The AHRQ Mentored Research Scientist Career Development Award (K01) provides support to individuals with a research doctoral degree who are committed to developing careers in health services research. This award is intended to ensure a diverse pool of highly trained scientists are available to meet the nation’s needs in health services research. The K01 grant offers protected time (3-5 years) for research career development, enabling candidates to receive mentored training and conduct research to advance their independent research careers. This opportunity is designed for individuals at different stages of career development, including those new to the field or those returning after a career hiatus.

The funding scope includes salary support up to $90,000 per year, with an additional $25,000 annually for research development costs such as tuition, research supplies, equipment, travel, and statistical services. Awardees must dedicate at least 75% of their professional effort to career development activities. The research supported by the K01 grant must align with AHRQ’s mission of improving the safety, quality, accessibility, and equity of healthcare in the United States. While research focusing on international healthcare systems is not eligible, projects addressing health disparities or priority populations (e.g., minorities, the elderly, rural populations, etc.) are strongly encouraged.

Eligibility is open to individuals with a research doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D., Sc.D., or Dr.P.H., who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Applicants must not have been a principal investigator on a major research grant (e.g., R01) but may have been involved in smaller grants or institutional career development programs. The sponsoring institution must have a strong research environment with a commitment to the candidate’s development as an independent investigator.

To apply, candidates must submit their application through ASSIST or Grants.gov. The application should follow the SF424 (R&R) guidelines, including specific career development instructions. A detailed research plan, career development plan, and mentor’s plan for guiding the candidate’s progress are required. The mentor must have a strong record of independent research and mentoring experience. The candidate's research project should demonstrate innovation, significance, and feasibility, and the career development plan should clearly support the transition to research independence.

Applications are reviewed based on scientific merit, candidate potential, career development plans, research environment, and institutional commitment. Reviewers will also consider the inclusion of priority populations and alignment with AHRQ’s mission. Typically, it takes about eight months from submission to the earliest possible start date of the grant. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, and multiple submissions from the same institution are allowed if they are scientifically distinct.

This funding opportunity is open until November 10, 2025, with standard application deadlines. Recipients are required to submit annual progress reports, including data on publications, presentations, and grants. Additionally, awardees are encouraged to seek further independent funding in the final years of their K01 award, potentially reducing the effort required under the career award as they transition to larger research projects.