Research on Current Topics in AD/ADRD

NIA AD/ADRD R21 Exploratory Research Grant

Supports exploratory Alzheimer's and dementia studies in the United States for high-risk, novel research directions.

PAR-25-331, titled Research on Current Topics in Alzheimer's Disease and AD-Related Dementias (R21 Clinical Trial Optional), is NIA's parent NOFO for exploratory and developmental R21 grants in the AD/ADRD space. The R21 mechanism supports up to two years of high-risk, novel research that is not yet ready for the longer commitment of an R01. Released December 30, 2024 and expiring November 17, 2027, this NOFO hosts the same suite of active NOSIs that define eligible priority topics under the companion R01 NOFO PAR-25-332 — including digital technology for AD/ADRD detection, endosomal trafficking, immune system in aging, selective neuronal vulnerability, and novel diagnostic approaches. A significant practical advantage of the R21 in FY2026 is that it is explicitly exempt from the 16% competing award budget reduction that applies to R01 grants; R21 budgets are preserved at reviewed and recommended levels.

Eligible applicants include U.S. and foreign universities, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, and research institutions. Individual investigators apply through their institutions. The R21 is particularly well suited for preliminary data generation, novel methodology development, and exploratory analyses that would test the feasibility of a larger research program. Applications do not require extensive preliminary data — the emphasis is on scientific innovation and rationale for the exploratory approach. AD/ADRD-focused applications are funded from NIA's dedicated congressional appropriation for Alzheimer's research, separate from NIA's core budget, and must align with NIA's AD/ADRD Research Implementation Milestones.

Applications are submitted through Grants.gov on standard NIH due dates — three cycles per year — through November 2027. The review process follows standard NIH peer review via study sections and National Advisory Council on Aging approval. Applicants should review active NOSIs attached to the parent NOFO to confirm their proposed topic area is currently prioritized before investing in a full application, as funded topic areas shift across cycles.