The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) is offering a funding opportunity under the **R03 Small Grant Program** titled *“NIDCR Small Research Grants for Oral Health Data Analysis and Statistical Methodology Development”*. This opportunity, numbered **PAR-22-160**, supports research projects focused on **secondary data analyses of existing oral, dental, or craniofacial datasets** or the development of statistical methods to analyze such data. The funding aims to maximize the value of previously collected data by addressing new research questions or improving analytical methods. Clinical trials are not allowed under this funding opportunity.

The primary goal of this initiative is to leverage existing databases to generate new insights into oral health issues or develop statistical methodologies applicable to dental, oral, and craniofacial research. Eligible projects may involve the integration of diverse datasets, including electronic health records, registries, imaging data, or health economic data. Projects should be distinct from the original objectives of the dataset but must justify the relevance and quality of the proposed data. Priority will be given to research that focuses on causal relationships rather than descriptive or confirmatory analyses. Hypothesis-testing projects are preferred, though hypothesis-generating studies may be considered with sufficient justification. Applications proposing new statistical methodologies must demonstrate the need for their development and their relevance to oral health research.

The program allows a **maximum budget of $100,000 in direct costs per year**, with a total cap of **$200,000 over two years**. The grant does not support clinical trials, and the project period cannot exceed two years. Applicants may submit **new applications** or **resubmissions**. The number of awards depends on the availability of funds and the merit of submitted applications.

Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, non-profits, for-profit organizations, small businesses, state and local governments, tribal organizations, public housing authorities, and foreign institutions. Individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge are encouraged to apply through their affiliated organizations. All applicants must complete registrations in **SAM.gov**, **Grants.gov**, and **eRA Commons** before submission, as failure to do so will delay or disqualify applications.

Applications will be reviewed based on their significance, innovation, approach, investigator qualifications, and feasibility. Proposals should include a clear justification of data quality, plans to address bias or deficiencies, and a detailed study timeline. Studies that contribute to NIDCR’s strategic goals and identify causal mechanisms of behavior change or intervention mechanisms will be prioritized. Additional review criteria include protections for human subjects, inclusion of diverse populations, and resource-sharing plans. The project must comply with NIH policies on data management, sharing, and accessibility.

Applications are due according to the NIH standard dates, with deadlines occurring in February, June, and October annually. The next anticipated start date is April 2025. Submissions must be made electronically through **Grants.gov** using the NIH ASSIST system or institutional system-to-system solutions. Applicants are encouraged to submit early to allow time for correcting errors identified during the submission process. For further assistance, scientific and administrative contacts are provided, including Lorena Baccaglini, DDS, MS, PhD, as the primary program contact.

This funding opportunity reflects NIDCR’s commitment to advancing dental and craniofacial research through cost-effective analyses and improved statistical methodologies that address critical gaps in knowledge and support the strategic goals of the institute.