The "Midcareer Investigator Award in Patient-Oriented Research (K24)" from the NIH provides support to mid-career clinicians to focus more on patient-oriented research (POR) and mentor junior clinical researchers. This award allows mid-career investigators, typically at the Associate Professor level, to protect time away from clinical or administrative duties and dedicate 25-50% of their professional effort to POR. The K24 award is intended for those with an established independent research program and a track record of mentoring junior investigators, particularly in clinical research. Candidates are expected to continue developing their research skills and mentor future clinical scientists to enhance their capabilities in patient-oriented research.

This opportunity supports research that directly involves human subjects, including studies on mechanisms of human diseases, clinical trials, therapeutic interventions, and the development of new technologies. Candidates applying for this award are not permitted to lead clinical trials but may participate in trials led by mentors or co-mentors. Those interested in leading clinical trials should consider applying to the companion announcement (PA-24-187). Importantly, the program is designed to help investigators gain additional skills, ensure continuous independent research, and contribute to the development of new clinical investigators through mentorship.

The K24 award supports salary and research-related expenses. NIH will fund up to $50,000 annually for research supplies, travel to research-related courses, and statistical services. The salary provided covers 25-50% of the investigator’s time based on the institutional salary rate and NIH’s salary cap. The total project period may not exceed five years, and recipients are expected to obtain further peer-reviewed funding and assume leadership roles in collaborative POR programs during this time.

Eligible applicants include those with health-professional doctoral degrees (MD, DO, DDS, etc.) and at mid-career levels (usually Associate Professor or equivalent) who have demonstrated a successful track record in independent patient-oriented research and mentorship. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or permanent residents. Institutions applying for the K24 must demonstrate a strong research environment and provide the candidate with the necessary resources to continue research and mentoring activities.

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov using NIH’s ASSIST or other electronic submission systems. Candidates must include a detailed research plan that highlights current and future research activities, a comprehensive plan for mentoring junior clinical investigators, and a strategy for the continued development of their research program. NIH standard due dates apply, with the next due date being June 12, 2024. The K24 award is not subject to intergovernmental review, and applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early to allow time for corrections.