Early Independence Award (DP5)

To support the independent research project of a recent doctoral degree recipient. This research grant program will encourage exceptionally creative scientists to bypass the typical post-doc research training period in order to move rapidly to research independence. It will encourage institutions to develop independent career tracks for recent graduates in order to demonstrate the benefits of early transition to independence both in terms of career productivity for the candidate and research capability for the institution.

Special Considerations

Organization Eligibility

  • Eligibility: U.S. domestic institutions

Carefully read the Eligibility section of the funding opportunity for opportunity-specific organization eligibility requirements.

Project Director/ Principal Investigator (PD/PI) Eligibility

  • Career Stage: Predoctoral, Postdoctorate/Residency

Within 12 months preceding, or completing, doctoral degree or medical residency.

Carefully read the Eligibility section of the funding opportunity for opportunity-specific PD/PI eligibility requirements.

Award Information

  • Funding Instrument: Grant
  • Funding Category: Research Training and Career Development
  • Budget Mechanism Code: RP - Research Projects

Application and Submission Information

  • Reference Letters: Required (min 3 , max 5)

After identifying a funding opportunity, follow guidance in the How to Apply – Application Guide including any Research (R) instruction call-outs, except where instructed to do otherwise in the funding opportunity or related notices.

Early Independence Award (DP5)
Active Funding Opportunities
The NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts is NIH's official publication of notices of grant policies, guidelines, and funding opportunities.
Search Now

Due Dates

The Key Dates section of funding opportunities lists specific due dates. Many opportunities indicate Standard Due Dates apply.

Standard Application Due Dates (when applicable) Review and Award Cycles
New Renewal, Resubmission,
Revision as Allowed
AIDS and AIDS Related
Grant Applications
Scientific Merit Review Advisory Council
Review
Earliest Start Date


This page last updated on: December 11, 2024
For technical issues E-mail OER Webmaster