NIH and NIAID have a longstanding interest in diversity, as research shows that diverse teams working together and capitalizing on innovative ideas and distinct perspectives outperform homogenous teams. Recent evidence demonstrates that having a diverse scientific and public health workforce benefits research on issues such as COVID-19, HIV, and asthma, which disproportionately impact underrepresented groups.

In our new funding opportunity announcement NIAID Research Opportunities for New and "At-Risk" Investigators to Promote Workforce Diversity (R01, Clinical Trial Optional), eligible individuals are invited to submit investigator-initiated research project grant applications within the scope of NIAID's scientific areas of focus, e.g., microbiology and infectious diseases; AIDS and AIDS-related research; immunology; allergy; transplantation; and emerging or re-emerging infectious diseases.

To be eligible, the principal investigator(s) (PIs) must (each) be one of the following:

• New Investigator—have not competed successfully for substantial, independent NIH funding.
• At-Risk Investigator—have had substantial, independent NIH funding as a PI and, unless successful in securing a substantial research grant award in the current fiscal year, will have no substantial research grant funding in the following fiscal year.

Investigators from diverse backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups, are encouraged to work with their institutions to apply for support through this initiative. As part of the application, the institution must provide an Eligibility Certification Letter that includes verification of the PI’s status as a New or At-Risk Investigator as well as a statement explaining how the PI’s participation would further the goals of the FOA consistent with Notice of NIH’s Interest in Diversity.

Successful applicants will attend an awardee workshop during the project period, convened by NIAID once every 3 years to foster networking, collaboration, mentorship, and career development.

Learn more or register for the  webinar on October 24 at 2pm