Opportunities for Collaborative Research at the NIH Clinical Center (U01 Clinical Trial Optional)
About
The goal of this program is to support collaborative translational research projects aligned with NIH efforts to enhance the translation of basic biological discoveries into clinical applications that improve health. It encourages high quality science demonstrating the potential to result in understanding an important disease process or lead to new therapeutic interventions, diagnostics, or prevention strategies within the research interests and priorities of the participating NIH Institutes/Centers (ICs). Specifically, the program seeks to broaden and strengthen translational research collaborations between basic and clinical researchers both within and outside NIH to accelerate and enhance translational science by promoting partnerships between NIH intramural investigators (e. g., those conducting research within the labs and clinics of the NIH) and extramural investigators (e. g., those conducting research in labs outside the NIH), and by providing support for extramural investigators to take advantage of the unique research opportunities available at the NIH Clinical Center by conducting clinical research projects in collaboration with NIH intramural investigators.
The Opportunities for Collaborative Research at the NIH Clinical Center (U01 Clinical Trial Optional) grant program supports translational research projects that bridge the gap between basic biological discoveries and clinical applications. This program is ideal for research institutions, academic medical centers, and independent researchers who want to leverage the unique resources and expertise available at the NIH Clinical Center. The grant encourages partnerships between NIH intramural investigators (those working within NIH labs and clinics) and extramural investigators (those at external institutions). Applicants can receive funding ranging up to $500,000 to conduct collaborative clinical research projects that address important disease processes or develop new therapeutic interventions, diagnostics, or prevention strategies. This program is particularly valuable for researchers seeking to accelerate translational science by combining internal NIH expertise with external research capabilities. Both domestic and international organizations are eligible to apply, including non-U.S. entities and foreign components of U.S. organizations. If your research aligns with the priorities of participating NIH Institutes and Centers and demonstrates potential for meaningful clinical impact, this grant can provide substantial support for advancing your translational research agenda.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
March 6, 2027
Award Amount
Up to $500K
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
Up to $500K
Deadline
2027-03-06
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual
Best For
Academic institutions, research organizations, and independent researchers conducting translational research with NIH Clinical Center collaboration
Eligibility
Refer to Section III. Eligibility Information in the NOFO for additional information on eligibility. Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Organizations) are eligible to apply.Non-domestic (non-U.S.) components of U.S. Organizations are eligible to apply.Foreign components, as defined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement, are allowed.NIH will no longer issue awards (i.e., new, renewal, or non-co
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Opportunities for Collaborative Research at the NIH Clinical Center (U01 Clinical Trial Optional)?
Eligibility includes domestic U.S. organizations and non-domestic entities. Non-U.S. organizations, non-domestic components of U.S. organizations, and foreign components as defined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement are all eligible to apply. Research must involve collaboration between NIH intramural investigators and extramural investigators. For complete eligibility requirements, refer to Section III of the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) on the official NIH website.
How much funding does Opportunities for Collaborative Research at the NIH Clinical Center (U01 Clinical Trial Optional) provide?
Funding ranges from N/A to $500,000 per award. The specific amount awarded may vary based on the scope and nature of the proposed collaborative research project. Contact the relevant NIH Institute or Center managing the grant for details on funding levels for your specific research area.
How do I apply for Opportunities for Collaborative Research at the NIH Clinical Center (U01 Clinical Trial Optional)?
Applications are submitted through the NIH grants portal. You will need to prepare a detailed research proposal that clearly describes the collaborative nature of your project and demonstrates how partnership with NIH intramural investigators will advance translational science. Visit the official NIH NOFO page for this grant program to access application instructions, required forms, and submission deadlines. The next deadline is March 6, 2027.
What can Opportunities for Collaborative Research at the NIH Clinical Center (U01 Clinical Trial Optional) funding be used for?
Funding supports translational research projects that translate basic biological discoveries into clinical applications. This includes research aimed at understanding important disease processes, developing new therapeutic interventions, creating diagnostic tools, and establishing prevention strategies. Projects must align with the research interests and priorities of participating NIH Institutes and Centers and involve meaningful collaboration between NIH intramural and extramural researchers.
Last updated: July 5, 2026