The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) invites applications for the Imaging - Science Track Award for Research Transition (I/START) program.

This program aims to facilitate the entry of investigators into the field of neuroimaging, particularly for newly independent investigators and established investigators seeking to adopt neuroimaging methodologies.

The R03 grant is designed to support short-term research projects with limited resources, focusing on "proof of concept" studies.

Scope of Work

The I/START program encourages research projects that utilize brain imaging tools and methods to advance our understanding of central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction in the context of substance use and substance use disorder (SUD). The research should have the potential to significantly expand our understanding of SUD and addiction.

Areas of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Design and synthesis of novel chemical tools for imaging studies

• Optimization of imaging tools for target affinity, selectivity, and brain penetration

• Development of novel methods for imaging at molecular, cellular, and tissue levels

• Application of imaging tools to identify molecular targets and mechanisms relevant to SUD

• Application of imaging techniques to study the neurobiology of addiction and assess structural, functional, or biochemical alterations due to substance use

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include Higher Education Institutions, Nonprofits, For-Profit Organizations, Local Governments, State Governments, Federal Government, U.S. Territory or Possession, and Foreign Organizations. Applicant organizations must complete and maintain registrations in System for Award Management (SAM), NATO Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) Code (if applicable), eRA Commons, and Grants.gov.

Any individual with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources can serve as the Program Director/Principal Investigator (PD/PI). Individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Budget and Duration

Applicants may request direct costs of up to $150,000 for a period of one year only. The maximum project period is 1 year.

Additional Information

The number of awards is contingent upon NIH appropriations and the submission of a sufficient number of meritorious applications. Applicant organizations may submit more than one application, provided that each application is scientifically distinct.

Key Dates

Posted Date: September 17, 2024

Open Date (Earliest Submission Date): January 16, 2025

Expiration Date: January 08, 2028

For More funding Opportunities, Visit Global Funding Opportunities.