Advancing Research Careers through Mentoring Networks (ARCMN) (UE5 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Institutes of Health, is planning to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Advancing Research Careers through Mentoring Networks (ARCMN) initiative. This program, which will be issued under the UE5 cooperative agreement mechanism, is forecasted to support mentoring networks across NIH mission areas. The aim of the ARCMN program is to provide structured research education activities that strengthen professional development for emerging scientists, particularly graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, clinician scientists, and early career investigators. The program will emphasize mentorship in scientific, technical, and career development, as well as training in scientific communication and grant writing. The central goal of ARCMN is to build sustainable mentoring networks that improve retention and advancement in research careers for participants. These networks are intended to prepare early-stage scientists for success in securing NIH research funding and to ensure that promising talent remains engaged in biomedical research. Applicants will be encouraged to design collaborative, transdisciplinary approaches that strengthen the breadth of mentorship and scientific expertise provided to participants. Programs will be expected to create training opportunities that address workforce development and provide participants with the skills and resources necessary for independent research careers. Eligible applicants include a broad spectrum of organizations such as independent school districts, state and county governments, federally recognized and non-federally recognized tribal entities, public housing authorities, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, public and private institutions of higher education, and for-profit organizations including small businesses. To be considered eligible, organizations must demonstrate sufficient capacity to support the program, including the availability of qualified staff, facilities, and educational infrastructure. Partnerships are encouraged, with one institution designated as the primary performance site. The anticipated timeline for this opportunity begins with the estimated post date of April 1, 2026. Applications are expected to be due by September 25, 2026, with awards anticipated on June 1, 2027, and projects starting on July 1, 2027. As of now, no pre-application deadlines such as letters of intent or concept papers have been announced, though applicants are advised to monitor updates as the formal NOFO is released. The program is not yet accepting applications, as this is currently a forecasted opportunity. The funding opportunity falls under Assistance Listing 93.121, Oral Diseases and Disorders Research, reflecting NIDCR’s leadership role, although other NIH Institutes and Centers may participate. Specific details regarding total program funding, award ceiling, and award floor have not yet been announced. Matching funds are not required, and the program is expected to fund multiple awards, though the precise number is not specified in the forecast notice. Questions regarding this opportunity may be directed to Michele McGuirl, PhD, at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. She can be reached at 240-401-8466 or via email at michele.mcguirl@nih.gov. Interested applicants should begin developing collaborations and preparing responsive project concepts in advance of the official solicitation, which is expected to provide further detail on application requirements, evaluation criteria, and review processes.