Purpose
To support diverse postdocs to develop their independent research skills through a two-phase program: an initial mentored research experience followed by a period of independent research.

Program Announcement
NINDS K22 - No Independent Clinical Trials - PAR-18-469

Program Announcement
NINDS K22 - Clinical Trial Required - PAR-18-468

Due Dates for New Applications
February 12,  June 12,  October 12

Due Dates for Resubmission Applications
March 12, July 12, November 12

PD/PI Eligibility
U.S. citizens or permanent residents; research doctorate holders; members of underrepresented groups

Institution Eligibility
U.S. domestic institutions

Additional Information

This opportunity provides individuals from diverse backgrounds with strong training in neuroscience with the resources and tools that will help facilitate a transition to a stable and productive independent research position. Individuals from diverse backgrounds underrepresented in neuroscience research are eligible for support under this award if they have doctoral research degrees (Ph.D., Ph.D./M.D. or equivalent) and between 2 and 5 years of postdoctoral research experience at the time of application.

In light of research disruptions related to COVID-19, NINDS has extended eligibility beyond 5 years of postdoctoral research experience for those whose eligibility is expiring in the near future. See NOT-NS-20-076 for the full policy.

Applicants for diversity-related career development programs will be expected to attach a Description of Candidate’s Contribution to Program Goals, explaining how the candidate’s participation would further the goals of the program to promote diversity in health-related research (see Notice of NIH’s Interest in Diversity NOT-OD-20-031).

Salary and Research Costs
During Phase I NIH will contribute salary commensurate with the applicant institution's salary structure for persons of equivalent qualifications, experience, and rank, up to $50,000 plus fringe benefits per year. During Phase II, NIH will contribute up to $100,000, commensurate with salary and effort, as well as fringe benefits, toward the salary of the career award recipient. NIH will contribute up to $25,000 in Phase I and $100,000 in Phase 2 per year toward the research and career development costs of the award recipient, which must be justified and consistent with the stage of development of the candidate and the proportion of time to be spent in research or career development activities.

NINDS is the only IC participating in these FOAs. NINDS will not support projects, regardless of the results of merit review, if they do not fulfill current programmatic priorities at NINDS. We strongly recommend that potential applicants consult Scientific/Research Staff at NINDS before preparing an application.

Not sure whether your research qualifies as a human mechanistic clinical trial/study? 
Applicants are strongly advised to consult with NINDS program staff prior to submitting an application with human subjects to determine the appropriate funding opportunity.
NIH definition of a clinical trial