DoW Reconstructive Transplant, Investigator-Initiated Research Award

Background
The fiscal year 2026 (FY26) Reconstructive Transplant Research Program (RTRP) Investigator-Initiated Research Award supports studies that have the potential to make significant contributions to reconstructive transplant research, patient care, and quality of life.

The program is managed by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) within the Defense Health Agency, which aims to refine approaches for and increase access to reconstructive transplants and state-of-the-art immunotherapy.

The RTRP was initiated by Congress in 2012 and has a total appropriation of $12 million for FY26.

Grant Details
The Investigator-Initiated Research Award supports studies across all phases of research from basic through translational, including preclinical studies in animal models and clinical research involving human subjects or anatomical substances.

Key elements include:
- A rigorous study design that supports reproducibility and feasibility, including a strong statistical plan with power analysis.
- Projects must demonstrate potential long-term impacts on the reconstructive transplant field or patient community and address at least one FY26 RTRP Focus Area.
- Inclusion of preliminary data relevant to reconstructive transplantation is mandatory.
- All projects must be responsive to the healthcare needs of military Service Members, Veterans, their families, caregivers, or clinicians. Collaboration with military researchers is encouraged but not required.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include extramural and intramural U.S. Department of War organizations, both foreign and domestic, for-profit and nonprofit organizations, as well as public or private entities. Independent investigators at all career levels affiliated with eligible organizations can serve as Principal Investigators (PIs). An investigator may be named on only two FY26 RTRP applications as PI.

Period of Performance
The maximum period of performance for awarded projects is three years.

Grant Value
The CDMRP expects to allocate approximately $8 million to fund around eight Investigator-Initiated Research Award applications, with a total cost cap of $1 million per award.