The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is committed to fostering talent and maintaining a strong scientific workforce. Recognizing that talented individuals may step away from their research careers for various reasons, such as family responsibilities, the NIH offers Research Supplements to Promote Re-Entry into Biomedical and Behavioral Research Careers. This program is designed to provide a pathway back to research for those with high potential who have experienced career interruptions.
Understanding the NIH Re-Entry Supplement Program
This initiative, spearheaded by the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH) and various NIH Institutes and Centers (ICs), provides administrative supplements to existing NIH research grants. These supplements support individuals re-entering the biomedical and behavioral research fields after a break due to family responsibilities or other valid circumstances. The core objective is to facilitate the re-entry of these scientists into active research careers aligned with the diverse program areas of the NIH.
The program operates by supplementing ongoing NIH research grants, enabling re-entry candidates to engage in research—full-time or part-time—to refresh their skills and knowledge. This hands-on experience is crucial for updating their expertise and contributing meaningfully to the original research project. It’s expected that upon completing the supplement, the re-entry scientist will be well-prepared to compete for career development (K) awards, research project (R) grants, or other independent research funding opportunities.
Who is Eligible for the Re-Entry Supplement?
The NIH Re-entry Supplement program is tailored for both women and men who have experienced significant interruptions in their research careers. Ideal candidates are those who:
- Hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D., M.D., D.D.S., O.D., D.V.M., or equivalent).
- Were previously engaged in postdoctoral or faculty positions before their career break.
- Are committed to pursuing or returning to a research career in biomedical, behavioral, clinical, or social sciences.
- Are United States citizens, non-citizen nationals, or lawfully admitted permanent residents.
It’s important to note that individuals already in the process of re-entry through fellowships or traineeships are generally not eligible for this supplement program.
Qualifying Career Interruption and Program Details
A qualifying career interruption typically spans between one and eight years. Acceptable reasons for interruption can include:
- Child rearing responsibilities.
- Personal or family member’s incapacitating illness or injury.
- Relocation due to spouse/partner’s job or family needs.
- Military service.
The program is specifically designed to support individuals returning to research, not for those seeking initial research training or career changes from non-research fields. Preference is often given to candidates with a complete break from research activities.
The supplement provides salary support and may also cover up to $10,000 for essential research-related expenses like supplies, domestic travel, and publication costs. Equipment purchases are generally not allowed without explicit prior approval from the NIH.
Application Process and Key Considerations
Applying for a Re-entry Supplement involves several key steps and considerations:
- Eligibility Check: Ensure both the candidate and the parent grant meet the eligibility criteria. The parent award must be active, and the proposed research must fall within its original scope.
- Contact NIH Program Official: Prospective applicants are strongly advised to contact the program official of the NIH awarding component supporting the parent grant. This consultation is crucial to discuss the candidate’s specific situation and the program’s suitability.
- Application Submission: Applications are submitted as administrative supplements to the parent grant. The process can be electronic or paper-based, depending on the activity code of the parent grant. Detailed submission instructions are available in the SF424 (R&R) Application Guide and eRA Commons.
- Required Documents: Key application components include:
- Research Plan: Outlining the re-entry research experience and its integration with the parent grant.
- Candidate’s Biographical Sketch: Detailing research objectives, prior experience, career hiatus details, and re-entry preparation efforts.
- Eligibility Statement: A signed statement confirming the candidate’s eligibility.
- Budget: Specifically for supplement activities.
- Other Attachments: IACUC/IRB approvals if applicable.
Maximizing Your Re-Entry Success
The NIH Re-entry Supplement is more than just funding; it’s a structured pathway to revitalize your research career. To make the most of this opportunity:
- Develop a Robust Research Plan: Align your re-entry research with the parent grant while carving out a niche that allows you to update your skills and contribute uniquely.
- Seek Strong Mentorship: The parent grant’s PD/PI will serve as your mentor, guiding your research and career development. Choose a mentor invested in your re-entry and future independence.
- Network and Engage: Actively participate in research activities, attend conferences, and engage with the scientific community to rebuild your professional network and stay updated on field advancements.
- Plan for the Future: Utilize the supplement period to prepare for your next career step, whether it’s a K award, an R grant, or another research-focused position.
Conclusion
The NIH Research Supplements to Promote Re-Entry into Biomedical and Behavioral Research Careers offers a crucial lifeline for researchers seeking to return to their scientific passions after a career break. By providing targeted support and opportunities for skill enhancement, the NIH program not only strengthens the scientific workforce but also enriches the diversity of perspectives within the research community. For those looking to reignite their research careers, exploring the NIH Re-entry Supplement program is a significant step towards a successful return.
For detailed information, eligibility requirements, and application guidelines, please refer to the official NIH Funding Opportunity Announcement PA-18-592 and the NIH Grants Policy Statement.
