The NIAID Career Transition Award (K22 Independent Clinical Trial Not Allowed) is a funding opportunity provided by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) to support postdoctoral fellows transitioning to tenure-track faculty positions as independent researchers. This award is structured to facilitate the transition from mentored research to an independent research career in the field of biomedical sciences, particularly for those who are not leading an independent clinical trial. However, applicants may gain experience working on a clinical trial led by another investigator.

This FOA supports a two-phase program: Phase I occurs during the postdoctoral fellowship, and Phase II begins after securing an independent, tenure-track position (e.g., assistant professor) at a U.S. institution. Candidates must submit a K22 application from their postdoctoral institution, either at NIH or elsewhere. If the application receives a meritorious score, the candidate is given 12 months to secure a tenure-track position to activate the award. The award provides up to two years of funding to help researchers establish their independent programs and compete for larger research grants, such as an R01.

Eligible applicants must have a doctoral degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent), a strong research background, and less than five years of postdoctoral research training at the time of the application. They must also not have held an independent research position or served as the principal investigator on major NIH grants such as the R01. Candidates from underrepresented groups in biomedical research are strongly encouraged to apply. Non-U.S. entities cannot apply, but foreign components in U.S. institutions are allowed.

The financial structure of the award includes up to $150,000 in direct costs during the first year and $100,000 in the second year. These funds may be used for research-related expenses such as salary (up to $50,000 annually), research supplies, equipment, and travel to scientific meetings. Indirect costs are limited to 8% of modified total direct costs. There is no budget cap on Phase I; however, the Phase II budget must align with the provided limits.

The review process will evaluate the candidate’s potential for becoming an independent researcher, the research plan's scientific merit, and the institutional environment’s ability to support the candidate’s transition to independence. Reviewers will also assess the proposed career development plan and its suitability to the candidate's long-term research goals. The application must demonstrate a strong plan for training in the responsible conduct of research.

Key dates follow standard NIH submission cycles, with the first application due February 25, 2022, and an expiration date of January 8, 2025. All applications must be submitted through the appropriate electronic systems (e.g., NIH ASSIST or Grants.gov). Applicants should ensure all required registrations (SAM, DUNS, eRA Commons) are completed well in advance of the submission deadlines.

In summary, the NIAID K22 Career Transition Award offers a valuable opportunity for postdoctoral fellows to establish independent research careers in biomedical sciences, providing critical support during their transition to faculty positions.