Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Individual Fellowship for Students at Institutions Without NIH-Funded Institutional Predoctoral Dual-Degree Training Programs (Parent F30)

Background
The Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Individual Fellowship (Parent F30) is issued by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) under the Department of Health and Human Services. This funding opportunity aims to support students at institutions that do not have NIH-funded institutional predoctoral dual-degree training programs.

The fellowship is designed to enhance the integrated research and clinical training of promising predoctoral students enrolled in combined MD/PhD or other dual-doctoral degree programs, with the goal of fostering future physician/clinician-scientists.

Grant Details
Candidates must propose an integrated research and clinical training plan along with a dissertation research project in scientific health-related fields relevant to the missions of participating NIH Institutes and Centers. The fellowship experience is expected to enhance the individual's potential to develop into a productive, independent physician/clinician-scientist.

The program does not allow candidates to lead independent clinical trials but permits participation in clinical trials led by sponsors or co-sponsors. The training plan should document the need for, and anticipated value of, the proposed mentored training in relation to the individual’s career goals. It should provide a strong foundation in rigorous research design, experimental methods, and analytic techniques appropriate to the proposed research.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include higher education institutions without NIH-funded institutional predoctoral dual-degree training programs. Candidates must be citizens or non-citizens of the United States or have been lawfully admitted for permanent residence. They must have matriculated into a formal dual-degree program and identified a dissertation research training project and sponsor(s).

A baccalaureate degree or equivalent is required, along with evidence of high academic performance in sciences and commitment to a career as an independent physician-scientist or clinician-scientist.

Period of Performance
Individuals may receive up to 6 years of aggregate Kirschstein-NRSA support at the predoctoral level for dual-degree training (e.g., MD/PhD).

Grant Value
The total value of the grant includes stipends, tuition, fees, and an institutional allowance. Specific amounts are determined annually based on NIH guidelines.

Place of Performance
The grant will be performed at institutions without NIH-funded institutional predoctoral dual-degree training programs.