The Mentored Research Scientist Development Award (K01) offered by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides support for individuals at the early stages of their research careers. This grant is specifically designed for applicants who are proposing research that does not involve leading an independent clinical trial. Instead, candidates may engage in research associated with a clinical trial led by a mentor or co-mentor. The program aims to foster the development of independent investigators by providing protected time—ranging from three to five years—for intensive, supervised career development in biomedical, behavioral, or clinical sciences.

The primary goal of this grant is to ensure the availability of a skilled workforce to meet the country’s ongoing biomedical and clinical research needs. Participating NIH Institutes and Centers (ICs) use this mechanism to support a range of candidates, including those seeking to transition into new fields or returning to research after a career hiatus due to personal or health reasons. Applicants are strongly advised to consult the Table of IC-Specific Information, Requirements, and Staff Contacts to ensure that their application aligns with the participating ICs' specific priorities and requirements.

The grant provides both salary support and additional funding for research-related expenses. Eligible expenses may include tuition, supplies, travel to conferences or training, and statistical services. However, funding does not cover salary for mentors, administrative assistants, or clerical support. The grant is intended for a maximum duration of five years, with indirect costs reimbursed at a fixed rate of 8 percent of modified total direct costs. This opportunity does not permit cost-sharing or matching requirements.

Eligible applicants include individuals from a wide range of organizations such as higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, local and state governments, and tribal organizations. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or permanent residents by the time of the award. Importantly, candidates must not have served as a principal investigator on substantial NIH awards such as R01s or other major career development awards. Individuals with prior support from small-scale grants like R03, R21, or SBIR/STTR remain eligible.

Applications are accepted on NIH standard due dates, with deadlines every four months from June through February each year. The earliest application date for this funding cycle begins May 12, 2024, with the funding opportunity expiring on May 8, 2027. Applicants must submit materials through Grants.gov and complete all required registrations, including SAM, eRA Commons, and ORCID.

Evaluation of applications will be based on criteria including the candidate’s potential for independent research, the strength and relevance of the career development plan, the quality of the proposed research project, the mentor's expertise and support, and the institutional environment. Reviewers will also consider compliance with responsible conduct of research, inclusion of diverse populations, and the use of vertebrate animals, if applicable. Successful applicants will receive a Notice of Award and be required to comply with all standard NIH grant administration policies and reporting requirements.