EIA Versus K-Awards

Q: Could you describe the differences between the early independence award and the K-award and how the goals of the two programs differ

A: The Early Independence Award (DP5) program has a very specific objective, which is to identify and support those exceptional individuals who would benefit by having an independent research position directly after completion of the terminal doctorate or clinical residency. It is not directed towards the large majority of young researchers who would be better served by doing a post-doctoral or clinical fellowship. 

The K-Awards are career development awards that serve a variety of purposes ranging from support of junior scientists during the transition to an independent position to support of senior scientists who wish to have “protected” time to mentor junior scientists. The different NIH institutes may also use the same K -Award for different specific objectives. To find which one may be most appropriate for you, consult the K-Award kiosk at http://grants.nih.gov/training/careerdevelopmentawards.htm  and the Career Award Wizard at http://grants.nih.gov/training/kwizard/index.htm. Many of the K-Awards for junior scientists require a particular mentor to be specified, seek individuals with particular backgrounds, and expect post-doctoral training.