NINDS Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) for Training of Postdoctoral Fellows (F32 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
Supporting postdoctoral training through a goal-directed, bold, and impactful research projects with a focus on strong quantitative reasoning and experimental design principles.
Funder: National Institutes of Health
Due Dates: June 9, 2025 (Renewal/Resubmission/Revision) | September 7, 2025 (AIDS) | October 9, 2025 (New) | January 7, 2026 (AIDS) | February 9, 2026 (Renewal/Resubmission/Revision) | June 9, 2026 (New) | September 7, 2026 (AIDS) | October 9, 2026 (Renewal/Resubmission/Revision) | January 7, 2027 (AIDS) | February 9, 2027 (New) | June 9, 2027 (Renewal/Resubmission/Revision) | September 7, 2027 (AIDS) | October 8, 2027 (Renewal/Resubmission/Revision) | January 7, 2028 (AIDS)
Funding Amounts: Up to 3 years of postdoctoral support; includes stipend, tuition/fees, and institutional allowance (levels set annually by NIH).
Summary: Supports early postdoctoral training in neuroscience with a focus on rigorous, innovative research and strong quantitative skills; clinical trials not allowed.
Key Information: Applicants must apply within 12 months of starting (or up to 18 months for resubmissions) in the postdoc lab; preliminary data is discouraged.
Description
This opportunity supports highly promising postdoctoral researchers in neuroscience and related fields through mentored training under experienced faculty sponsors. The program is designed to foster early, goal-directed planning and encourages bold, innovative research projects that emphasize strong quantitative reasoning and experimental design. The fellowship aims to accelerate the development of independent research careers by integrating rigorous scientific training with a comprehensive mentorship plan.
The award is specifically intended for postdocs in the early stages of their training in a new laboratory or research environment. Projects may span basic, translational, or clinical neuroscience (but not independent clinical trials). The program discourages the inclusion of preliminary data, instead prioritizing creative research ideas and thoughtful training plans.
