NEI Clinical Research Study Planning Grant Program
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Maximum funding amount: $150,000 per year
Maximum project duration: 2 years
To support planning efforts for large-scale clinical vision research projects.
Focus on developing study protocols and manuals of procedures.
Researchers in the field of vision science.
Organizations conducting clinical trials and epidemiologic studies.
Eligible organization types include higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, local and state governments, and tribal governments.
Nonprofits with and without 501(c)(3) IRS status are eligible.
Eligible organizations can be based in the U.S. or be foreign organizations.
Non-domestic components of U.S. organizations are also eligible.
Projects must focus on planning activities for clinical vision research.
Grants cannot be used to generate data on the effects of proposed interventions.
Direct costs up to $150,000 per year are permitted.
No cost-sharing is required.
Application deadline: January 7, 2028.
Applications must be submitted electronically.
Applicants may submit more than one application as long as each is scientifically distinct.
Duplicate applications will not be accepted.
Applications must follow the instructions in the Research (R) Instructions in the How to Apply - Application Guide.
Applications will be evaluated based on scientific and technical merit.
Applications will undergo peer review and will be assessed for responsiveness to the funding opportunity.
Scientific merit and relevance to program priorities will be key factors in selection.
The grant does not allow for clinical trials or collection of preclinical data.
Applicants must ensure compliance with all application instructions to avoid delays.
Collaboration with community partners and relevant policymakers is encouraged.
Strong proposals that demonstrate feasibility and innovative approaches will have a competitive edge.
Clear articulation of study rationale and design is essential.
Avoid submitting overlapping applications.
Engage with NIH staff early to discuss programmatic priorities.
Highlight innovative elements in the proposed research design.