Silvio O. Conte Centers for Basic Neuroscience or Translational Mental Health Research
Can you apply?
This grant is for research institutions and universities conducting basic neuroscience or translational mental health research. Eligible applicants include academic medical centers, research institutions, and universities with IDeA-eligible states preference (but not exclusive). The program funds multi-year research center grants that support collaborative, interdisciplinary teams. Activities include basic neuroscience research, translational mental health studies, and capacity-building in brain research. Geographic scope is nationwide, with emphasis on expanding research capacity in underrepresented regions.
Key dates
- Sep 12, 2025 Applications open
- Jun 9, 2026 Application deadline in 8 days
- Apr 1, 2027 Award announced
- Apr 1, 2027 Project start
This grant is for research institutions and universities conducting basic neuroscience or translational mental health research. Eligible applicants include academic medical centers, research institutions, and universities with IDeA-eligible states preference (but not exclusive). The program funds multi-year research center grants that support collaborative, interdisciplinary teams. Activities include basic neuroscience research, translational mental health studies, and capacity-building in brain research. Geographic scope is nationwide, with emphasis on expanding research capacity in underrepresented regions.
Program description
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) seeks research applications for the Silvio O. Conte Centers for Basic Neuroscience or Translational Mental Health Research. Primary research objectives include 1) advancing the state of science in basic brain and behavior research to uncover and dissect the underlying mechanisms that will ultimately provide the foundation for understanding mental disorders, 2) supporting the integration and translation of basic and clinical neuroscience research on severe mental illnesses, and/or 3) advancing our understanding of the neurobehavioral developmental mechanisms and trajectories of psychopathology that begin in childhood and adolescence. Research teams that work at different levels of analysis and employ integrative, novel, and creative experimental approaches to address high-risk, high-impact questions are encouraged. Applications are not being solicited at this time. This Notice is being issued to provide potential applicants ample time to develop strong, collaborative, and responsive project plans. Research teams with expertise and insights in basic neuroscience or translational research that demonstrate an extraordinary level of synergy, integration, and potential for advancing the state of the field are encouraged to consider applying to the NOFO.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
- 501(c)(3) Public Charity
- City / Municipal Government
- Colleges (all higher ed)
- County Government
- Nonprofits
- Private University
- Public University
- Small Business (SBA-defined)
- Special District
- State Government
- Tribal Nation
- Tribal Organization
Details
This grant is for research institutions and universities conducting basic neuroscience or translational mental health research. Eligible applicants include academic medical centers, research institutions, and universities with IDeA-eligible states preference (but not exclusive). The program funds multi-year research center grants that support collaborative, interdisciplinary teams. Activities include basic neuroscience research, translational mental health studies, and capacity-building in brain research. Geographic scope is nationwide, with emphasis on expanding research capacity in underrepresented regions.
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance)
- Project Narrative and Research Plan
- Budget and Budget Justification (5-year projection)
- Institutional Support Letters
- Biosketches of Key Personnel
- Letters of Collaboration
- Timeline and Milestones
Program contact
- 👤 Suzanne T. Garcia, Ph.D.
- 📧 suzanne.garcia@nih.gov
- 📞 301-827-1366
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 93.242 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
-
$75,056,208
-
$74,756,329
-
$72,845,834
-
$64,705,159
-
$63,991,707
-
$54,214,022
-
$38,895,082
-
$38,475,557
-
$34,635,977
-
$34,475,710
Top States by Funding
- CA 15 awards $408.1M
- MA 9 awards $230.3M
- NY 6 awards $184.2M
- WA 4 awards $174.9M
- CT 3 awards $138.9M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 93.242). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $1,722,300,004 | |
| 2025 | $1,726,864,191 | |
| 2026 est. | $99,221,272 |
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Academic institutions, research hospitals, and universities can apply. IDeA-eligible states receive preference but are not required.
What research areas does this grant support?
Both basic neuroscience and translational mental health research. The focus is on understanding brain function and advancing clinical applications.
Is this a single-year or multi-year award?
This is typically a multi-year center grant lasting 5 years with potential renewal. Awards support sustained research programs.
How competitive is this program?
Very competitive. Only established research institutions with strong track records typically succeed. Previous NIH funding and preliminary data are essential.
What's the typical funding range?
Center grants typically range from $500,000 to $2 million per year, depending on scope and center size. Actual amounts vary by competition.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Build a strong interdisciplinary team with complementary expertise in neuroscience and mental health.
- Include preliminary data demonstrating feasibility and innovation of your research approach.
- Highlight institutional commitment through letters of support and dedicated resources.
- Address how your center will develop research capacity in underrepresented areas or emerging topics.
- Connect your proposal to current neuroscience priorities and unmet mental health research needs.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Weak preliminary data or unclear innovation relative to existing research. Insufficient institutional commitment or unrealistic budget allocations for multi-year operations. Poor integration of team expertise or vague research directions.
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