DoW Parkinson’s, Early Investigator Research Award
About
Summary: The fiscal year 2026 (FY26) Parkinson’s Research Program (PRP) Early Investigator Research Award (EIRA) supports Parkinson’s disease (PD) research for investigators in the early stages of their careers. The FY26 EIRA offers two funding levels, which align to the research career stage of the Principal Investigator (PI). Funding Level 1 (for fellows) requires the investigator to receive guidance from a designated Mentor, whereas Funding Level 2 (for early-career independent investigators) does not. Proposed research must address at least one of the four FY26 PRP Focus Areas. Distinctive Features: · The Early Investigator is considered the PI of the application and must exhibit strong potential for and commitment to pursuing a career as an investigator at the forefront of PD research; however, the PI is not required to have previous PD research experience. · Funding Level 1: Applications must include at least one Mentor appropriate to the proposed research project who has experience in PD research and mentoring, as demonstrated by a record of active funding, recent publications, and successful mentorship. The selected Mentor(s) should also demonstrate a clear commitment to the development of the PI toward independence as a PD researcher. Preliminary data are encouraged but not required. · Funding Level 2: Mentor not required. Preliminary data are required. · Clinical trials are not allowed.
The DoW Parkinson's, Early Investigator Research Award (EIRA) is designed to support emerging researchers who are committed to advancing Parkinson's disease (PD) research. This competitive grant program recognizes that early-career investigators bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to understanding and treating Parkinson's disease. The program offers two distinct funding levels tailored to different career stages: Funding Level 1 supports fellows and requires mentorship from an experienced PD researcher, while Funding Level 2 supports early-career independent investigators without a mentor requirement. Proposed research must align with at least one of the FY26 Parkinson's Research Program (PRP) Focus Areas. Notably, applicants are not required to have prior PD research experience, making this an excellent opportunity for researchers transitioning into the field. Clinical trials are not permitted under this award. If you are an early-stage investigator with strong potential and commitment to pursuing a career in Parkinson's disease research, this grant provides crucial funding and mentorship support to launch or accelerate your independent research program.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
November 6, 2026
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Funding Range
Amount varies by cycle and level; see official announcement for FY26 specifics
Deadline
2026-11-06
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual (FY26 deadline November 6, 2026)
Best For
Early-stage researchers and fellows in Parkinson's disease research without prior PD experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for DoW Parkinson's, Early Investigator Research Award?
This award is intended for early-stage investigators in Parkinson's disease research. Funding Level 1 is designed for fellows and requires a designated mentor with PD research experience and a mentoring record. Funding Level 2 is for early-career independent investigators and does not require a mentor. Prior PD research experience is not required, but applicants must demonstrate strong potential and commitment to pursuing a career in PD research. For complete eligibility criteria, visit the official Department of Defense grant website.
How much funding does DoW Parkinson's, Early Investigator Research Award provide?
The specific funding amounts for FY26 have not been disclosed in available materials. Award amounts may vary by funding level and research scope. For current funding ranges and budget limits, please consult the official FY26 PRP EIRA funding opportunity announcement on the Department of Defense website.
How do I apply for DoW Parkinson's, Early Investigator Research Award?
Applications are submitted through the official Department of Defense grant portal. The FY26 application deadline is November 6, 2026. To apply, you will need to submit a research proposal that addresses at least one FY26 PRP Focus Area, and if applying for Funding Level 1, identify an appropriate mentor. For detailed application instructions, submission requirements, and portal access, visit the official DoD Parkinson's Research Program website.
What can DoW Parkinson's, Early Investigator Research Award funding be used for?
Funding supports Parkinson's disease research proposed by early-stage investigators. Research must address at least one of the four FY26 PRP Focus Areas. Preliminary data are encouraged for Funding Level 1 applications but not required; they are required for Funding Level 2 applications. Clinical trials are not permitted. For specific guidance on allowable research activities and budget categories, consult the official funding opportunity announcement.
Last updated: July 5, 2026