Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (Parent K23 Independent Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
About
The purpose of the NIH Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (K23) is to support the career development of individuals with a clinical doctoral degree who have made a commitment to focus their research endeavors on patient-oriented research.
The Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (Parent K23) is a prestigious National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant designed to support early-career researchers with clinical doctoral degrees who are committed to conducting patient-oriented research. This award recognizes and funds investigators who want to establish themselves as independent researchers while maintaining a focus on questions directly relevant to patient health and clinical outcomes. The K23 program provides mentorship and protected research time, allowing awardees to develop their research skills and independence under the guidance of experienced mentors. Eligible applicants include researchers from a diverse range of institutional backgrounds, including HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian serving institutions, and other community-based organizations. This award is ideal for clinical researchers seeking to transition from postdoctoral positions to independent investigator status while pursuing patient-centered research questions. The deadline for applications is May 7, 2027. Researchers interested in building a career focused on translating scientific findings into improved patient care should strongly consider applying.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
May 7, 2027
Who can apply
Last verified August 3, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Funding Range
Varies by cycle
Grant Type
federal
Best For
Early-career clinical researchers committed to patient-oriented research; researchers from underrepresented institutions; clinician-scientists in academic medicine
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 Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (Parent K23)?
Eligible applicants include individuals with clinical doctoral degrees committed to patient-oriented research. Eligible institutions include 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 Agencies of the Federal Government. For complete eligibility criteria, including career stage requirements and mentoring requirements, visit the official NIH website.
How much funding does the Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (Parent K23) provide?
Funding amounts vary by cycle and individual circumstances. Visit the official NIH NRSA (National Research Service Award) website or the specific funding announcement for current fiscal year details on award amounts and funding periods.
How do I apply for the Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (Parent K23)?
Applications are submitted through Grants.gov and the NIH ASSIST system. You will need to develop a research plan focused on patient-oriented research questions, identify a mentor, and demonstrate institutional commitment. The next deadline is May 7, 2027. Consult the official NIH K23 funding announcement for detailed instructions, required documents, and submission procedures.
What can the Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (Parent K23) funding be used for?
K23 funding supports career development activities for junior researchers, including protected research time, mentoring, and research-related training. Funds support the awardee's research plan focused on patient-oriented research questions. This award specifically does not allow independent clinical trials. Consult the funding announcement for detailed budget guidelines and allowable expenses.
Last updated: August 3, 2026