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2026
Embedding Replication and Reproducibility Throughout NIH Research: Key Reminders for Applications, Awards, and a New Highlighted Topic
The reliability of biomedical research is foundational to public trust in science and to ensuring that findings can benefit patients and communities. NIH’s Gold Standard Science plan advances this commitment by encouraging a culture that values replication and reproducibility. In support of this plan, NIH has launched a new Replication and Reproducibility Initiative to drive, incentivize and institutionalize replication and reproducibility efforts across the biomedical research enterprise.
So, I’m Interested in a Highlighted Topic…What Do I Do Now?
In short, Highlighted Topics are a way to understand NIH priorities and start a conversation. it is important to note though that NIH Institutes, Centers, and Offices (ICOs) continue to fund a wide range of high-quality research beyond areas identified as a Highlighted Topic.
NIH’s Path to a Simpler Funding Opportunity Landscape
NIH is streamlining the landscape for Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs, or funding opportunities) and the application process. We are placing greater emphasis on investigator-initiated science rather than asking researchers to align their work with highly specific funding opportunities.
Highlighted Topics Spotlight: Cancer Research
Have you explored the NIH Highlighted Topics recently? If not, now is a great time to take a look and learn more about this centralized list of selected research priority areas within the NIH Institutes, Centers, and Offices (ICOs).
2025
What Are the Differences Between Highlighted Topics and Funding Opportunities?
Applicants, take advantage of this overview to learn how NIH Highlighted Topics differ from Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs). There are significant distinctions that you should understand when planning a project for your next application.
Highlighted Topics Resource Round-Up
Last month, we launched the new NIH Highlighted Topics resource. Several new topics have been posted since then, plus additional resources and modifications.
Introducing Highlighted Topics: A Centralized and Simple Resource to Learn About Research Areas of Interest to NIH
We are excited to announce a new centralized and simplified web resource that informs the research community about particular areas of science of interest to NIH. Visiting this resource early and often when conceptualizing your research ideas will help ensure you are aware of some of NIH’s latest scientific interests.