D-START: Data Science Track Award for Research Transition (D/START) (R03-Clinical Trial Optional)
About
Data science is an important cross-cutting research approach in the 2022 - 2026 NIDA Strategic Plan and increasing the capacity of experts in addiction related data science is critical. The purpose of this Notice is to facilitate the entry of investigators to the area of addiction-related data science, including newly independent data scientists or established investigators seeking to incorporate novel and cutting-edge data science methodologies into their research programs for the first time. Through this opportunity, investigators will propose to apply emerging data science methods to answer critical questions requiring advanced data analytic strategies. Projects should be small in scale and answer specific research questions or provide preliminary data for a larger scale project. Applicants are encouraged to use existing datasets, follow FAIR principles, and, when applicable, attend to ethical concerns in the conduct of research involving human subjects. Ultimately, the aim is to expedite the development of robust research programs focused on the convergence of innovative data science techniques and addiction research, with initial projects serving as precursors for subsequent, more expansive research projects.
The D-START: Data Science Track Award for Research Transition (R03-Clinical Trial Optional) is a federal grant program designed to build capacity in addiction-related data science research. This opportunity is ideal for newly independent data scientists and established researchers who want to incorporate cutting-edge data science methodologies into their addiction research programs for the first time. The grant supports small-scale, focused research projects that apply emerging data science methods to answer critical questions in addiction research or generate preliminary data for larger-scale studies. Applicants are encouraged to leverage existing datasets while following FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles and addressing ethical considerations in human subjects research. The program aligns with NIDA's 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, which prioritizes data science as a cross-cutting research approach. Eligible applicants include HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian serving institutions, AANAPISIs, Indian/Native American tribal governments, faith-based and community-based organizations, and eligible federal agencies. This grant is perfect for researchers seeking to transition into addiction data science with funding up to $100,000, making it an accessible entry point for developing robust research programs that combine innovative data science techniques with addiction research expertise.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
September 7, 2027
Award Amount
Up to $100K
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
Up to $100K
Deadline
2027-09-07
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual (Deadline: September 7, 2027)
Best For
Data scientists and addiction researchers at HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, tribal governments, and other eligible organizations seeking to develop addiction-related data science research programs
Eligibility
Other Eligible Applicants include the following: Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions; Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISISs); Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government; Faith-based or Community-based Organizations; Hispanic-serving Institutions; Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs); Indian/Native American Tribal Govern
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for D-START: Data Science Track Award for Research Transition (D/START) (R03-Clinical Trial Optional)?
Eligible applicants include newly independent data scientists and established investigators seeking to incorporate novel data science methodologies into addiction research for the first time. Specific eligible institutions and organizations include Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-serving institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian serving institutions, Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs), Indian/Native American tribal governments, faith-based and community-based organizations, and eligible federal agencies. For complete and current eligibility requirements, visit the official NIDA website or grants.nih.gov.
How much funding does D-START: Data Science Track Award for Research Transition (D/START) (R03-Clinical Trial Optional) provide?
This grant program provides funding up to $100,000. The exact award amount may vary based on the scope of your proposed research project and funding cycle. For the most current information on funding amounts and any adjustments by fiscal year, consult the official NIDA program announcement or grants.nih.gov.
How do I apply for D-START: Data Science Track Award for Research Transition (D/START) (R03-Clinical Trial Optional)?
Applications are submitted through grants.nih.gov using the NIH application system. You will need to prepare a research proposal that describes your innovative data science methods, the addiction-related research questions you aim to address, and how your project advances addiction data science capacity. The deadline for submissions is September 7, 2027. Visit the official NIDA program page on grants.nih.gov for detailed application instructions, required forms, and submission guidelines.
What can D-START: Data Science Track Award for Research Transition (D/START) (R03-Clinical Trial Optional) funding be used for?
Funding supports small-scale research projects that apply emerging data science methods to answer specific research questions in addiction science or generate preliminary data for larger-scale studies. Projects should propose the application of novel and cutting-edge data science methodologies to addiction-related research. Applicants are encouraged to use existing datasets and follow FAIR principles. The program welcomes projects with clinical trial components as indicated by the 'R03-Clinical Trial Optional' designation. For specific allowable costs and restrictions, contact NIDA or review the full program announcement on grants.nih.gov.
Last updated: July 5, 2026