Academic Research Enhancement Awards (R15) stimulate research at educational institutions that provide baccalaureate training for a significant number of the nation's research scientists but that have not been major recipients of NIH support. Awards provide funding for small-scale, new, or ongoing health-related meritorious research projects, enhancing the research environment at eligible institutions and exposing students to research opportunities.

NIGMS supports R15 grants through the notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) "AREA for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions" (PAR-21-155​) , for research in scientific areas related to its mission.

Eligible applicants may request support for up to a total of $300,000 in direct costs (plus applicable indirect costs) for up to 3 years. To be eligible, investigators (1) must have a primary faculty appointment at an AREA-eligible institution, and (2) cannot be the PI of any active NIH research grant at the time of award. PIs are expected to conduct the majority of their research at their own institutions, although limited access to special facilities or equipment at another institution is permitted. PIs may not receive more than one AREA grant at a time.

Prospective applicants should check with their Provost's Office to confirm Organization Eligibility before preparing an application.

For more information, see the Frequently Asked Questions , the Office of Extramural Research R15 webpage , the SF424 Application Guide or the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts for ( PAR-21-155 ), or contact Dr. Anne Gershenson or Dr. Charles Ansong ​.