The document provides an update on recent activities of the Independent Science and Partnership Council (ISPC) of the CGIAR. It summarizes that the ISPC has welcomed new council members and a new executive director. It also notes that the ISPC hosted a science forum in April 2016 and is currently conducting an independent program review of CRP full proposals, with feedback to be provided in June. The update lists some areas of improvement seen across CRP proposals, such as stronger theories of change, more non-CGIAR partners, and better integration of gender issues. It outlines next steps in the review and funding process over the coming months.