NIDCR Dual Degree Dentist Scientist Pathway to Independence Award (K99/R00 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The NIDCR Dual Degree Dentist Scientist Pathway to Independence Award (K99/R00 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) is a grant program aimed at fostering the growth and independence of dentist scientists holding dual degrees. This program is orchestrated to create a smooth transition for these highly qualified individuals from roles that involve mentor-guided postdoctoral research to independent faculty positions that are either tenure-track or equivalent.

Under the program, financial assistance is provided for two years of training under a mentor and for an independent research period that ranges from three to five years. An added advantage is that participants can opt for five years of independent support (R00). This feature is specifically added in order to make room for clinical training in a specialized dental program. However, it is worth noting that the allowed effort for this training is capped at 3 person-months (i.e., 25% effort) for any given year within the R00 phase.