Recent talk about changes to the Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) have sparked conversation about applicant eligibility, clinical trials and overall access to an increasingly competitive funding mechanism within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The goals of the AREA program are to provide support for meritorious research, strengthen the research environment of schools that have not been major recipients of NIH support, and expose undergraduate and graduate students to hands-on research.

Last week, a growing number of sponsored researchers voiced concern over possible changes that may impact the future of institutional research and student engagement at AREA-eligible institutions. In response to member concerns, GRC contacted Michael Lauer, NIH’s deputy director for extramural research, who encouraged GRC members to “stay tuned” as new policy changes become available in the near future. In the meantime, these are the AREA announcements available where multiple institutes participate:

1. The parent AREA (no clinical trials) still shows a January 2021 expiration date. This is important to highlight because a recent notice from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases says the expiration date will change to January 2019. However, GRC has not yet been able to confirm that this will occur. All institutes except for the National Institute of General Medical Sciences still participate. Applicants must still consult the list of ineligible institutions before applying.

2. The AREA for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions (no clinical trials) was posted in March with a May 2021 expiration date. Currently only six institutes participate. While the eligibility still depends on the amount of NIH funding received by non-health professional schools or colleges, applicants must also submit a signed letter from the provost (or similar official with institution-wide responsibility) verifying eligibility.

3. The AREA that allows for clinical trials was posted last November with only eight institutes currently participating. Applicants must still consult the list of ineligible institutions before applying.

The AREA plays a significant role on member campuses across the country. GRC will continue to gather information and report facts as they become available. Contact Willette B. Fatoyinbo, Program Manager, with your concerns regarding the AREA or additional health-related funding opportunities.