Investigator-Initiated Research Award (Multiple Sclerosis Research Program, FY26)
This grant funds rigorous research to advance understanding, diagnosis, or treatment of multiple sclerosis, focusing on key scientific gaps but excluding clinical trials.
Funder: Military Health System Research Program
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2026 (Letter of Intent, Pre-application) | July 2026 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1,000,000 total costs over 3 years per award.
Summary: Supports rigorous, high-impact research to advance understanding or treatment of multiple sclerosis, open to both established and new independent investigators.
Key Information: Clinical trials are not supported; preliminary data are required; projected dates—final details pending official announcement.
Description
This award mechanism supports investigator-initiated, high-impact research projects that address fundamental issues and key gaps in multiple sclerosis (MS) science. The program is designed to accelerate progress toward improved understanding, diagnosis, or treatment of MS, with a focus on clinical relevance. Projects must include preliminary data and cannot propose clinical trials. Both established and new independent investigators are eligible, with a special option available for early-career faculty. Applicants must address at least one of the following focus areas:
- Central nervous system repair, protection, and regenerative potential in MS
- Correlates of disease activity and progression in MS
- Biology and measurement of MS symptoms
- Mechanisms contributing to or associated with MS etiology, prodrome, onset, and disease course
This is a pre-announcement for the anticipated FY26 funding cycle; final requirements will be detailed in the official program announcement.
