The NIH's "Multidisciplinary Studies of HIV/AIDS and Aging" program (R21 Clinical Trial Optional) invites exploratory or developmental research applications focused on the intersection of HIV and aging. This program aims to improve understanding of the biological, clinical, and socio-behavioral aspects of aging through the lens of HIV infection and its treatment. It also seeks innovative approaches for testing, preventing, and treating HIV and managing associated comorbidities, co-infections, and complications. Proposed research must align with NIH’s Office of AIDS Research (OAR) priorities.

Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profits, and local, state, and federal government entities, as well as foreign organizations. The R21 mechanism supports projects lasting up to two years, with a total direct cost budget not exceeding $275,000 over the project period (maximum of $200,000 in a single year). Applications must be submitted electronically and adhere to NIH’s registration requirements, including SAM.gov, eRA Commons, and Grants.gov.

Priority research areas include the role of HIV and its treatment in accelerated aging, interactions between HIV and other age-related diseases, and studies incorporating geriatric medicine and quality-of-life outcomes. Proposals are encouraged to focus on older populations, especially those aged 70 and above, and to leverage existing NIH-supported resources like HIV cohort studies. Projects exploring novel hypotheses, methodologies, or interdisciplinary approaches are particularly encouraged, with preliminary data not required.

The review process emphasizes significance, innovation, and rigor, as well as the investigators’ expertise and institutional resources. Applications must include a research plan, data-sharing plan, and appropriate justifications for methodology, controls, and sample size. Additional considerations include protection of human subjects, biohazards, and alignment with OAR’s research priorities. Applications that fail to address these criteria will not be reviewed.

Submission deadlines occur three times annually, starting May 7, 2025, with subsequent cycles running through January 2027. Early submission is encouraged to resolve technical issues before deadlines. Applicants are advised to consult NIH program officials for guidance on aligning projects with the missions of participating institutes such as NIA, NIMH, NHLBI, and NCI.

This program offers an opportunity to explore new scientific directions in HIV and aging, leveraging innovative methodologies and fostering multidisciplinary collaborations to address the complex challenges of aging populations living with HIV.