Can I Retain Early Stage Investigator Status if an NIH Award is Transferred to Me?

June 22, 2026

Yes, as explained on this FAQ, the definition of early stage investigator (ESI) states that the individual must not have "previously competed successfully" as program director/principal investigator (PD/PI) for a substantial NIH independent research award. Therefore, the individual may still qualify if all other aspects of the ESI definition are met. 

The full ESI definition is:

  • An ESI is a PD/PI who has completed their terminal research degree or end of post-graduate clinical training, whichever date is later, within the past 10 years and who has not previously competed successfully as PD/PI for a substantial NIH independent research award.

Moreover, this other FAQ notes if you were added to a substantial NIH independent research award after the award of the grant you will not lose New Investigator/ESI status.

Please see our other FAQS and our webpage on ESIs to learn more.

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