Science Track Award for Research Transition (START) Program (R03, Clinical Trial Optional)
About
The purpose of this notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) is to facilitate the entry of investigators into multiple high-priority areas of substance use research, including comorbidity with HIV. The Science Track Award for Research Transition (START) Program aims to provide investigators with the opportunity to gather preliminary data that will assist them in securing future research grants and advancing their scientific careers.
The Science Track Award for Research Transition (START) Program (R03, Clinical Trial Optional) is a federal research grant designed to support investigators entering high-priority areas of substance use research, including studies examining comorbidity with HIV. This program is ideal for early-career researchers and established scientists transitioning into new research areas who need to establish preliminary data to support future grant applications. The START Program provides investigators with dedicated funding and resources to conduct feasibility studies, pilot research, and initial data collection that strengthens their scientific foundation. Researchers can use this award to explore new research directions, test hypotheses, and gather evidence that will enhance their competitiveness for larger, long-term research grants. The program welcomes both domestic and international researchers, supporting non-domestic entities and international collaborations. If you are an investigator seeking to advance your career in substance use research or related fields, the START Program offers a strategic opportunity to develop your research program with federal support. The deadline for applications is March 16, 2029. For comprehensive eligibility requirements and application details, refer to the official Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
March 16, 2029
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Funding Range
Amount varies by cycle; refer to NOFO for details
Deadline
2029-03-16
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual
Best For
Early-career and transitioning investigators in substance use and HIV research
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 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Science Track Award for Research Transition (START) Program (R03, Clinical Trial Optional)?
The START Program supports investigators entering high-priority substance use research areas. Both domestic (U.S.) and non-domestic (international) researchers are eligible, including foreign organizations and non-U.S. components of U.S. organizations. Foreign components as defined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement are allowed. For detailed eligibility criteria, including specific investigator qualifications, institutional requirements, and other restrictions, refer to Section III. Eligibility Information in the official Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).
How much funding does Science Track Award for Research Transition (START) Program (R03, Clinical Trial Optional) provide?
Specific funding amounts are not provided in the current announcement. Award amounts may vary depending on the application cycle and research proposal scope. Visit the official NIH website or NOFO for current information on funding ranges and budget guidelines for this grant cycle.
How do I apply for Science Track Award for Research Transition (START) Program (R03, Clinical Trial Optional)?
To apply, review the complete Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for submission requirements, formatting guidelines, and program-specific instructions. Applications must be submitted through the official NIH electronic submission system by the deadline of March 16, 2029. Contact the program officer listed in the NOFO for questions about eligibility or application procedures. Visit the official NIH funding opportunity page for links to submission portals and detailed application instructions.
What can Science Track Award for Research Transition (START) Program (R03, Clinical Trial Optional) funding be used for?
Funding supports research activities related to substance use research, including investigations into comorbidity with HIV. The grant is specifically designed to help investigators gather preliminary data, conduct feasibility studies, and establish foundational evidence to support future larger research grants. The R03 mechanism emphasizes smaller-scale, short-term research projects. Clinical trials are optional components of this program. Consult the official NOFO for detailed allowable costs and use restrictions.
Last updated: July 5, 2026