The Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program in Employment (FOA number: HHS-2025-ACL-NIDILRR-AREM-0102) is part of the broader ARRT initiative aimed at increasing the capacity for high-quality disability and rehabilitation research. This specific funding opportunity focuses on employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities and is offered by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) under the Administration for Community Living (ACL). The primary goal is to support advanced training for researchers, particularly those from underrepresented groups, including individuals with disabilities, to develop expertise in employment-related rehabilitation research.

The purpose of this funding is to enhance the skills of researchers with advanced degrees (such as PhD, MD, or JD) to conduct rigorous, multidisciplinary research related to the employment of people with disabilities. This training is expected to support the implementation of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and improve the effectiveness of services authorized under the Act. Projects funded under this opportunity must include didactic instruction, multidisciplinary training with an emphasis on scientific methodology, and opportunities for both practical research and mentorship. Additionally, it is required that projects provide training for at least one academic year and ensure that trainees are adequately prepared to conduct independent research upon completion.

This grant offers an estimated total funding of $250,000 per budget period, with a total project period of up to 60 months, consisting of five 12-month budget periods. Only one award is expected, and only institutions of higher education are eligible to apply. The award ceiling is set at $250,000 per budget period, and the program does not require cost-sharing or matching, though applicants can voluntarily propose to contribute non-federal resources. Institutions are encouraged to submit their letter of intent by November 7, 2024, with the full application due by December 2, 2024. Applications are to be submitted electronically via Grants.gov, and an informational conference call will be held on October 25, 2024.

The application process involves several key components, including a project narrative that clearly outlines the proposed training activities, a work plan covering all five years of the project, and a detailed budget justification. Applicants must also submit letters of commitment from key participating organizations, as well as a summary of the individuals involved in the project. It is crucial that applications meet accessibility requirements under Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, ensuring that any digital products developed are compliant with current web content accessibility standards (WCAG 2.0/2.1 AA).

Applications will be evaluated by a NIDILRR-administered peer review panel based on several criteria, including the importance of the research problem, the design and adequacy of the training activities, and the quality of the project staff. Special emphasis is placed on recruiting trainees from underrepresented populations, including individuals with disabilities and racial or ethnic minorities. Additionally, the proposed training methods should be of high quality, intensity, and duration to develop highly qualified researchers, and adequate mentorship must be provided to each trainee.

The anticipated start date for the project is June 1, 2025. Successful applicants will be notified electronically through a Notice of Award, and they must adhere to the federal administrative and national policy requirements, including compliance with nondiscrimination laws. Financial and performance reporting will also be required to ensure that the program's objectives are being met effectively, and to maintain transparency regarding the use of federal funds.