Limited Competition: Small Grant Program for the NCATS Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program (R03 Clinical Trial Optional)

This is a brief overview of the Small Grant Program available under the NCATS Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA). This grant program is a limited competition and is secondarily known by the code R03 Clinical Trial Optional. The grant's fundamental purpose is to increase the research capacity of NCATS CTSA Program KL2 scholars and beneficiaries of diversity and re-entry supplements funded by the CTSA Program.

Those who receive this grant are expected to transition into fully independent academic translational scientists, heading their research. The R03 grants will financially support a variety of clinical and translational science research projects. This includes feasibility studies, secondary data analysis of existing information, small, self-sufficient research projects, the creation of new research methodologies, and the development of new research technology.

Though it is not mandatory, the proposals for the R03 application may encompass patient-oriented research. Importantly, these grants are designed to assist research projects that can be completed within a short timeframe and with minimal resources. This allows for the collection of preliminary data which may then be used to apply for a subsequent and larger R01, or equivalent, grant application.