Joint NINDS/NIMH Exploratory Neuroscience Research Grant (R21 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The Joint NINDS/NIMH Exploratory Neuroscience Research Grant is a federally funded initiative led by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically through the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). The program, formally known under the R21 Activity Code, is designed to support exploratory and innovative research within the neuroscience domain. With its reissue under PA-25-150, the program reflects an evolving alignment with NIH strategic goals and continues the legacy of fostering foundational science that may not yet be substantiated by extensive preliminary data. The grant supports early and conceptual stage projects aimed at exploring novel hypotheses, methodologies, or experimental systems with potential for significant impact on neuroscience research. These include high-risk studies that may lead to breakthroughs in understanding neurological and mental health conditions or that could result in the development of new research tools, reagents, and models. While the program does not allow for clinical trials, it is positioned to fund investigations that could eventually feed into more applied or translational research streams. Applications are expected to align with the scientific missions of NINDS and NIMH. For NINDS, proposals must address topics relevant to neurological disorders and stroke, while the NIMH supports those fitting within its neuroscience priorities, including HIV-related research as outlined in the NIH Strategic Plan for HIV. Applicants are strongly encouraged to consult with program staff from the relevant institute prior to submission, particularly if human subjects are involved, to confirm the alignment with program goals and to determine the appropriate funding opportunity. Funding for this program is capped at $275,000 in direct costs over a two-year period, with a limit of $200,000 in any single year. The number of awards issued will depend on the NIH budget appropriations and the volume and merit of received applications. No cost-sharing or matching requirements are imposed under this funding opportunity. Eligibility is broad and includes a wide range of domestic and foreign organizations, such as higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profits (including small businesses), local and tribal governments, and foreign entities or their components. Required registrations include SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, and related systems. The application process follows NIH's standard submission mechanisms and mandates adherence to both general NIH instructions and program-specific guidance. Applicants must submit using platforms such as NIH ASSIST, Grants.gov Workspace, or approved institutional systems. Applications are reviewed for scientific merit through peer review and subsequently by the Advisory Council. Reviewers assess importance, innovation, rigor, and feasibility, along with investigator qualifications and resource availability. The funding opportunity operates on NIH's standard due date cycles: February 16, June 16, and October 16 annually for new applications, with parallel windows for renewals and AIDS-related proposals. The current expiration date is set for May 8, 2026, per Notice NOT-NS-26-007. Awards may begin as early as December 2025 for February submissions, with a two-year project duration. While there are no pre-application requirements such as Letters of Intent, applicants are urged to apply early to resolve potential submission errors.

Applicants should consult NINDS or NIMH program staff before submitting to confirm program alignment and avoid submitting to an inappropriate NOFO.