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NIH Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant

NIDCD Early Career Research(ECR) Award

Funds a self-contained project on hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech or language by a scientist starting an independent career.

OpenNational Institutes of HealthUnited States

A research grant with two gates: the investigator's career stage, and an unusually specific list of subjects.

The subjects are the institute's whole mission and there are seven of them: hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech, and language. Both basic and clinical research count.

The applicant has to be a scientist beginning to establish an independent research career. The notice adds one …

Self-contained basic and clinical research projects on hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech or language by scientists beginning an independent research career, including secondary data analysis, methodology development, translational research, outcomes research and new research technology, intended to produce preliminary data for a subsequent research project application. Not for thesis or dissertation research. Clinical trials are optional.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Multiple per year
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.15 Oct 2027
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.26 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.—
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.—
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.—

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: PAR-25-120Source: www.grants.gov