National Institute of
General Medical Sciences

The purpose of the IRACDA program is to develop a diverse group of highly trained scientists to address the nation's biomedical research needs. The program promotes consortia between research-intensive institutions (RII) and partner institutions that have a historical mission and a demonstrated commitment to providing training, encouragement and assistance to students from groups underrepresented in the biomedical research enterprise of the nation. The IRACDA program combines a traditional mentored postdoctoral research experience with an opportunity to develop academic skills, including teaching, through workshops and mentored teaching assignments at a partner institution. The program is expected to facilitate the progress of postdoctoral candidates toward research and teaching careers in academia. Other goals are to provide a resource to motivate the next generation of scientists at partner institutions and to promote linkages between RIIs and partner institutions that can lead to further collaborations in research and teaching.

Applications must be submitted on behalf of a consortium of domestic, private or public, educational institutions. The lead applicant institution must be an RII and it must serve as the primary site of the postdoctoral research experience, and the consortium must include one or more partner institutions. The program must have a strong research base and the mentored research experience must fall within the scope of the NIGMS mission. The application must include appropriate training in the responsible conduct of research and contain a detailed process and outcome evaluation plan.

The total project period may not exceed 5 years and projects are renewable. Institutions that receive awards may recruit and select candidates directly into their programs rather than submitting a separate application on behalf of each prospective candidate. Applicants may request salary and fringe benefits to support the full-time effort of the candidates for up to 3 years, as well as funds for tuition, fees and books related to career development; supplies and other research expenses; and travel to one training or scientific meeting per year. Funds may also be requested to support mentored teaching activities at the partner institution and program administration.

For more information about this award, see the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts, July 13, 2022 (PAR-22-212), or contact ​ Dr. Shakira Nelson or Dr. Sydella Blatch Alexander.

Funded IRACDA Grants 2022 IRACDA Applicant Webinar

IRACDA Participating Institutions 2022 IRACDA Applicant Webinar Slides [PDF]