Institutional Training for the Predoctoral and Postdoctoral Research Workforce (T90/R90 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), intends to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aimed at enhancing predoctoral and postdoctoral research training. This effort is part of a broader initiative to develop a well-qualified research workforce capable of advancing the nation's biomedical, behavioral, and clinical research priorities. The initiative will utilize both the T90 (Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award - NRSA) and R90 (Research Education Grant) activity codes. While the T90 supports individuals who meet the NRSA qualifications, the R90 accommodates those who do not, thereby broadening participation in research training programs. This funding opportunity targets domestic institutions with the capacity to provide structured and high-quality research training. The NOFO encourages institutions to foster meaningful collaborations and develop projects that respond to the NIH’s scientific priorities. Investigators with experience in mentor-mentee training, scientific discipline integration, and workforce development are especially encouraged to prepare for this funding round. Emphasis is also placed on interdisciplinary collaborations that integrate knowledge across multiple scientific fields. Currently, this is a forecasted opportunity and applications are not being accepted yet. However, advance notice is provided to give institutions adequate time to form partnerships and design competitive training proposals. The estimated posting date of the NOFO is April 1, 2026, with applications expected to be due by September 25, 2026. Awards are projected to be announced by June 1, 2027, and funded projects would start on July 1, 2027. Eligible applicants include a wide range of entities such as for-profit organizations (excluding small businesses), federally recognized Native American tribal governments, state governments, public and private institutions of higher education, and nonprofits with 501(c)(3) IRS status. Additional tribal organizations not federally recognized are also eligible. This broad eligibility framework is designed to include diverse institutional types capable of supporting the NIH’s training goals. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for applicants. Key components of a successful application will likely include strong institutional commitment to training, a structured curriculum, capable mentoring faculty, and clearly articulated goals for participant outcomes. Though detailed application questions have not yet been released, applicants are advised to begin preparations well in advance. For further details or inquiries about the NOFO, interested parties may contact Dr. Michele McGuirl at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. She can be reached by phone at 240-401-8466 or via email at michele.mcguirl@nih.gov.