NIH recently announced major changes to the R15 program that will affect the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and the UT Institute of Agriculture (which NIH considers one institution). NIH has split the R15 into two programs: the Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions, and the Research Enhancement Award Program (REAP) for Health Professional Schools and Graduate Schools.
The Office of Research and Engagement has evaluated the eligibility criteria and has concluded the following:
- UT and UTIA are eligible for AREA. This includes active solicitations PAR-18-714 and PAR-19-133.
- UT and UTIA are not eligible for REAP. This includes active solicitations PAR-19-134 and PAR-19-135.