Global Infectious Diseases Research Training Program (D43 Clinical Trial Optional)

The Global Infectious Diseases Research Training Program (D43 Clinical Trial Optional), issued by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is a federally funded opportunity designed to build sustainable research capacity in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This initiative is a part of NIH’s ongoing commitment to global health security and aims to support rigorous research training programs that address infectious diseases with implications for both the global community and the United States. The program aligns with the mission of multiple NIH Institutes, Centers, or Offices, and encourages interdisciplinary collaboration to foster comprehensive approaches to infectious disease research. The primary objective of the D43 program is to provide advanced, long-term research training to LMIC scientists in the field of infectious diseases. Emphasis is placed on diseases that pose potential threats to U.S. populations or provide special opportunities for research in LMICs—such as those influenced by unique environmental factors, specific exposed populations, or availability of unique biological resources. Trainees will be immersed in intensive mentorship environments and gain skills in data-driven research methodologies, responsible conduct of research, biosafety practices, and essential professional development areas. Each funded program is expected to offer both long-term and complementary short-term training activities, with a curriculum tailored to strengthen the research capabilities of the LMIC institution and foster enduring partnerships with U.S.-based research organizations. One of the key components of the program is that trainee research projects should be directly linked to existing NIH-funded studies. This ensures the alignment of training activities with broader NIH research investments and helps maximize the impact of the initiative in global health contexts. The opportunity does not require cost sharing or matching contributions, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based nonprofits (both with and without 501(c)(3) status), public and private institutions of higher education, and eligible non-U.S. (foreign) institutions. This wide eligibility is designed to foster inclusive collaboration between institutions across nations, ensuring the generation of scalable and contextually relevant research outputs. As a forecasted opportunity, the estimated post date for the funding opportunity is April 16, 2026, with a projected application due date of August 6, 2026. The anticipated award date and project start date are both scheduled for March 15, 2027, aligning with NIH’s fiscal year 2027. This timeline allows potential applicants ample time to prepare robust proposals, including establishing necessary international partnerships, developing detailed training plans, and aligning their research goals with relevant NIH priorities. Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov, and all applicants are encouraged to ensure that their proposals are relevant to at least one participating NIH Institute, Center, or Office. The program does not include mandatory pre-application steps such as a Letter of Intent or Concept Paper. Evaluation will likely consider the strength of the proposed training plan, alignment with NIH’s infectious disease research goals, capacity building potential, and the sustainability of the U.S.-LMIC partnerships. For additional programmatic information, applicants may contact Dr. Geetha Bansal at 301-496-1492 within the NIH's FIC Infectious Diseases Program.