NIH Abandons Plan to Implement Grant Support Index (GSI) Following Community Feedback; Launches Instead the Next Generation Researchers Initiative (NGRI)

In early June, NIH Director Francis Collins, M.D., Ph.D., announced that NIH will not implement the Grant Support Index (GSI) and will instead launch a program called the Next Generation Researchers Initiative (NGRI). The NGRI will provide increased support for meritorious early-stage and mid-career investigators who either just missed funding for their first competitive renewal or are seeking a second Research Project Grant, with a goal of extending relevant paylines to the 25th percentile. More details on the NGRI are available here.

In response to this announcement, AAI President Arlene H. Sharpe, M.D., Ph.D., said that, “AAI is very pleased that the NIH Next Generation Researchers Initiative will provide increased support for deserving early-stage and mid-career investigators. We look forward to working with NIH to ensure that this new program strikes the right balance between providing this needed support and ensuring that the best scientists, at all career stages, continue to receive ample funding.” AAI welcomes members’ input on the NGRI at NIHNextGen@aai.org.

AAI leaders previously wrote to wrote to Dr. Collins and other key NIH officials expressing support for the goals of the GSI but urging delay of implementation until NIH released all final details and provided adequate time for stakeholder review and input.

AAI Letter to Dr. Collins on the Proposed GSI