The Advancing Research Careers (ARC) Predoctoral to Postdoctoral Transition Award to Promote Diversity (F99/K00), administered by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), seeks to enhance diversity in the biomedical research workforce. It supports late-stage Ph.D. students from diverse backgrounds, including underrepresented groups, to transition successfully into mentored postdoctoral research and advance toward impactful biomedical careers. The program provides structured, two-phase funding: the F99 phase supports the completion of Ph.D. dissertation research, while the K00 phase facilitates career development during postdoctoral research. Participants benefit from mentorship, networking, and professional development through NIH-funded institutional programs.

The program's primary goal is to increase the participation of individuals from underrepresented groups, such as certain racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and others identified in the NIH Notice of Interest in Diversity, addressing critical barriers to diversity in academic, government, and industry research settings. The award specifically excludes independent clinical trials but allows research involvement in clinical trials led by a sponsor.

Funding includes stipends during the F99 phase consistent with NIH NRSA guidelines, institutional allowances for research-related expenses, and salary support during the K00 phase. K00 awards cover up to three years of mentored postdoctoral training, with additional research development costs up to $5,000 annually. Eligibility is limited to U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or permanent residents pursuing Ph.D. or equivalent research degrees, excluding dual-degree clinician-scientist training programs such as M.D./Ph.D. Applicants must propose research aligned with the missions of the participating NIH Institutes, such as NIGMS, NIBIB, NEI, NCCIH, and others.

Applications must adhere to the NIH Application Guide and include a tailored research training plan, a diversity statement, and mentor-provided plans emphasizing inclusivity and skill development. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to diversity, propose a dissertation research plan for the F99 phase, and outline a broad postdoctoral research direction for the K00 phase. Institutions must affirm their commitment to fostering diversity and providing an inclusive research environment.

Evaluation criteria focus on the candidate's potential, research training plan, and institutional support. Reviewers assess the proposed training’s ability to enhance diversity, meet career development goals, and transition participants to impactful research careers. Key dates for submissions follow NIH standard deadlines, with the earliest start date for awards in April 2025.

The program underscores NIH’s commitment to diversifying the research workforce, aligning with its strategic goals to enhance innovation and address health disparities. Prospective applicants are encouraged to consult NIH program officers early in the application process for guidance.