The NIDCR Dentist Scientist Career Transition Award (K22) aims to help qualified dentist scientists transition from postdoctoral roles at the NIH to independent faculty positions at U.S.-based extramural institutions. This grant, managed by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), supports awardees with a structured two-phase program. The first phase provides up to two years of mentored postdoctoral research within the NIH Intramural Research Program, while the second phase offers three years of funding to support independent research at a qualified academic institution. The program is open to applicants who do not intend to lead an independent clinical trial but may participate in clinical trials led by their mentors.

This opportunity is focused on developing dentist scientists' skills through comprehensive training in dental, oral, and craniofacial research fields. The grant’s overarching goal is to support candidates as they establish themselves as independent researchers and contributors to health-related scientific research. Eligible applicants should review the NIH’s Research Career Development Program details to ensure this award aligns with their career goals and existing experience. Phase 1 at the NIH provides intramural resources and mentorship, while Phase 2 enables the recipient to transition to an extramural institution with support from a structured start-up package comparable to that provided to tenure-track assistant professors.

Funding for the intramural phase is provided through NIH resources, while the extramural phase budget supports up to $249,000 annually, covering salary, research allowances, and indirect costs. Eligible expenses include research-related costs, though administrative and support personnel salaries are not covered. Phase 2 requires a strong institutional commitment, with institutions agreeing to provide research resources, space, and a competitive start-up package for the awardee. During both phases, recipients must dedicate a minimum of 75% of their time to research and career development.

The grant is open to U.S.-based organizations including higher education institutions, nonprofits, government entities, and for-profit organizations. Applicant organizations must complete specific registrations with federal entities such as SAM, Grants.gov, and eRA Commons before submission. The principal investigator must be a U.S. citizen or lawful resident, possess a relevant doctoral degree, and demonstrate potential for an independent research career. Importantly, applicants should not already hold independent research positions; obtaining such positions before the award makes the applicant ineligible for this program.

Applications are reviewed based on the candidate’s potential to develop into an independent investigator, the quality of the research and career development plans, the proposed research’s scientific merit, and the commitment and expertise of the mentors and sponsoring institutions. Reviewers assess the adequacy of plans for the responsible conduct of research, inclusion of diverse populations, and if applicable, ethical considerations for human and animal subjects. A phased evaluation is also conducted to ensure that institutional support and research progress align with the program's objectives.

Applications can be submitted starting January 12, 2025, with the first due date on February 12, 2025. Subsequent deadlines follow NIH’s standard cycle dates, extending to October 12, 2027. Applicants should track submission progress in eRA Commons and resolve any issues prior to the due date. Upon successful submission, proposals are peer-reviewed, and final funding decisions are based on scientific merit, program relevance, and funding availability.