NIH Director’s Early Independence Award (DP5 Clinical Trial Optional)
About
The NIH Director's Early Independence Award helps talented new researchers begin their own independent research program soon after finishing their doctoral degree or clinical training, without first doing postdoctoral training. The award accepts applications on any topic fitting the NIH mission. It is part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research program.
The NIH Director's Early Independence Award (DP5 Clinical Trial Optional) is designed for exceptionally talented early-career researchers who are ready to launch independent research programs immediately after completing their doctoral degree or clinical training. This prestigious award eliminates the traditional requirement for postdoctoral training, allowing promising scientists to establish their own labs and research agendas sooner. Researchers can propose projects on any topic that aligns with the NIH mission, making this an ideal opportunity for innovative thinkers across biomedical and behavioral sciences. As part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research program, this award supports groundbreaking research with significant potential impact. The $350,000 in funding provides essential support for launching independent research programs, acquiring equipment, and building research teams. Early-career researchers who demonstrate exceptional promise and innovative research ideas should consider applying. This award is particularly valuable for those who have identified a unique research direction and are prepared to take intellectual leadership of their own research program. The opportunity to skip the postdoctoral phase and establish independence earlier can accelerate scientific careers and bring fresh perspectives to NIH-relevant research areas.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
September 10, 2026
Award Amount
$350K - $350K
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
$350K - $350K
Deadline
2026-09-10
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual
Best For
Early-career researchers transitioning to independent research programs after doctoral or clinical training
Eligibility
Refer to Section III. Eligibility Information in the NOFO for additional information on eligibility.Foreign Organizations/International Collaborations:Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Organizations) are not eligible to apply.Non-domestic (non-U.S.) components of U.S. Organizations are not eligible to apply.Foreign components, as defined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement, are allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for NIH Director's Early Independence Award (DP5 Clinical Trial Optional)?
Applicants must be talented new researchers ready to begin independent research programs soon after completing their doctoral degree or clinical training. U.S. domestic entities are eligible to apply. Non-domestic (non-U.S.) organizations and non-domestic components of U.S. organizations are not eligible, though foreign components of U.S. organizations may be included. For complete eligibility requirements, including specific career stage criteria and institutional requirements, refer to Section III. Eligibility Information in the official Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) on the NIH website.
How much funding does NIH Director's Early Independence Award (DP5 Clinical Trial Optional) provide?
This award provides $350,000 in total project funding. Note that funding amounts may vary by award cycle, so applicants should verify current funding levels by consulting the most recent NOFO on the NIH grants website.
How do I apply for NIH Director's Early Independence Award (DP5 Clinical Trial Optional)?
Applications are submitted through the NIH electronic submission system (eRA Commons) using the approved application format outlined in the NOFO. The deadline for the next cycle is September 10, 2026. Applicants should carefully review the complete NOFO for all submission requirements, formatting guidelines, and evaluation criteria. Detailed instructions and the official NOFO are available on the NIH Division of Program Coordination, Planning, and Strategic Initiatives (DPCPSI) website and the NIH grants portal.
What can NIH Director's Early Independence Award (DP5 Clinical Trial Optional) funding be used for?
Funding supports the establishment of independent research programs and can be used for research activities aligned with the NIH mission across any scientific topic area. The 'Clinical Trial Optional' designation indicates that applicants can propose research with or without a clinical trial component. Typical uses include research personnel salaries, equipment, supplies, and other direct costs necessary to conduct the proposed research. Specific allowable costs and budget limitations should be confirmed in the official NOFO.
Last updated: July 5, 2026