NIH Extramural Nexus (News)

Blog co-authored by Dr. Lyric Jorgenson, Associate Director for Science Policy, and Dr. Jon Lorsch, NIH Deputy Director for Extramural Research.
Throughout the year we advanced a policy agenda that was based on two interlocking principles. The first principle involved pro-actively anticipating policy needs that would drive biomedical research. The second was to ensure that we cut unnecessary red tape to the maximum extent possible.

NIH will contact the applicant in certain, limited situations if required attachments of an application were not submitted on time. 

NIH is requesting public input on its proposal to establish harmonized and transparent policy requirements for protecting human participant research data. 

The complete Focus on Fellowships video series has been updated to include parts 3 and 4. As a reminder, NIH fellowships are open to early career scientists, including those at the predoctoral and postdoctoral level. 

Applicants, take advantage of this overview to learn how NIH Highlighted Topics differ from Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs). There are significant distinctions that you should understand when planning a project for your next application.

NIH (including help desks) will be closed on Thursday, December 25, 2025 for the federal holiday (Christmas Day). If a grant application due date falls on a federal holiday, the application deadline is automatically extended to the next business day.

Please note that the Extramural LRP Application Submission Deadline has been extended to December 4, 2025. The new deadline also applies to reference letters and institutional certifications.

NIH plans to review all applications submitted for the January 2026 Councils (e.g., applications that were submitted to due dates in summer 2025) and maintain the quality of review.

Today, NIH has implemented steps towards a unified strategy that will help guide clearer and consistent funding decisions across all Institutes, Centers, and Offices (ICOs). Building on the August NIH Director’s statement, this framework (effective January 2026 Council round) will help ensure we continue to support the most scientifically meritorious research ideas possible, address health priorities, and support a robust biomedical workforce.

NIH (including help desks) will be closed on Monday, October 13, 2025 for the federal holiday (Columbus Day). If a grant application due date falls on a federal holiday, the application deadline is automatically extended to the next business day.