Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Award (Parent K08 Independent Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
About
The primary purpose of the NIH Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Awards (K08) program is to prepare qualified individuals for careers that have a significant impact on the health-related research needs of the Nation. This program represents the continuation of a long-standing NIH program that provides support and "protected time" to individuals with a clinical doctoral degree for an intensive, supervised research career development experience in the fields of biomedical and behavioral research, including translational research.
The Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Award (Parent K08) is a prestigious NIH program designed to support individuals with clinical doctoral degrees who are pursuing careers in biomedical and behavioral research. This grant program provides essential 'protected time' and intensive mentorship to help early-career clinical scientists develop into independent researchers capable of addressing critical health-related research needs across the nation. The program emphasizes research career development in translational research and related biomedical fields, enabling clinicians to transition from clinical practice to research leadership. Eligible applicants include researchers from diverse institutional backgrounds, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-serving Institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions, and other eligible organizations. This award represents a long-standing NIH commitment to nurturing the next generation of clinical scientists who will drive innovation and discovery in health-related research. Applicants should note that independent clinical trials are not allowed under this parent award mechanism. For specific funding amounts, detailed eligibility requirements, and application procedures, interested researchers should consult the official NIH website for the most current information.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
May 8, 2027
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Funding Range
Varies by cycle
Deadline
2027-05-08
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual
Best For
Clinical scientists with doctoral degrees from diverse institutional backgrounds, including HBCUs, Hispanic-serving Institutions, and other eligible organizations pursuing biomedical and behavioral research careers
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 the Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Award (Parent K08)?
Eligible applicants include individuals with clinical doctoral degrees pursuing research careers in biomedical and behavioral research. Eligible institutions encompass 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), Faith-based or Community-based Organizations, and eligible Federal Government agencies. For complete eligibility criteria and specific requirements regarding clinical degree types and career stage, applicants should visit the official NIH grants website.
How much funding does the Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Award (Parent K08) provide?
Specific funding amounts vary by grant cycle and individual application. For current funding information, including award ranges and budget details for the upcoming cycle, please consult the official NIH announcement on Grants.gov or the NIH website.
What is the deadline for applying to the Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Award (Parent K08)?
The next deadline listed is May 8, 2027. However, NIH typically has multiple application deadlines throughout the year for career development awards. Applicants should verify current and upcoming deadlines on the official NIH website or Grants.gov, as deadlines may vary by submission type.
How do I apply for the Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Award (Parent K08)?
Applications are submitted through Grants.gov using the NIH electronic application system. Applicants must prepare a research proposal, mentor letter, institutional commitment documentation, and other required materials as specified in the program announcement. It is strongly recommended to review the full program announcement on the NIH website for detailed instructions, formatting requirements, and submission guidelines before beginning your application.
What can Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Award (Parent K08) funding be used for?
Funding supports research career development for clinical scientists in biomedical and behavioral research, including translational research. The award provides salary support and resources for an intensive, supervised research experience. However, independent clinical trials are not permitted under this parent award. For detailed information about allowable expenses and specific budget categories, applicants should consult the official NIH program announcement.
Last updated: July 5, 2026