The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is forecasting the release of a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the NIMH Biobehavioral Research Awards for Innovative New Scientists (NIMH BRAINS). This initiative is designed to support exceptionally productive early-career scientists committed to long-term research careers in NIMH's mission areas. The opportunity seeks to foster the development of innovative clinical, translational, or basic research that has the potential to significantly advance the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of mental health disorders.
This funding initiative employs the R01 activity code, which supports discrete, specified, and circumscribed research projects. The BRAINS program aims to help launch new, potentially transformative research programs during the critical early stages of a scientist’s career. This allows awardees the time and resources necessary to develop highly impactful scientific programs focused on mental illness.
While the NOFO is not yet open for applications, the forecast is issued to allow potential applicants ample time to establish collaborative relationships and develop comprehensive and responsive proposals. The anticipated post date for the official NOFO is September 20, 2025, with an estimated application due date of October 20, 2025. The projected award and project start date is July 1, 2026.
The total estimated funding for this program is $3 million, with around six awards expected. While the award ceiling and floor are not specified at this time, there is no requirement for cost sharing or matching funds.
Eligible applicants include a broad range of organizations, including state and county governments, for-profit organizations other than small businesses, small businesses, independent school districts, public and private institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status (excluding higher education institutions), federally and non-federally recognized Native American tribal entities, and public housing authorities.
Applicants are advised to monitor the Grants.gov listing for updates. For additional information or questions regarding this funding opportunity, contact Eric R. Murphy, Ph.D., at the National Institute of Mental Health via phone at 301-443-9230 or email at eric.murphy@nih.gov.
