The NHLBI Career Transition Award (K22) provides an opportunity for postdoctoral fellows and other doctoral-level researchers currently in training within the NHLBI Division of Intramural Research to transition to extramural institutions as junior investigators. This award is structured in two phases: an intramural mentored research phase of up to two years, followed by an extramural phase of independent research lasting three years, totaling five years of support. Transition to the extramural phase is contingent upon successful completion of the intramural phase, as assessed by an NHLBI progress review. This evaluation will include the candidate’s research accomplishments and a plan for their independent research at the extramural institution.

This funding opportunity requires candidates to lead an independent clinical trial, a feasibility study, or an ancillary study related to an existing trial. Those not proposing to serve as lead investigators in such trials should apply to the companion NOFO (PAR-24-209). The program aims to support candidates in developing a research career in cardiovascular, pulmonary, hematologic, and sleep disorders research. The NHLBI will provide salary support and funding for research expenses during both phases, with up to $249,000 per year available during the extramural phase. However, the salary must not exceed the legislative cap, and indirect costs are limited to 8% of modified total direct costs.

Eligible applicants include current postdoctoral fellows or researchers in the NHLBI intramural program with no more than five years of full-time research experience there. Applicants must have a clinical or research doctorate and demonstrate potential for developing into independent investigators. To qualify for the extramural phase, candidates must secure a tenure-track faculty position (or equivalent) and submit an application detailing their transition plans. The host institution must show commitment by providing research resources, protected time for research (at least 75% effort), and a startup package comparable to what is provided to newly hired faculty without grant support.

The application process involves multiple steps, including submitting letters of reference, a detailed career development and research plan, and assurances of institutional support. The mentor must be an established NHLBI investigator with a history of training successful researchers. During the intramural phase, the mentor will provide annual progress evaluations. For the extramural phase, the new institution must submit a separate application detailing the candidate's progress and research plans, including evidence of the institution's commitment to the candidate's development as an independent researcher.

The program does not allow foreign institutions or components, and eligibility is restricted to U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or permanent residents. Multiple applications from the same institution are permitted if they represent different candidates. The K22 award aims to support the career progression of researchers, potentially leading to independent research funding, such as an R01 grant. Recipients of this award are not precluded from pursuing tenure-track positions at the NIH but must transition to extramural settings for the K22's independent phase.