2007 NIH Director’s Pioneer Award—Call for Applications

The NIH Director’s Pioneer Award supports exceptionally creative scientists in a wide range of fields who propose highly innovative—and potentially transformative—approaches to major challenges in biomedical research.

In September 2007, NIH expects to make 5 to 10 new Pioneer Awards of $500,000 in direct costs per year for 5 years.

The program is open to scientists at all career levels and in any field of research, provided they are interested in exploring biomedically relevant topics. NIH particularly encourages applications from women, members of groups that are underrepresented in biomedical research, and individuals in the early to middle stages of their careers.

The streamlined, electronic application process includes a 3- to 5-page essay and 3 letters of reference. The application period opens on December 1, 2006, and closes on January 16, 2007. There is also a registration process, which NIH recommends starting at least 4 weeks before submitting an application.

Detailed instructions can be found at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-RM-07-005.html. For more information, see the Pioneer Award Web site at http://nihroadmap.nih.gov/pioneer or send questions to pioneer@nih.gov.