Imaging - Science Track Award for Research Transition (I/START) (R03 Clinical Trial Optional)
About
This Notice of Funding Opportunity Announcement (NOFO) is designed to encourage and facilitate the entry of investigators to the area of brain imaging research. This NOFO will support both newly independent investigators and established investigators who are seeking to develop and adopt neuroimaging tools and methodologies in their research programs and conduct small "proof-of-concept" studies relevant to substance use disorders and addiction. This NOFO is intended to support Small Research Grant (R03) projects that can be carried out in a short period of time with limited resources.
The Imaging - Science Track Award for Research Transition (I/START) (R03 Clinical Trial Optional) is a federally-funded grant program designed to support researchers entering or expanding their work in brain imaging research, particularly as it relates to substance use disorders and addiction. This grant is ideal for newly independent investigators and established researchers who want to develop, adopt, or implement neuroimaging tools and methodologies within their research programs. The I/START program funds small "proof-of-concept" studies that can be completed within a limited timeframe using restricted resources, making it an excellent entry point for researchers seeking to transition into neuroimaging research without requiring extensive preliminary data. Eligible applicants include researchers at a wide range of institutions, including HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian serving institutions, and other underrepresented academic settings. With funding up to $150,000, this R03 Small Research Grant program provides researchers the opportunity to generate preliminary data, validate new imaging approaches, and establish feasibility of novel neuroimaging applications in addiction research. The clinical trial optional component offers flexibility for applicants whose research designs may include clinical trial elements.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
January 7, 2028
Award Amount
Up to $150K
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
Up to $150K
Deadline
2028-01-07
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual with deadline of January 7, 2028
Best For
Newly independent and established investigators entering or expanding brain imaging research; researchers at HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, and other underrepresented academic institutions; substance use disorder and addiction researchers
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 Imaging - Science Track Award for Research Transition (I/START) (R03 Clinical Trial Optional)?
Eligible applicants include newly independent investigators and established investigators seeking to enter or expand brain imaging research. Eligible institutions 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 (AANAPISISs), and other community-based and faith-based organizations. Eligible Federal agencies also may apply. For complete and current eligibility requirements, please visit the official funding agency website.
How much funding does Imaging - Science Track Award for Research Transition (I/START) (R03 Clinical Trial Optional) provide?
This grant program provides up to $150,000 in funding. The R03 Small Research Grant is designed for limited-scope projects that can be completed within a short timeframe with restricted resources. For specific budget details and how funds may be allocated, consult the official Notice of Funding Opportunity Announcement (NOFO).
How do I apply for Imaging - Science Track Award for Research Transition (I/START) (R03 Clinical Trial Optional)?
Applications are submitted through the official federal grants portal. The application deadline is January 7, 2028. Applicants should prepare a detailed research proposal outlining their neuroimaging research plan, institutional support documentation, and budget justification. Visit the official funding agency website for complete application instructions, required forms, and submission procedures.
What can Imaging - Science Track Award for Research Transition (I/START) (R03 Clinical Trial Optional) funding be used for?
Funding supports small "proof-of-concept" studies focused on developing, adopting, or implementing neuroimaging tools and methodologies relevant to substance use disorders and addiction research. This includes costs associated with designing and conducting pilot studies to establish feasibility of novel brain imaging approaches, preliminary data collection, and validation of new neuroimaging methods. Clinical trial optional components may also be funded if applicable to the research design.
Last updated: July 5, 2026