Limited Competition: Small Grant Program for NIAMS K01, K08, K23, and K25 Recipients (R03) (Clinical Trials Not Allowed)

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) intends to publish a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to solicit applications for a program that provides NIAMS-supported K01, K08, K23, and K25 recipients and recipients of career development awards from organizations that support research in NIAMS' mission areas  the opportunity to apply for Small Grant (R03) support at an appropriate point during the second to fourth year of their K award. This is a limited competition. Through the use of this mechanism, the NIAMS is seeking to enhance the capability of its scientists to conduct research as they complete their transition to fully independent investigator status. Applications are not being solicited at this time. Notice is being provided to allow potential applicants sufficient time to develop meaningful collaborations and responsive projects. This NOFO will utilize the R03 activity code. The R03 grant mechanism supports different types of projects, including pilot and feasibility studies; secondary analysis of existing data; small, self-contained research projects; development of research methodology; and development of new research technology. The R03 is intended to support research projects that can be carried out in a short period of time with limited resources and that provide support, in addition to the career development award, for a subsequent R01, or equivalent, application. Clinical trials of any phase will not be supported by this NOFO. Eligible investigators are encouraged to begin to consider applying for this new NOFO.