Research Enhancement Awards (R15)
The NIH R15 program funds small-scale research at institutions with limited NIH support, enhancing faculty research capacity, engaging students in research, and strengthening institutional research environments.
Program Variants:
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AREA (Academic Research Enhancement Award): For undergraduate-focused colleges and universities.
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REAP (Research Enhancement Award Program): For health professional schools and graduate institutions.
Eligibility Criteria
Institutional:
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U.S.-based accredited public or nonprofit private schools.
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AREA: Non–health professional component grants baccalaureate degrees; combined NIH support ≤$6 M/year (4 of last 7 years).
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REAP: Health professional or graduate school grants baccalaureate or advanced degrees; combined NIH support ≤$6 M/year (4 of last 7 years).
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Separate UEI and NIH IPF per campus if multi-campus.
Investigator (PD/PI):
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Primary appointment at the eligible institution.
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Not PI on an active NIH research grant (S10, R13, T32, etc. exempt).
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May hold one R15 at a time; collaborators unrestricted.
Funding Details:
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Instrument: Grant (RP – Research Projects)
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Project Period: Up to 3 years (renewable via competing continuation)
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Budget:
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Use Modular Budget if direct costs ≤$250 k over project.
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Use R&R Budget if direct costs $250 k–$375 k.
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Multi-year Funded: Yes
Goals:
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Support meritorious research projects.
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Expose undergraduate/graduate students to hands-on research.
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Strengthen institutional research infrastructure.
Application & Deadlines:
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Due Dates (by 5:00 PM local time):
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New & Resubmissions: Feb 25, Jun 25, Oct 25
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Required Attachments:
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Provost’s letter certifying institutional eligibility
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R15-specific biosketch personal statements
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Facilities & Other Resources description
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Submission: Grants.gov → eRA Commons
Resources & Contacts:
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Program Overview & FAQ: NIH R15 website
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Eligibility Decision Tree: R15 Eligibility PDF
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Data & Success Rates: NIH RePORT R15 metrics
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Webinar: “What You Need to Know” R15 session (June 2023)
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Scientific Queries: See IC-specific contacts in NOFO
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Administrative Help: Your institution’s sponsored programs office
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