Limited Competition: National Primate Research Centers (P51) (Clinical Trials Not Allowed)

The Limited Competition: National Primate Research Centers (P51) funding opportunity is administered by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically through the Division of Program Coordination, Planning and Strategic Initiatives, Office of Research Infrastructure Programs (ORIP) and the National Institute on Aging (NIA). The purpose of this program is to provide support for the National Primate Research Centers (NPRCs), which are specialized facilities that supply nonhuman primates (NHPs) and related expertise for biomedical research. Given the close physiological and genetic relationship between NHPs and humans, these centers enable critical research on human biology and disease that cannot be effectively conducted with other animal models. The NPRC program aims to advance biomedical knowledge by offering centralized resources such as breeding colonies, specialized equipment, and scientific expertise. The program supports a broad range of activities, including the development and maintenance of NHP colonies, research into NHP biology, breeding practices, and animal welfare. NPRCs also contribute to the scientific community by providing opportunities for collaborative research, education, and outreach. This funding opportunity is limited to existing NPRCs previously funded under PAR-17-144 or PAR-20-181, ensuring continuity and sustained excellence in the provision of these national resources. Applications must adhere to the multi-project format as specified in the SF424 (R&R) Application Guide. Required components of the application include detailed descriptions of governance and administrative structures, colony management, animal resources, core services, outreach activities, and participation in the NPRC Consortium. A key element of the program is the Pilot Research Program, which supports at least one new pilot project annually to foster innovative NHP-related research and develop future funding opportunities. The application process mandates compliance with numerous federal and NIH-specific requirements, including data management and sharing plans, ethical standards for animal care, and advisory board structures such as the National Scientific Advisory Board (NSAB) and Research Advisory Committee (RAC). Applications are accepted on a recurring basis with multiple annual due dates, including September 25, January 25, and May 25, through at least May 26, 2026. All applications must be submitted via NIH ASSIST or an approved institutional system. Evaluation of proposals will consider the applicant's ability to meet the program's objectives, manage the NHP colonies effectively, and contribute to national research priorities. The maximum project period is five years, and while budgets are not capped, renewal and resubmission applications must adhere to a 5 percent limit on direct cost increases from the last non-competing year. Only existing NPRCs are eligible to apply, and foreign institutions or components are not permitted. For additional guidance, applicants must consult the full FOA (PAR-23-126) and follow all NIH and SF424 (R&R) instructions precisely. Inquiries regarding the application process or program requirements should be directed to the appropriate NIH contacts listed within the full announcement. Adherence to application deadlines and format requirements is crucial to ensure consideration for funding under this program.