Notice of Intent to Publish a Funding Opportunity Announcement for Stephen I. Katz Early Stage Investigator Research Project Grant (R01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has issued a forecasted Notice of Intent to Publish a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for the Stephen I. Katz Early Stage Investigator Research Project Grant (R01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed). This program aims to support early stage investigators (ESIs) who are interested in initiating a research project in an area distinct from their previous training and experience. The grant opportunity is expected to open on July 26, 2025, with applications due by September 26, 2025. The estimated award and project start date is July 1, 2026. The Katz R01 grant is tailored for ESIs proposing innovative projects that do not extend their past research but rather pivot to a novel direction. Acceptable shifts in research could include changes in methodology, disciplinary focus, therapeutic targets, or conceptual frameworks. The proposal must align with the scientific missions of one or more NIH Institutes and Centers. Projects may build on a principal investigator’s past expertise but must reflect a substantive departure from their earlier work. Preliminary data is not required, emphasizing the program's support for bold new research paths. Multiple Principal Investigators (MPIs) are permitted, provided all are ESIs and the proposed research represents a change in direction for each investigator. NIH highly encourages applicants to consult with a program director to validate alignment and eligibility before submitting a proposal. The program supports research across a wide spectrum of health-related fields, as evidenced by the extensive list of applicable Assistance Listings, which include studies on cardiovascular, lung, cancer, diabetes, mental health, infectious diseases, and more. Eligible applicants for this grant include a broad range of entities such as state governments, county and city governments, Native American tribal organizations and governments, public housing authorities, nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, public and private institutions of higher education, small and for-profit businesses, and independent school districts. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement. Application materials are expected to be announced through a formal FOA on or around July 26, 2025. Contact information for inquiries includes the Division of Biomedical Research Workforce, Office of the Director at NIH's Office of Extramural Research. They can be reached at 301-496-0180 or via email at nihtrain@mail.nih.gov.