Investigator Grants 2027 supports the research program of high-performing investigators at all career stages through consolidated funding for salary (if required) and a significant research support package (RSP).

Overview

The Investigator Grant Chief Investigator (CIA) maintains the flexibility to pursue important new research directions as they arise, adjust resources accordingly, and form collaborations as needed, rather than being restricted to the scope of a specific research project. Funding for this program is provided from the NHMRC Medical Research Endowment Account (MREA), which is underpinned by section 51 of the NHMRC Act.

The objectives of the Investigator Grant include:

• Supporting the research program of the highest-performing investigators at all career stages.
• Consolidating salary and research support into a single grant scheme by offering a salary component (if required) and an RSP.

The intended outcomes of the Investigator Grant are:

• Providing flexibility for investigators to pursue important new research directions as they arise and to form collaborations as needed.
• Fostering innovative and creative research.
• Creating opportunities for researchers at all career stages to establish their own research programs.
• Reducing the application and peer review burden on researchers.

Funding and Benefits

The total amount available for this program is $440,000,000.00 AUD.

Eligibility

Applications are accepted only from NHMRC-approved Administering Institutions. Applicants must satisfy all the requirements set out in the Investigator Grants 2027 Guidelines.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted electronically using NHMRC’s online grants management system (Sapphire) unless otherwise advised by NHMRC.

Deadline and Timeline

Close Date & Time: 29-Jul-2026 5:00 pm (ACT Local Time)

Minimum data due by: 5:00pm ACT local time, Wednesday 1 July 2026.

Contact Information

For inquiries, applicants may contact the NHMRC Research Help Centre:

• Phone: 1800 500 983
• Email Address: help@nhmrc.gov.au
• Web Address: https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/funding/find-funding/investigator-grants