The AHRQ Patient-Centered Outcomes Research (PCOR) Mentored Research Scientist Career Development Award (K01) aims to develop a diverse pool of research scientists skilled in comparative effectiveness research (CER) methods, applied to PCOR. This program supports qualified researchers for three to five years to enhance their skills under an experienced mentor, enabling them to transition to independent research careers. The award fosters methodological training in CER and emphasizes stakeholder engagement in research question selection, study execution, and dissemination. It aligns with the broader goal of improving health outcomes through evidence-based information tailored to diverse populations and real-world healthcare settings.

Funding supports salary up to $90,000 per year and research expenses up to $25,000 annually, with fringe benefits included. Candidates must commit at least 75% of their professional effort to career development activities. Eligible expenses include tuition, research-related costs, and travel for training. The total award period cannot exceed five years. Proposals may include clinical trials as part of the candidate’s training. Indirect costs are capped at 8% of modified total direct costs. Institutional support and commitment to the candidate’s development are required, including protected time for research and access to necessary facilities and resources.

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based higher education institutions (public or private), nonprofits, and tribal organizations. Individuals must have a research or health-professional doctoral degree (e.g., Ph.D., Sc.D., Dr.P.H.) and be U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or permanent residents. Candidates from underrepresented groups and those with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Previous recipients of mentored career development awards or principal investigators of significant research grants are ineligible. Applicants must be registered in systems such as SAM, Grants.gov, and eRA Commons.

Applications must include a career development plan, research strategy, and detailed mentoring arrangements. The proposal should demonstrate the alignment of the research plan with CER and PCOR objectives, emphasizing equity and healthcare quality for priority populations, including racial and ethnic minorities, women, children, and rural or underserved communities. Proposed research should incorporate stakeholder engagement and offer plans for dissemination and implementation of findings.

Review criteria include the candidate’s potential for independence, the quality of the career development plan, the significance and innovation of the research project, and the qualifications of the mentoring team. The institutional environment and commitment to the candidate’s success are also critical. Reviewers will assess inclusion plans for priority populations, protections for human subjects, and resource sharing plans.

Applications are due on standard NIH deadlines, with review and funding decisions typically taking eight months. Awardees are required to submit annual progress reports and a final report upon project completion. For assistance, applicants may contact the AHRQ Division of Research Education or the Division of Scientific Review. Detailed guidance and requirements are available in the AHRQ Funding Policy Statement and the SF424 (R&R) Application Guide.