The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) is a funding opportunity managed by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), designed to support the education and training of dual-degree clinician-scientists. This initiative is structured under the T32 Institutional National Research Service Award (NRSA) mechanism and was reissued under Funding Opportunity Number PAR-24-128. It aims to enhance biomedical research training by integrating clinical education with rigorous scientific research experiences. The program fosters the development of clinician-scientists who can accelerate the translation of research into medical advancements, improve public health outcomes, and reduce health disparities.

The MSTP focuses on training individuals pursuing dual degrees such as M.D./Ph.D., D.O./Ph.D., D.V.M./Ph.D., among others. It promotes the incorporation of evidence-informed training practices, comprehensive mentoring structures, and an interdisciplinary approach that reflects the complexity and evolving nature of biomedical research. Programs must emphasize technical, operational, and professional skill development, including rigorous research methods, data analysis, scientific communication, and leadership. Participating institutions are expected to create a supportive, safe, and inclusive training environment and commit to the full support of trainees throughout the duration of the dual-degree program.

Funding can be used to cover stipends, tuition, and training-related expenses such as health insurance, travel, and research supplies. Awards can last up to five years, and while budgets are not capped, they must reflect actual needs. Indirect costs are reimbursed at a fixed rate of 8% of modified total direct costs. While MSTP trainees cannot lead independent clinical trials, they may gain experience participating in mentor-led trials. Programs are encouraged to build synergies with other federally funded training efforts without duplicating goals.

Eligibility extends to public and private higher education institutions, nonprofits, local governments, tribal organizations, and other U.S.-based entities. Only domestic institutions may apply. Applicants must be properly registered in various federal systems (SAM, Grants.gov, eRA Commons) and use one of several authorized platforms to submit their applications. The application must include training plans, organizational support letters, data tables, evaluation plans, and faculty and mentor descriptions.

Applications are reviewed based on a detailed set of criteria that include the strength and integration of the training environment, commitment to safety and diversity, qualifications of participating faculty, program oversight mechanisms, and evidence of past success. Review cycles occur three times annually, with due dates in January, May, and September through 2026. The next due date is May 25, 2024, and the program runs through January 26, 2027. NIGMS accepts only one MSTP application per institution and encourages early submission to ensure compliance.