Institutional Research and Academic Career Development Awards (IRACDA) (K12 - Independent Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The Institutional Research and Academic Career Development Awards (IRACDA) Program is a grant program that does not permit independent clinical trials. Its aim is to provide postdoctoral researchers with a mentored research opportunity at a research-intensive institution, along with the chance to develop key teaching and mentoring skills at a partner institution that heavily focuses on teaching and serve a diverse student body.

A significant condition of the IRACDA program is the establishment of efficient partnerships between a research-intensive institution and a partner institution that either has a historical mission or evidenced commitment to educating students who are usually underrepresented in the biomedical research workforce.

The primary objective of the IRACDA program is to cultivate a diverse collection of highly trained biomedical scientists who possess the necessary knowledge and skills required to embark on independent academic teaching and research careers. The program also seeks to benefit partner institutions with a focus on teaching, by contributing research-oriented, beginner career teachers, mentors, and role models for the students, and by enhancing scientific educational programs on offer. It also aims to provide research opportunities for faculty and students, and to bring expertise in modern research methods and technologies.

The funding opportunity that this announcement represents, however, does not permit the appointed scholars to lead an independent clinical trial. Nevertheless, it does allow them to gain research experience in a clinical trial as long as it is led by a mentor or co-mentor.