
Exploratory/Developmental Grant (R21)
The NIH R21 grant supports early-stage, exploratory research projects that are limited in scope, duration, and budget to foster novel ideas and techniques. Purpose is to encourage the development of new research activities in categorical program areas, particularly high-risk/high-reward projects with no requirement for preliminary data.
Special Considerations:
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Continuous Submission Policy: Eligible for rolling submissions when PD/PIs serve on NIH review panels or advisory boards, enabling timely peer review and council assignment.
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No Preliminary Data Required: Facilitates funding of untested concepts, though data may be included if available.
Award Information:
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Instrument: Grant
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Category: Research and Development
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Mechanism Code: RP – Research Projects
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Project Period: Up to 2 years (unless otherwise specified in FOA)
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Budget Limits:
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Direct costs up to $275,000 total over 2 years
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No more than $200,000 in any single year
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Renewals: Not renewable
Application & Submission:
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Parent FOAs: Use R21 Parent Announcements; verify participating ICs per FOA.
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Research Strategy: ≤ 6 pages (may vary in combined activity notices, e.g., R21/R33).
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Consultation: Applicants should engage NIH Scientific/Research contacts early to confirm R21 appropriateness.
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How to Apply: Follow NIH SF424 (R&R) instructions and the “How to Apply – Application Guide.”
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Submission Portal: Grants.gov → eRA Commons.
Resources & Contacts:
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FOA Lookup: NIH Guide for Grants & Contracts
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Program Staff: See Section VII of the FOA for scientific/research contacts.
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Admin Support: Institutional grants office; NIH eRA Help Desk.
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