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Research Projects (R)

The R-series includes NIH’s most common research grant programs. We offer information on the following programs:

  • R01 is the NIH standard independent research project grant. An R01 is meant to give you four or five years of support to complete a project, publish, and reapply before the grant ends.
  • Small Businesses. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) (R43/R44) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) (R41/R42) programs seek to stimulate technological innovation and increase private-sector commercialization of technologies.”
  • Small and Exploratory/Developmental Research Grants (R03, R21) SOP. These grant types support small-scale research projects and are designed for experienced investigators who want to pursue a new direction in research.
  • Research Enhancement Awards (R15) SOP. REA grants fund some non-research intensive schools that have received limited NIH funding.
  • NIAID R56-Bridge Award SOP. Bridge awards provide one year of funding for high-priority applications that score outside the payline. Investigators cannot apply.
  • MERIT Awards and Extensions (R37) SOP. NIAID gives some investigators with stellar records an award that does not go through peer review.
  • Phased Award SOP. Supports two phases: 1) Phase I for milestone-driven exploratory or feasibility studies with a possible transition to 2) Phase II for expanded development.

Have Questions?

A program officer in your area of science can give you application advice, NIAID's perspective on your research, and confirmation that NIAID will accept your application.

Find contacts and instructions at When to Contact an NIAID Program Officer.

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