The goal of the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) is to develop a diverse pool of highly trained physician-scientist leaders available to meet the Nation’s biomedical research needs. Specifically, this funding opportunity announcement (FOA) provides support to eligible domestic institutions to develop and implement effective, evidence-based approaches to integrated dual-degree training leading to the award of both clinical degrees, e.g., M.D., D.O., D.V.M., D.D.S., and research doctorate degrees (Ph.D. or equivalent). With the dual qualification of rigorous scientific research and clinical practice, graduates will be equipped with the skills to develop research programs that accelerate the translation of research advances to the understanding, detection, treatment and prevention of human disease, and to lead the advancement of biomedical research. Areas of particular importance to NIGMS are the iterative optimization of MSTP training efficacy and efficiency, fostering the persistence of MSTP alumni in research careers, and enhancing the diversity of the physician-scientist workforce. NIGMS expects that the proposed research training programs will incorporate didactic, research, mentoring and career development elements to prepare trainees for careers that will have a significant impact on the health-related research needs of the Nation.
This FOA does not allow appointed trainees to lead an independent clinical trial but does allow them to obtain research experience in a clinical trial led by a mentor or co-mentor.
Applicant organizations may submit only one application. NIGMS will support only one MSTP training program per institution (normally identified by having a unique DUNS number or NIH IPF number). Likewise, applicant institutions may not submit applications to NIGMS for a training program to both the January 25, 2020 application due date for the Parent T32 announcement and the May 25, 2020 due date for this announcement.
Deadlines:
PAR-19-036 Expiration Date September 8, 2021
NIGMS encourages multiple institutions to participate in a single MSTP application, where this may further advance the goals of the program. A single contact institution would receive and administer the award.
The sponsoring institution must assure support for the proposed program. Appropriate institutional commitment to the program is detailed in the Institutional Support Letter attachment instructions in Section IV.2.
As described in the instructions for the Training Program Director(s)/Principal Investigator(s) (PD(s)/PI(s)) in Section IV.2 below, NIGMS encourages multiple PDs/PIs, particularly when each brings a unique perspective and skill set that will enhance training. At least one of the training PDs/PIs should be an investigator with an active research program in basic, translational, or clinical science, capable of providing both administrative and scientific leadership to the development and implementation of the proposed program. Additional PDs/PIs, including physician-scientists or individuals with experience in science education, social sciences, program evaluation, mentoring, and university administration, may be included to achieve the training goals. Any of the PDs/PIs may serve as the contact PD/PI. The PDs/PIs will be responsible for the selection and appointment of trainees to the approved research training program and for the overall direction, management, administration, and evaluation of the program. The PDs/PIs will be expected to monitor and assess the program and submit all documents and reports as required. The PDs/PIs have responsibility for the day-to-day administration of the program and are responsible for appointing members of the Advisory Committee (when applicable) and using their recommendations to determine the appropriate allotment of funds.
