March 11, 2011

Frequently Asked Questions for the Independent Scientist in Global Health Award (ISGHA)

Following find answers to frequently asked questions for Independent Scientist in Global Health Award (ISGHA) applicants for program announcement PAR-10-065, released in December 2009.

Is an applicant required to have an independent research award at the time of application?

Yes, an applicant is required to have an active research award at the time of application. FIC uses this award to support independent scientists, therefore principle investigators on NIH research awards or other significant research awards from other sources are eligible to apply.
Does my research grant have to be from the NIH?

No, your research grant can be from any source. It must be able to fully cover your research plans during the course of the career development award.
Are there any restrictions on research topics/areas?

No, there are no restrictions on topic areas. However, please note the following:
- The research has to be conducted in a developing country.
- If the research described in your application is a clinical trial, consult with Fogarty staff prior to submitting your application.
How do I find out what countries are classified as "developing?"

For a current listing of developing countries, please review World Bank Country Classifications information , which identifies "low income economies" and "lower-middle income economies."
How much time am I required to devote abroad?

ISGHA recipients must agree to spend a minimum of 50% of the total grant period physically in-country conducting research at a developing country institution, and at least three months spent abroad per year.
How much support can I get through the grant?
- Salary support: up to $100,000 or 50% of salary (whichever is less) per year
- Research support: up to $10,000 per year
How many years of support will be covered?

Applicants can request 3 to 5 years of support.
How many awards will be issued each year?

The total number of awards will depend upon the quality and merit of applications received and contingent upon availability of funds.
If my initial application is unsuccessful, can I reapply?

Yes, you can. Please note that the new rules limit you to only one resubmission.
If I do not meet the eligibility requirements for ISGHA, are there other career awards that I can apply for?

You may be eligible for other NIH career development awards offered through other NIH Institutes and Centers.
Where can I find the new guidelines for NIH grant applications?

Review a summary of changes for restructured application forms on the NIH Office of Extramural Research site.
What are the Fogarty International Center’s priorities?

The Fogarty's Strategic Plan (2008-2012) intensifies focus on chronic, non-communicable diseases while continuing to address the unfinished infectious disease agenda.
Can I conduct a clinical trial under this award?

It is beyond the scope of this award for FIC to be the primary sponsor of a clinical trial. If the research in this award includes a clinical trial, the candidate must identify the primary sponsor of the trial and provide documentation that the sponsoring institution has an approved data & safety monitoring plan in place and provide a brief description of the key elements in the plan. Candidates proposing to conduct clinical trials should consult with relevant Fogarty Center staff.
Do the new application page limits apply for this award as well?

The FIC K programs fall under the same policies as other K programs administered throughout the NIH, therefore the same policies apply.
Does my post-doctoral training or medical residency or clinical fellowship count as “fellowship” for eligibility purposes?

Yes.
What are the allowable costs for the research development funds?
- Tuition and fees related to career development
- Research expenses, such as supplies, equipment, and technical personnel
- Travel to developing country site, research meeting, or training
- Statistical services including personnel and computer time
Salary for mentors, secretarial, and administrative assistance, etc, is NOT allowed. In addition, in no case may funds be requested that duplicate funds already being provided by other research support.
Do I need to have a mentorship plan?

Depending on where you are in your career at the time of application, you may not need to demonstrate a mentorship plan.

Updated February 2011