Research Infrastructure Programs – Other Research

The Office of Research Infrastructure Programs (ORIP), within the Division of Program Coordination, Planning, and Strategic Initiatives (DPCPSI) in the NIH Office of the Director, supports extramural biomedical research by strengthening the infrastructure that enables scientific discovery. ORIP advances human health by fostering the development of critical research models, biomaterials, and technologies; expanding access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and facilities; supporting education and training programs; and assisting small businesses in translating innovative technologies. Through its two divisions, the Division of Comparative Medicine (DCM) and the Division of Construction and Instruments (DCI), ORIP plays a critical role in accelerating biomedical research nationwide. DCM develops and sustains essential research models and biological resources, manages the infrastructure required for their use and distribution, and provides training to ensure investigators have reliable access to high-quality models and facilities. DCI supports shared, cost-effective access to advanced scientific instrumentation, modernizing research facilities, and providing critical equipment that enables transformative biomedical discoveries. Together, DCM and DCI strengthen U.S. competitiveness and ensure the biomedical research community has the infrastructure necessary to address emerging health challenges, prevent disease, promote health, and advance foundational science.

Institutions of higher education, hospitals, and other institutions and organizations, both nonprofit and for-profit, seeking to establish, continue, or enlarge programs consistent with the objectives of the program. To be eligible for instrumentation and equipment programs, applications must be Private nonprofit institutions/organizations, Public nonprofit institutions/organizations. Applicants for NRSA must be citizens of the United States or be admitted to the United States for permanent residency. Applicants must be nominated and sponsored by a public or private nonprofit institution with staff and facilities suitable for the proposed research training. Nonprofit domestic organizations may apply for the institutional NRSA. Research Career Development: Applications may be submitted on behalf of candidates by domestic, nonfederal organizations, public or private institutions of higher education.

The initial review of applications from eligible investigators and institutions is reviewed by committees comprised of authorities in various fields of biomedical research and science education, as appropriate. Each application is given a peer evaluation for merit, and recommendations are forwarded to the NIH Council of Councils for final review and recommendation.