The NIH funding opportunity "Advancement and Innovation in Measurement of Language Development and Predictors" (R21) aims to foster research that expands the understanding of environmental factors and innovative metrics that support children's language development. This program seeks to create culturally and linguistically responsive, strengths-focused, and generalizable tools for measuring children's language skills and identifying predictors of language impairments. The initiative emphasizes community-engaged research (CEr) to ensure tools are relevant, impactful, and equitable across diverse populations.

Projects may explore novel methods for assessing language environments and development, such as dynamic assessments, automation techniques, multi-modal communication measures, and culturally responsive metrics. Emphasis is placed on expanding theoretical frameworks and practical tools that enhance accuracy in identifying children needing interventions and understanding effective intervention targets. Applications must include plans for enhancing diverse perspectives (PEDP) and community engagement (CE), which are integral to the program's goals of inclusivity and generalizability.

Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, non-profits, for-profits, local governments, and international entities. The R21 mechanism is designed for exploratory projects, supporting budgets up to $275,000 over two years, with no more than $200,000 in direct costs allowed in a single year. Proposals should focus on pilot or early-stage research without requiring extensive preliminary data.

Applicants must submit a detailed CE plan describing collaborations with community partners at all research stages. A PEDP, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity in research teams, participants, and study approaches, is also required. Both plans will be evaluated during the review process for scientific and technical merit. Additionally, proposals must include a Data Management and Sharing Plan to align with NIH policies.

Key submission dates begin on February 16, 2025, with additional cycles until September 2027. Applications must adhere to NIH guidelines for submission and registration processes, including registrations with SAM.gov, eRA Commons, and Grants.gov. Proposals that lack required plans, such as the CE plan or PEDP, will be deemed nonresponsive and not reviewed.

The review process evaluates the significance, innovation, feasibility, and rigor of the proposed research, along with investigator expertise and institutional support. Special attention is given to the integration of diverse perspectives and the engagement of community partners in advancing the relevance and applicability of the research. Award decisions will consider scientific merit, alignment with program priorities, and availability of funds.

Awardees are required to submit progress reports, including updates on PEDP and CE activities. Data and resources developed through the grant must adhere to NIH sharing policies to promote reproducibility and widespread impact. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact program staff for guidance on responsiveness to this funding opportunity.