The "Career Transition Award for NINDS Intramural Clinician-Scientists (K22 Clinical Trial Required)" is designed to support licensed neurologists and neurosurgeons in the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) intramural program who aim to transition to independent academic faculty positions. This award facilitates the development of clinician-scientists capable of leading research and clinical activities. It supports the completion of a research project and career development plan that includes the lead investigator role in a clinical trial, ancillary clinical trial, or feasibility study.

This K22 program spans up to five years, with a maximum of two years in the mentored intramural phase and at least three years in the extramural phase. Transition to the extramural phase requires recipients to secure a faculty position at an academic institution with a significant commitment to research and career development. The institution must provide resources, mentorship, and protected research time (75% effort for neurologists, 50% for neurosurgeons). During the extramural phase, institutions must ensure recipients can independently pursue the research project initiated during the intramural phase, leading to a strong application for an NIH R01 or equivalent award by the end of the fourth year.

Eligible applicants include licensed neurologists and neurosurgeons within four years of completing their residency or fellowship, employed in the NINDS intramural program, and committed to a dual career in research and clinical practice. Candidates must demonstrate prior research experience, potential for independence, and the ability to lead a clinical trial. Applicants with other career development awards, prior R01-equivalent funding, or those who are independent researchers are not eligible. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is required.

During the intramural phase, salary and research development costs are supported by NINDS. In the extramural phase, NIH will contribute up to $125,000 annually for salary and $50,000 for research-related expenses. Indirect costs are limited to 8%. Applicants must collaborate with a mentor or mentoring team, including an external mentor to guide transition to an extramural position.

The application includes detailed plans for career development, research, and mentorship. It must emphasize rigorous experimental design, statistical analysis, and preparation for independent research leadership. The research project should address significant scientific questions within the NINDS mission and transition seamlessly between the intramural and extramural phases. Applicants must include a description of how the clinical trial advances scientific understanding or practice.

Applications are due on standard NIH submission dates, beginning February 12, 2025. Submissions must adhere to NIH guidelines and include a career development plan, research proposal, mentorship details, and institutional commitments. The transition to the extramural phase requires approval and evidence of substantial progress, including institutional support for the research and career development objectives.

For further assistance, applicants are encouraged to consult NINDS contacts listed in the funding announcement.