LAUNCHing Leaders for Future U.S. Investments in Global Health Research (D43 Clinical Trial Optional)

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has forecasted a new grant opportunity titled LAUNCHing Leaders for Future U.S. Investments in Global Health Research (D43 Clinical Trial Optional). This program is designed to support the training of early career researchers in the United States by providing immersive experiences in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The initiative builds on NIH’s long-standing mission to advance biomedical and behavioral sciences through international collaboration and capacity building, with the goal of equipping a new generation of researchers with the skills and perspectives necessary to address global health challenges. The LAUNCH program will establish consortia consisting of four U.S. research institutions and at least six collaborating research-intensive institutions or sites in LMICs. These consortia will deliver one-year mentored research training programs targeting both pre-doctoral and post-doctoral trainees. The program emphasizes cross-national collaboration, requiring partnerships between U.S. trainees and LMIC peers. This design ensures that the research experience incorporates both technical training and the diverse scientific contexts found in resource-limited settings, thereby preparing participants to address pressing health issues both in the United States and abroad. The scope of training encompasses areas of biomedical and behavioral science aligned with the priorities of participating NIH institutes, centers, and offices. The funded programs will provide research mentorship, professional development, technical skills training, and structured career guidance. In addition, trainees will benefit from networking opportunities and collaborative research environments, fostering their potential to become independent researchers capable of leading global health initiatives in the future. Eligibility for this program includes public and state-controlled institutions of higher education, private institutions of higher education, and other eligible applicants as defined under NIH’s Grants Policy Statement. Importantly, foreign components are permitted, broadening the scope for international partnerships. This allows institutions to design projects that leverage both U.S.-based expertise and LMIC contexts in a structured, mentored environment. The forecast outlines key dates for the program. The estimated posting date for the full application is March 2, 2026, with an estimated application due date of May 25, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced on February 15, 2027, with funded projects beginning on July 1, 2027. Since this is currently a forecasted opportunity, applicants should monitor NIH announcements and Grants.gov for updates when the full solicitation is released. At present, information regarding total program funding, award ceilings, and award floors has not yet been provided. Similarly, no matching requirements are indicated, with the current forecast specifying that cost sharing is not required. Additional details on evaluation criteria, application questions, and funding amounts will likely be included once the final funding announcement is issued. For further information, prospective applicants may contact UnJa Hayes at NIH, who can be reached via email at unja.hayes@nih.gov or by phone at 301-827-7024. Applicants are encouraged to prepare early by forming partnerships with eligible LMIC institutions and reviewing NIH policy guidance relevant to international components.