Method to Extend Research in Time (MERIT) Award Extension Request (Type 4 eSubmission Clinical Trial Optional)

Background
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) Method to Extend Research in Time (MERIT) Award provides extended grant support to Early Stage Investigators (ESIs). The goal of the MERIT Award is to offer flexibility and opportunity for creativity and innovation, allowing ESIs additional time to successfully launch their careers before needing to submit renewal applications. The NCI aims to provide up to 7 years of support in two segments for eligible investigators.

Grant Details
The MERIT Award allows currently funded NCI ESI MERIT recipients to request a second phase of their initial award, providing an additional two years of support. The funding opportunity focuses on identifying cancer risks, developing prevention strategies, and improving cancer treatment methods through various research programs including chemical carcinogenesis, screening and early detection, epidemiology, nutrition, immunology, clinical trials, and supportive care. Research proposals must align with the original scope of the NIH-supported grant project.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include organizations administering an active parent award such as higher education institutions (including HBCUs and TCCUs), nonprofits, for-profit organizations, local/state/federal governments, and foreign organizations. Candidates must hold an active NCI-funded R37 grant. The proposed research must be within the original scope of the NIH-supported project.

Period of Performance
The project period is limited to 2 years for the second phase of the MERIT Award.

Grant Value
The total value of the grant is contingent upon NIH appropriations and the submission of meritorious applications. The budget is limited to the committed Direct Costs on the final year of the initial project period.