NIH Director’s Early Independence Awards (DP5 Clinical Trial Optional)
Grant Opportunity Analysis
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is offering the Director's Early Independence Awards (DP5 Clinical Trial Optional), aimed at supporting promising investigators who wish to embark on independent research immediately following their terminal doctoral degree or post-graduate clinical training. This grant allows recipients to bypass traditional post-doctoral training, thereby accelerating their entry into independent research careers across various areas within the biomedical sciences. With an estimated total program funding of $5.7 million, the NIH anticipates awarding approximately 10 grants, each with a funding amount of $350,000. Interested applicants can reach out to the NIH Director's Early Independence Award Program via email at EarlyIndependence@od.nih.gov, with applications due by September 4, 2026, and awards expected to be announced by September 15, 2026.
Eligible Applicants
Other Eligible ApplicantsIndian/Native American Tribal Governments (Other than Federally Recognized);Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government, including the NIH Intramural Program;U.S. Territory or Possession;Faith-based or Community-based Organizations;Regional Organizations;Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Institutions).