The funding opportunity "Schizophrenia and Related Disorders During Mid- to Late-Life (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)" by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) seeks to support exploratory research focused on schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders in individuals aged 35 and older. This grant is designed to advance translational research to better understand the emergence, trajectory, and outcomes of these disorders during mid- to late-life and to identify targets for developing prevention and treatment interventions. The R21 mechanism is ideal for high-risk, high-reward projects without extensive preliminary data, while its companion R01 funding opportunity targets more extensive projects with preliminary data.

The purpose of this grant is to encourage studies that investigate biological, behavioral, psychosocial, and environmental mechanisms contributing to schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders during mid- to late-life. It emphasizes the importance of understanding how these mechanisms influence disease onset, progression, and outcomes, including the intersection with aging-related processes. The research should aim to identify targets for future interventions and strategies to optimize healthcare and community services for affected individuals. Projects may utilize innovative methodologies, such as high-field neuroimaging and advanced computational techniques, to explore these questions.

Funding is provided for a maximum project period of two years, with a combined direct cost budget of up to $275,000 and no more than $200,000 requested in any single year. Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, for-profit entities, local and state governments, and foreign institutions. Proposals may include clinical trials but are not required to do so. Applicants must complete registrations with SAM.gov, eRA Commons, and other relevant platforms prior to submission.

Key deadlines include an earliest submission date of January 16, 2025, and application due dates of February 16, June 16, and October 16 annually through September 2026. Applications must be submitted electronically through ASSIST, Grants.gov, or institutional submission systems. Proposals should follow the instructions in the NIH Application Guide, including the inclusion of a robust data-sharing and management plan aligned with NIH policies.

The review process evaluates applications based on the significance of the research, its scientific rigor and feasibility, innovation, and the expertise and resources available to the investigators. Priority will be given to proposals that address understudied populations, integrate multiple levels of analysis (e.g., genetic, cellular, behavioral), and employ cutting-edge tools or methodologies. Proposals are expected to contribute to scientific knowledge and advance understanding of the aging-related aspects of schizophrenia and psychotic disorders.

Contact information for scientific, administrative, and submission-related inquiries is provided in the announcement. Applicants are encouraged to reach out to NIH program staff for guidance to ensure alignment with the funding opportunity’s objectives. Full compliance with submission and policy guidelines is required for consideration.