Mentored Career Transition Award for Intramural Fellows (K22 Clinical Trials Required)

The Mentored Career Transition Award for Intramural Fellows (K22 Clinical Trials Required), administered by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is a competitive funding mechanism specifically designed to facilitate the transition of postdoctoral researchers in the NIH Division of Intramural Research Programs (DIRP) to independent, tenure-track or equivalent faculty positions within U.S.-based academic institutions. This opportunity is distinctive in that it mandates the inclusion of an independent clinical trial or a related ancillary or feasibility study, thus supporting applicants whose future career plans are deeply embedded in clinical research. The K22 award program is structured in two distinct but connected phases: an intramural phase and an extramural phase. The intramural phase allows applicants to complete research within the NIH DIRP under direct mentorship while preparing for an independent career. Upon securing a suitable academic position at a U.S. institution, awardees may transition to the extramural phase. During this phase, continued mentorship and research support are provided, with the goal of launching a robust, competitive independent research program. This mechanism supports not just scientific independence but also the establishment of a research identity within the clinical research community. Eligible applicants include a wide range of institutional types, including public and private institutions of higher education, tribal governments, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, and various governmental entities. Additional eligible entities comprise faith-based and community-based organizations, regional organizations, and certain types of serving institutions (e.g., Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-serving Institutions, and Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities). Notably, while non-U.S. entities are generally excluded from applying, foreign components as defined by NIH policy may be involved, indicating a nuanced allowance for international collaboration within U.S.-based frameworks. Applicants must propose to lead an independent clinical trial or a qualifying ancillary study. Those who plan only to gain experience by working on someone else’s trial should apply under the companion FOA (PA-18-NNN). This highlights the program's emphasis on cultivating leadership and autonomy in clinical research endeavors. The award encourages applications from candidates committed to mental health research, as indicated by the associated Assistance Listing (CFDA) number 93.242, which pertains to Mental Health Research Grants. Submissions must be made via Grants.gov and must comply with the stated deadline of December 16, 2025. There are no cost-sharing or matching requirements. While specific funding amounts, total program funding, and the number of awards are not disclosed in the synopsis, the award structure supports multi-year funding through both phases, including research support during the extramural phase. Key contact information includes the NIH Grants Information service, accessible via [email protected], with further contact details found in Section VII of the full opportunity announcement linked on the NIH website. The opportunity is recurring and has a prior cycle, suggesting applicants may expect future rounds if they are not ready for the current deadline. The archive date is set for January 15, 2026, providing some flexibility for those reviewing the solicitation after the close date. Given the FOA’s design and timeline, potential applicants should begin preparations early, especially if their proposed clinical trial involves significant regulatory or institutional review processes.