Because its NIH start in 2006, the K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award has facilitated the changeover of postdocs into impartial investigator positions by providing the option for two phases of funding, throughout and up to 5 many years. Still, it is not simple to write a prosperous K99 software, and these intricate, multi-part submissions usually reach 100 webpages in duration.

Several candidates reward from looking through previously prosperous programs and receiving tips from K99 awardees in their specialist networks. To make this type of source accessible to all possible K99 candidates, NIA worked with one particular of our awardees to publish their really scored application.

A new resource for K99 candidates

Candidates for the approaching June 15 and foreseeable future K99 deadlines can examine our not too long ago revamped NIA K99/R00 site, which includes sample programs from Dr. Ryo Sanabria, now an assistant professor at the College of Southern California. Dr. Sanabria generously provided not only their profitable 2020 K99 resubmission, but also their first 2019 submission, together with reviewer summary statements for each application. With this pairing, candidates can see how Dr. Sanabria successfully adjusted their software and tackled reviewer responses for resubmission.

Be aware, although, that any sample application is a snapshot in time: Often examine the FOA and adhere to the most current guidelines. As you explore this software, recall that this is a solitary instance of a profitable K99, and that each individual software will be unique. It is important to tailor your analysis approach, together with your vocation enhancement plan, to your own distinct needs. NIA receives good quality K99 programs written in a range of types, and we hope to publish more sample apps in the future. You can also investigate added K award sample applications from NIAID.

Guidelines for a profitable K99

In addition, as you put together your K99, maintain in mind these standard recommendations:

• Program forward. The K99 has a limited eligibility window of up to four a long time of postdoctoral experience (with some extensions available, which we explain on the NIA K99 web page). This limit also applies to resubmissions, so plan to post early and give on your own time for a resubmission.
• Do not neglect the job progress program. The K99 is a vocation advancement award, and reviewers worth the occupation improvement plan just as a lot as the study system. So, assemble an advisory workforce that handles all parts of essential abilities for your undertaking, and strategy your continued instruction thoughtfully.
• Spotlight your programs for independence. K99 reviewers want to know how you will differentiate you from your postdoctoral mentor, and how much of your postdoctoral job you can get with you to your very own lab. Evidently describe your eyesight for independence and discuss this with your mentor to greatest align the mentor and prospect portions of your application.

Finally, remember that the K99 is only 1 award sort, and it is not appropriate for every person. For illustration, for postdocs who are nearer to independence and really do not need to have the further postdoctoral education funded by the K99, other vocation growth awards may well be a superior suit.

If you are organizing to apply ahead of the June 15 deadline, we hope this anatomy of a productive K99 software is practical, and we desire you excellent luck in your initiatives! Our NIA Coaching and Career Advancement group is satisfied to solution your issues about the K99 or other vocation growth awards at [email protected].