (date TBD). In the meantime, you may refer to the existing template, instructions, and formatting guidelines for each agency (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC)
A few key highlights:
- Sections: Personal statement, Most significant contributions and experience, and Supervisory and mentorship activities.
- Page Limit: 5 pages (6 pages for CVs written in French)
- Formatting: 12 pt font, single line spacing, standard character spacing, PDF format etc. *formatting varies by agency
How will the TCV be evaluated?
Reviewers are asked to refer to the specific funding opportunity/program evaluation criteria in assessing the TCV. There are five categories of recommendations for reviewers: 1) Preparation, 2) Quality and impact, 3) Lived and living experience and non-linear career paths, 4) Limited opportunities for student and postdoctoral researcher training, and 5) Self-contained information. The guidelines for reviewing the TCV are available here.
What funding opportunities require the TCV?
Applicants must use the tri-agency CV if specified in the funding opportunity description. See the funding opportunity description for specific instructions for completing the tri-agency CV. (Updated June 12, 2025)
- CIHR Planning and Dissemination Grants
- CIHR Operating Grants
- CIHR Indigenous Centres for STBBI Research
- CIHR Team Grant - Pan-Canadian Network: Emerging LHS in Perinatal Mental Health
- SSHRC Impact Awards
- SSHRC Policy Innovation Partnership Grants
- Indigenous Science and the Impacts of Plastic Pollution
- Indigenous Capacity and Leadership Connection Grant
- NSERC Discovery Horizons (pilot)
- Destination Horizon Grants
- 2026 Canada Excellence Research Chairs Competition
*The new tri-agency CV will not be used for the Fall 2025 CIHR Project Grant competition (read more).
Resources
Crafting Your Story: The Art of the Narrative CV (webinar)
Source: Western University (January 2025)
Description: This webinar offers researchers practical tips and strategies on presenting their qualifications and achievements in a more comprehensive, narrative-driven way.
Link: Video Recording and Slides
Tri-agency CV (webinar)
Source: SSHRC (January 2025)
Description: This presentation was shared during a SSHRC-hosted webinar on the 2025 Impact Awards. The slides provide an overview of the new, narrative Tri-Agency CV including development, technical instructions, formatting and resources.
Link: Slides
Writing a Narrative CV
Source: University of Dundee
Description: This workbook guides you through reflective questions to help you craft a narrative CV.
Link: Writing a Narrative CV
Narrative CV: resources to help you write one
Source: University of Glasgow
Description: Self-directed modules providing advice, tips, and examples on what to include in a narrative format CV for early career researchers.
Link: Narrative CV: resources to help you write one
Narrative CVs: a Guide for Applicants
Source: University of Oxford
Description: Templates, advice, prompts and suggestions for how to write a narrative CV.
Link: Narrative CVs: a Guide for Applicants
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