The NIDCD Early Career Research (ECR) Award (R21), issued by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), supports emerging scientists beginning to establish an independent research career. This grant, designated as R21, funds exploratory and developmental research focused on the NIDCD’s scientific mission areas, including hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech, and language. Projects funded through this mechanism should aim to collect preliminary data necessary for future applications to larger grants, such as the R01, with the option of including clinical trials. This funding opportunity number is PAR-25-120, reissuing prior announcements and reflecting updated guidelines and submission details.

Applications for this grant may propose a variety of research activities, such as secondary data analysis, translational research, development of research methodologies, or new technology development. While hypothesis-driven proposals are accepted, they are not mandatory. Instead, emphasis is placed on feasibility, the potential to gather foundational data, and the formulation of research hypotheses. Preliminary data are not required but may be included to demonstrate project feasibility. This grant particularly benefits early career clinical researchers who may later apply for an NIDCD K08 or K23 career development award.

Funding is subject to annual NIH appropriations, with direct costs limited to $375,000 over the entire project period and no more than $125,000 in any single year. The grant’s project period can extend up to three years, depending on the project scope. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, state and local governments, tribal organizations, and other eligible entities. Principal investigators (PIs) must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or hold a valid U.S. visa, and must be within seven years of their terminal degree, excluding clinical training time. Extensions to this eligibility period may be requested in cases of significant productivity delays, and these requests must be submitted before the eligibility period expires.

Applications are accepted multiple times per year, with submission deadlines in February, June, and October, extending annually through October 2027. Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov and be completed in accordance with NIH’s updated application guidance (FORMS-I), which will be made available prior to the first due date. The application must adhere strictly to NIH guidelines to avoid delays or rejections. Reviewers will evaluate applications based on the significance, innovation, approach, investigator expertise, and available resources. Additional considerations for review include feasibility, the potential for data reproducibility, and whether the project aligns with NIH's scientific rigor and ethical standards.

The award process includes NIH’s scientific peer review, with successful applications receiving Notice of Award notifications to initiate funding. The NIDCD has designated specific contacts for scientific inquiries, peer review questions, and financial matters. For more information on application requirements, eligibility, and scientific inquiries, applicants can refer to the specified program contacts within NIDCD.