Lantern Grants

NIH Mentored Research Scientist Development Award (K01)

The K01 gives a research-doctorate scientist protected time to build new skills under a mentor on the way to independence.

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What it funds

Mentored research and career development, often to move into a new field or deepen expertise in an institute's priority area. Institutes use K01s differently, so read the institute-specific notes.

Who can apply

Research doctorates (such as a PhD) at the start of their careers who need a further period of mentored work. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals or permanent residents and must commit at least 75% of full-time effort (9 person-months).

Award size

Salary support plus a smaller research allowance, at levels set by each institute.

Duration

3 to 5 years.

How applications are reviewed

Reviewers score the candidate, mentoring team, career development plan, research plan and institutional commitment together.

Deadlines

Standard due dates are 12 February, 12 June and 12 October (resubmissions 12 March, 12 July and 12 November).

Our summary, checked against NIH guidance in October 2026. Rules, budgets and dates change: always confirm in the current announcement before you apply.

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