Research Program Award (R35 Clinical Trial Optional)

The purpose of the NINDS Research Program Award (RPA) is to provide longer-term support, and increased freedom and flexibility, to Program Directors (PDs)/Principal Investigators (PIs), to allow them to redirect their time away from the administrative burden of writing and managing multiple grant applications and towards engaging in the lab. This RPA affords investigators at most career stages the opportunity to advance their long-term research goals, rigorously explore exciting research opportunities, and mentor students and postdoctorates, which support and align with the mission of NINDS. RPAs will support the overall research programs of NINDS-funded investigators for up to 8 years, at a level commensurate with a PD/PIs recent NINDS support (Part 2, Section II). This funding stability will provide eligible investigators increased security, allowing them to undertake research projects that require a longer timeframe or to embark upon research that breaks new ground. Research activities outside of the NINDS mission, or traditionally supported by another NIH Institute or Center, will not be considered through this program. Benefits of the RPA include: A more stable funding environment, facilitating the pursuit of longer-term research goals; Flexible funding, enabling investigators to pursue research opportunities as they arise, not tied to specific aims; Reduced time spent writing grant applications and managing multiple grant awards, allowing investigators to spend more time conducting and overseeing research; More time for PDs/PIs to mentor and foster a diverse workforce in their laboratories. NINDS is committed to enhancing the diversity and inclusiveness of the neuroscience workforce. A diverse NIH-supported scientific workforce, including individuals from underrepresented groups, fosters scientific innovation, enhances global competitiveness, contributes to robust learning environments, and improves the quality of the research. See the Notice of NIH