PAR-21-319 Global Brain and Nervous System Disorders Research Across the Lifespan (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)

This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) encourages exploratory/developmental research grant applications, piloting innovative, collaborative research projects with low- and middle-income country (LMIC) institutions/ scientists on brain and other nervous system-related function and disorders throughout life, relevant to LMICs. Research on the full spectrum of neuro-health, neurological, neuromuscular, sensory, neuropsychiatric, cognitive, behavioral and neurodevelopmental function and disorders may span the full range of science from basic to clinical to translation and implementation research. Scientists in LMIC institutions may partner with scientists in other LMIC institutions and/or U.S. institutions . Income categories are defined by the World Bank at http://data.worldbank.org/about/country-classifications/country-and-lending-groups).

These grants are expected to foster the development of more comprehensive research programs that contribute to the long-term goals of building sustainable neuro-health research capacity in LMICs to address brain, nervous system and neuromuscular related development, function and impairment throughout life and to lead to diagnostics, prevention, treatment and implementation strategies. The proposed work may also contribute to developing a base for research networking and evidence-based policy beyond the specific research project.