Briefing: Mechanism for Time-Sensitive Substance Use Research (R21)

STATUS: EXPIRED (March 11, 2026). Limited case-by-case submissions may be accepted; contact eRA Service Desk.

Research Focus

This R21 Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant supports pilot, feasibility, and exploratory research addressing urgent, time-sensitive needs in substance use epidemiology, prevention, and health services. The program targets six priority areas: (1) sudden spikes in opioid or synthetic cannabinoid use and overdoses in specific communities; (2) emerging drug policy changes at federal, state, or local levels requiring imminent response; (3) unexpected medical system issues affecting addiction services delivery; (4) criminal or juvenile justice system changes related to drug misuse and healthcare access; (5) early implementation of new substance use programs, financing, or payment models; and (6) natural disasters or public health emergencies impacting drug markets and treatment outcomes. Research must demonstrate genuine time-sensitivity—that expedited review and funding are necessary because standard NIH timelines would miss the window to answer the scientific question. The program encourages partnerships between academic researchers and community/public organizations (health departments, poison centers, medical examiners, health systems, justice agencies, schools, child welfare, payers) confronting urgent substance-related crises. Findings should have potential to generalize beyond the local setting.

At-a-Glance

• Who can apply: Higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, state/local/tribal governments, and federal agencies.
• Funding & project length: $275,000 direct costs maximum over 2 years (no more than $200,000 in any single year).
• Award mechanism: R21 grant; clinical trials optional.
• Key dates: Open March 5, 2025; multiple rolling due dates (May, September, January); earliest start May 2025. Program expires March 11, 2026.
• Best fit for: Researchers in addiction medicine, public health, health services, and criminal justice studying urgent policy implementation, emerging drug epidemiology, or system-level changes requiring rapid evidence generation.