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Maximizing Investigators' Research Award (MIRA) for Early Stage Investigators (ESI)

Funds a whole early-career research program at once, instead of one project, for investigators just starting out under NIGMS.

OpenNational Institutes of HealthUnited States

Most NIH grants fund a project. This one funds a whole research program instead, and this version is for the earliest stage of an independent career.

MIRA for Early Stage Investigators distributes funding among promising investigators nationally, in a program of research aligned with the NIGMS mission, aiming to boost scientific productivity and the odds of real breakthroughs rather than back one…

Independent research program funding, rather than single-project funding, for Early Stage Investigators pursuing a program of research aligned with the National Institute of General Medical Sciences mission — supporting exploration of new research areas, ambitious or creative projects, adoption of emerging techniques and technologies, and mentoring.

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.6 Feb 2029
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-27-032Source: www.grants.gov