Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions (R15 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking applications for the Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions. The purpose of this award is to support small-scale research grants at institutions that do not receive substantial funding from the NIH, with an emphasis on providing biomedical research experiences primarily for undergraduate students, and enhancing the research environment at applicant institutions. Key aspects of this opportunity include: • Eligible institutions must award baccalaureate science degrees and have received no more than $6 million dollars per year of NIH support in 4 of the last 7 fiscal years. • The award amount is up to $375,000 for a period of up to 3 years. • The opportunity is open to various types of institutions, including private and public institutions of higher education, with a focus on undergraduate-focused institutions. • Applications are due by January 7, 2028. • This is a discretionary grant, and the NIH anticipates making multiple awards under this opportunity.