The "Emerging Global Leader Award (K43 Independent Clinical Trial Required)" is a grant opportunity provided by the Fogarty International Center (FIC) and various National Institutes of Health (NIH) components. This award aims to support early-career research scientists from low- or middle-income countries (LMICs) to advance their independent research careers, specifically in clinical trials or clinical trial-related studies. This funding provides protected time (three to five years) for mentored research career development. The goal is to help the awardee become an independent researcher while contributing to their country's health priorities.

The program targets LMIC-based scientists in junior faculty or equivalent research positions who propose a research project relevant to the health issues in their country. Applicants must have a U.S.-based mentor and a mentor from their LMIC institution to guide their career development and research. The proposed research must involve an independent clinical trial, a feasibility study, or an ancillary clinical trial to address health concerns in the LMIC. The research focus can span various health disciplines, such as cardiovascular, mental health, genomics, environmental health, and more.

The NIH will provide up to $100,000 per year toward the awardee's salary for a minimum 75% commitment to the program, along with up to $40,000 annually for research development expenses. This funding covers a range of research-related expenses, such as supplies, equipment, travel, and statistical services, but does not include mentor salaries or administrative costs. The award's project period can last from three to five years, depending on the proposal.

Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of an LMIC, hold a junior faculty or equivalent position at an LMIC institution, and have been in this position for at least one year. The LMIC institution must commit to providing 75% of the applicant's time for research. The award is not open to U.S.-based scientists or those with significant previous research grants, such as R01 awards. Applicants must also comply with NIH’s registration requirements, such as maintaining an active System for Award Management (SAM) registration and having an eRA Commons ID and ORCID iD.

Applications must include a detailed career development plan, mentor statements, and a research project proposal that fits within the LMIC's health priorities. A focus on building research capacity at the LMIC institution is essential. The application process is conducted through Grants.gov, and applicants are encouraged to submit a letter of intent by November 2024, with full applications due by December 2024. The review process will assess the candidate’s potential for independent research, the research plan’s relevance and feasibility, and the strength of the mentoring team and institutional environment.