Global Infectious Diseases Research Training Program (D43 Clinical Trial Optional)
🏛 National Institutes of Health (HHS-NIH11)
✓ Free, no account · Source: Grants.gov · Last verified Jul 27, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for researchers and institutions building capacity in global infectious disease research. Eligible applicants include U.S. institutions with IRB-approved research programs. Applicants must demonstrate commitment to training the next generation of infectious disease researchers in low- and middle-income countries.
The program supports research training focused on infectious diseases with global health significance. Projects may address conditions like tuberculosis, malaria, HIV, or emerging pathogens. International collaboration and mentorship of early-career researchers are emphasized.
Training programs must include coursework, research experience, and career development. Institutions should have established partnerships with organizations in resource-limited settings. The program encourages diversity in trainee backgrounds and research settings.
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Key dates
- Feb 6, 2026 Applications open
- Aug 6, 2026 Application deadline in 8 days
- Mar 15, 2027 Award announced
- Mar 15, 2027 Project start
Program description
This initiative supports rigorous advanced research training programs for low- and middle-income country (LMIC) scientists on infectious diseases that pose a potential threat to the U.S. and present special opportunities for research that are not readily available in the U.S., such as unique resources, exposed or infected populations, or environmental conditions that impact transmission. Applications must be relevant to the mission of at least one of the participating NIH Institutes, Centers, or Offices. Each program will provide long-term research training, along with complementary short-term training activities, and will include intensive mentorship and relevant training in data-driven science, professional skills, responsible conduct of research, and biosafety. Trainee research projects will leverage NIH-funded studies and thus will enhance NIH international investments. Research training programs will strengthen collaborations between U.S. and LMIC researchers to better understand the transmission and pathology of pathogens and to develop diagnostic, preventive or treatment interventions, especially those suited to low resource settings globally.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- SF-424 (R&R) Federal Application Form
- Project Narrative
- Budget and Budget Justification
- Biographical Sketches of key personnel
- Institutional Support/Commitment Letter
- IRB Approval Documentation
- Letters of Collaboration from international partners
- Trainee recruitment and selection plan
Program contact
- 👤 Geetha Bansal
- 📧 FIC-ID@nih.gov
- 📞 301-496-1492
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 93.989 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
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$52,173,936
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$50,365,175
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$40,336,583
-
$39,520,790
-
$35,974,939
-
$27,789,761
-
$20,151,900
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$15,921,171
-
$15,230,037
-
$15,062,168
Top States by Funding
- NY 14 awards $140.0M
- IN 3 awards $68.1M
- TN 5 awards $59.5M
- CA 8 awards $46.1M
- IL 5 awards $36.2M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 93.989). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $67,000,000 | |
| 2025 | $69,732,021 | |
| 2026 est. | $70,429,341 |
FAQ
What types of institutions can apply for this grant?
U.S. domestic institutions with research capacity and existing international partnerships can apply. You'll need institutional support, IRB approval, and a strong research mentorship structure.
Can this grant support clinical trials?
Yes, the D43 Clinical Trial Optional designation means trials are permitted but not required. Projects may focus on non-trial research training in infectious diseases.
Who should be trained through this program?
Early-career researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students are typical trainees. Emphasis is on developing researchers who will work on global health challenges.
What is the typical funding range?
D43 programs typically award $200,000-$400,000 annually for 5 years. Actual amounts vary by program and review scores.
What happens after the training period ends?
Trainees should be positioned for independent research careers. Institutions must demonstrate sustainability plans for continuing the research and training mission.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Emphasize your institution's track record mentoring early-career researchers in international settings.
- Clearly describe trainee recruitment and selection criteria to ensure diversity.
- Detail partnerships with host country institutions and their roles in training.
- Show how trainees will develop into independent investigators with research portfolios.
- Include a sustainability plan demonstrating how training capacity continues beyond the grant period.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Weak or underdeveloped partnerships with host institutions reduces competitiveness. Vague trainee mentorship plans without specific milestones and career outcomes fail to convince reviewers. Insufficient emphasis on research independence and career development outcomes.
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