National K12 Program for the Career Development of Clinician-Scientists in Diabetes Research (Diabetes-DOCS)

The NIDDK seeks to advance its mission by funding a program to support the career development of physicians committed to a career in diabetes research. The program is intended to remedy the dearth of pediatric endocrinologists and physicians from other specialties conducting innovative research into the causes and consequences of diabetes. Although there will be one national administrative center awardee, scholars are expected to be appointed and supported at their home institutions around the country. The program will have a focus on Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) research, with the major funding from the Statutory Special Diabetes Program https://www.niddk.nih.gov/about-niddk/research-areas/diabetes/type-1-diabetes-special-statutory-funding-program/about-special-diabetes-program. Starting in the second year, the program may add additional funds if available to support the career development of physicians whose research focuses on innovative projects in type 2 diabetes. The program is expected to deliver on goals to increase the number of physician scientists with independent research careers in the mission of NIDDK https://www.niddk.nih.gov/research-funding/research-programs#diabetes.

This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) does not allow Scholars to serve as the lead investigator of an independent clinical trial. However, Scholars may engage in clinical trials as part of their research and career development if those trials are led by an experienced mentor. For example, Scholars may propose a separate ancillary study to an ongoing clinical trial; or propose a new trial which is led by a collaborator or mentor. 

Grant authorities that allow NIDDK to forecast this opportunity are as follows: Awards are made under the authorization of Sections 301 and 405 of the Public Health Service Act as amended (42 USC 241 and 284) and under Federal Regulations 42 CFR Part 52 and 2 CFR Part 200.

This NOFO is supported under the authority of P.L. 118-158, American Relief Act, 2025; Division C, Section 3102. Extension of special diabetes programs.