Forecast for NINDS Child Neurologist Career Development Program (CNCDP) (K12 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), operating under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has forecasted a new funding opportunity for the continuation of the NINDS Child Neurologist Career Development Program (CNCDP). This grant opportunity, designated as FOR-NS-25-006, is expected to use the K12 activity code and does not allow for clinical trials. The CNCDP is a national initiative with the overarching goal of developing a pipeline of child neurologists who are highly trained to conduct rigorous research in pediatric neurological disorders. The program capitalizes on these professionals' clinical expertise to encourage research careers that advance understanding and treatment of conditions affecting children’s nervous systems. The CNCDP K12 program is expected to continue in its previous structure, modeled closely on the former NOFO RFA-NS-19-040, although applicants should be aware that the upcoming Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) will not be identical. Both new applicants and those seeking renewal are welcome to apply. The anticipated structure includes housing the program at the principal investigator’s (PD/PI's) home institution while operating on a national scale. Oversight will be provided by the PD/PI and a national advisory committee. Only one national program will be supported under this initiative. Applications are not currently being accepted as this is a forecasted opportunity intended to provide sufficient time for potential applicants to build collaborative relationships and prepare responsive projects. The estimated post date for the full NOFO is June 27, 2025, with applications anticipated to be due by September 19, 2025. Awards are projected to be issued by July 1, 2026, with projects also expected to commence on that date. This timeline allows for early engagement by institutions interested in fostering the research capacity of emerging clinician-scientists. The funding opportunity falls under Assistance Listing 93.853, supporting extramural research in neurosciences and neurological disorders. A total of approximately $3.4 million in program funding is anticipated, though award ceiling and floor amounts have not yet been specified. One award is expected to be made under this forecast. Matching funds are not required. Given the national scope of this program and its alignment with the NIH's workforce development objectives, the program is expected to support substantial mentorship and structured research training components across eligible institutions. Eligible applicants include a range of institutions such as public and private institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations with IRS 501(c)(3) status (excluding higher education institutions), and Native American tribal organizations and governments. The eligibility criteria allow for wide participation by institutions capable of hosting and managing a national training effort. For further information, potential applicants are encouraged to contact Letitia Weigand, Ph.D., Director of the Office of Training & Workforce Development at NINDS. She can be reached via email at letitia.weigand@nih.gov or by phone at 301-496-4188. Although specific application instructions will be published with the full NOFO, this forecast provides an opportunity for institutions and investigators to begin preparations well in advance of the official release.