I am a recently hired researcher, and have been inundated with all kinds of paper. What is the single most important document I can read to understand RPES and its importance to me as a scientist?
Without question, the single most important document is Manual 431.3-ARS. Part I explains how to prepare a case writeup–this tells you what ARS considers important, and what panels look for. Part II provides RPES evaluation material–the actual criteria against which you will be judged when a panel reviews your case.