The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has published new guidelines for the Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) program. AREA awards support small-scale health-related research projects proposed by faculty members otherwise unlikely to participate extensively in NIH programs. The AREA program is a research grant program, not a training grant or fellowship program. However, the active involvement of undergraduate (preferred) and graduate students in the proposed research is highly encouraged, and reviewers will consider whether a project will expose students to meritorious research. Applications are due by February 25, June 25, and October 25 annually.

The new guidelines include several changes:

• The maximum award has increased to $300,000 in total direct costs over three years.
• The eligibility threshold has increased to campuses that have received no more than $6 million per year (in both direct and F&A/indirect costs) in each of four or more of the last seven years.
• The Research Strategy section may not exceed 12 pages, including tables, graphs, figures, diagrams, and charts.
• Applicants requesting more than $250,000 in annual direct costs must complete and submit budget requests using the Research & Related Budget component

Applicants are strongly advised to review the AREA program website and direct questions to one of the AREA program representatives listed. NIH applications undergo two steps of review: peer review and institute/center (IC) review. While peer reviewers evaluate an application, the IC funds it, so early program officer contact is an important factor in application development, especially where a new program announcement is concerned.