DoW Spinal Cord Injury, Investigator-Initiated Research Award
About
Summary: The fiscal year 2026 (FY26) Spinal Cord Injury Research Program (SCIRP) Investigator-Initiated Research Award (IIRA) supports studies that have the potential to make an important contribution to spinal cord injury (SCI) research, patient care and/or quality of life. May focus on any phase of research from basic through translational science, though studies that focus solely on identifying intervention targets are discouraged. Distinctive Features: • This funding opportunity contains an Early-Career Partnership Option, which allows for two Principal Investigators (PIs). If this option is selected, at least one of the named PIs must be an early-career investigator. Only the initiating PI will submit a pre-application, but all PIs will need to submit full applications. The partnering PI’s application is an abbreviated package specific to their distinct portion of the research project. If recommended for funding, each PI will be named on a separate award to the recipient organization(s). Be advised, all associated applications for a research project may be withdrawn if the initiating or partnering application is rejected or administratively withdrawn.
The DoW Spinal Cord Injury, Investigator-Initiated Research Award (IIRA) supports innovative research projects that advance spinal cord injury (SCI) treatment, patient care, and quality of life outcomes. This grant is designed for qualified researchers and investigator teams committed to advancing the field through rigorous scientific inquiry. The program welcomes studies across all research phases, from fundamental basic science through translational research, enabling investigators to explore critical questions in spinal cord injury pathology, recovery mechanisms, and clinical interventions. A distinctive feature is the Early-Career Partnership Option, which allows two Principal Investigators to collaborate on a single project, with at least one being an early-career investigator. This collaborative structure supports mentorship and knowledge-sharing while advancing SCI research priorities. Researchers interested in pursuing this funding should be prepared to demonstrate how their work will meaningfully contribute to understanding and improving outcomes for individuals living with spinal cord injuries. The program encourages applications that go beyond target identification to explore actionable solutions and evidence-based approaches. For current funding amounts, detailed eligibility requirements, and specific application procedures, researchers should consult the official Department of Defense or program website.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
November 12, 2026
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Funding Range
Not specified - consult official program website
Deadline
2026-11-12
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual cycle with FY2026 deadline of November 12, 2026; pre-application followed by full application
Best For
Academic researchers, medical institutions, research centers with qualified investigators pursuing spinal cord injury research
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for DoW Spinal Cord Injury, Investigator-Initiated Research Award?
Specific eligibility criteria are not detailed in the available program information. Typically, DoD research grants require that applicants be affiliated with eligible institutions such as academic medical centers, research institutions, or healthcare organizations. The Early-Career Partnership Option requires at least one PI to be designated as an early-career investigator. For complete eligibility requirements, including institutional qualifications and investigator credentials, applicants should review the official DoD grant announcement or program website.
How much funding does DoW Spinal Cord Injury, Investigator-Initiated Research Award provide?
Specific funding amounts for FY2026 are not currently available in the program summary. Award amounts typically vary by research scope, project duration, and specific program cycles. Applicants should visit the official DoD Spinal Cord Injury Research Program website or the grants.gov listing for current funding ranges and budget guidelines for the FY2026 cycle.
How do I apply for DoW Spinal Cord Injury, Investigator-Initiated Research Award?
The application process involves submission of a pre-application followed by a full application if selected to proceed. For the Early-Career Partnership Option, only the initiating PI submits the pre-application, though all PIs must submit full applications if advanced. The partnering PI's application is an abbreviated package. Applications are submitted through the official DoD grants portal. Visit the Department of Defense Spinal Cord Injury Research Program website or grants.gov for detailed instructions, submission deadlines, required documentation, and portal access information.
What can DoW Spinal Cord Injury, Investigator-Initiated Research Award funding be used for?
This grant supports spinal cord injury research across multiple phases, from basic science through translational research. Eligible studies focus on advancing SCI patient care, improving quality of life, and contributing meaningfully to the field. The program discourages applications that solely identify intervention targets without progressing toward actionable solutions. Funding supports investigator-initiated projects that have the potential to make important contributions to understanding and treating spinal cord injuries.
Last updated: July 5, 2026