Investigator-Focused Award (R35)

To support the research program of an investigator within the mission of a single NIH Institute or Center (IC), the Investigator-Focused Award provides the flexibility to change research directions as long as the work remains within the mission of the awarding IC.

The R35 supports an investigator's overall research program rather than discrete research projects with pre-defined specific aims. An award is typically meant to serve as the primary (or sole) source of support from the awarding institute or center (IC).  As a result, the awarding IC may limit the ability of an R35 investigator to serve as PD/PI on other research awards concurrently.

By supporting an investigator’s research program, the R35 is intended to:

  • Provide stable, sufficient support for a robust research program.
  • Support long-term research planning (some ICs allow for project periods up to 7 years). 
  • Enable investigators to pursue ambitious scientific questions and leverage novel approaches.
  • Provide flexibility to follow promising research directions as they emerge.
  • Reduce administrative burden associated with preparing and managing multiple research awards.
  • Enable investigators to devote substantive time to research, mentoring, and scientific service.
  • Support independent investigators to apply at different career stages to establish or sustain an impactful research program.

IC priorities and implementation of the Investigator-Focused Research Award (R35) program may vary.

Award Information

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

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		 Scientific Merit Review Advisory Council
Review		 Earliest Start Date

Participating Funding Organizations

Each funding opportunity specifies the participating organizations. Applications must fit within the mission of at least one participating funding organization and meet all opportunity-specific requirements.

The following funding organizations participate on at least one active funding opportunity.

  • National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
  • National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)

Resources

Institute and Center R35 Program Pages

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