Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award Institutional Research Training Grant (NRSA)

The Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award Institutional Research Training Grant, administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration under the Department of Health and Human Services, supports the development of postdoctoral researchers in biomedical, behavioral, and health services research focused on primary care. This grant opportunity is designed for eligible institutions to establish or enhance structured training programs that prepare fellows for careers in primary care research, addressing the growing need for a skilled workforce to tackle complex challenges in an aging and expanding population. The program emphasizes mentorship, individualized development plans, and the cultivation of research leadership skills, with a strong focus on outcomes such as publications, sustained research careers among trainees, and measurable contributions to the field. The award provides funding over a five-year period from September 30, 2026, through June 30, 2031, with an anticipated total program value not specified due to its grant structure rather than a procurement contract. Applicants must submit a comprehensive application through Grants.gov by the July 10, 2026, deadline, adhering to strict formatting rules including 12-point font, single-spacing, and 1-inch margins across all documents, with a combined page limit of 60 pages for all narrative and attachment components. Required materials include organizational charts, staffing plans with detailed job descriptions, letters of support, curriculum vitae of key personnel, evidence of past training success, publications derived from prior training, and institutional commitments to diversity and research capacity. Evaluation is merit-based across six criteria totaling 100 points, prioritizing program alignment, impact, institutional need, performance measurement, resource availability, and budget justification. The selection process operates on a trade-off basis, weighing scientific merit against risk, strategic alignment, and funding priorities. Compliance with federal regulations including 2 CFR Part 200, HHS evaluation policy, and cybersecurity standards is mandatory, and all applicants must be registered in SAM.gov with a Unique Entity Identifier. Conflict of interest disclosures, restrictions on certain social policies, and prohibitions on profit-making from federal awards are strictly enforced. Institutional performance is monitored through quarterly and annual reports, and trainees must be tracked for one year post-program completion to demonstrate long-term career outcomes.