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Enabling a Viable Pipeline of NHLBI Extramural Investigators in Fiscally Challenging Times
Author(s) -
MaricBilkan Christine,
Charette Marc,
Oh Young,
Schum Paula,
Gao Yunling,
McDonald Cheryl,
Reid Diane,
Robinson Valerie,
Stanley Dennis,
Fuentes Kelin,
Olive Michelle,
Eblen Matthew,
Pearson Katrina,
Tolunay Eser,
Galis Zorina
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.30.1_supplement.776.1
Subject(s) - demographics , medicine , pipeline (software) , demography , fiscal year , distribution (mathematics) , environmental health , gerontology , business , finance , computer science , mathematical analysis , mathematics , sociology , programming language
A major goal of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) is to maintain a viable and robust pipeline of extramural investigators. We have examined data on NIH funding trends among research project grant (RPG) awardees using economic and demographic data between fiscal year 1998 and fiscal year 2014. We have divided the investigators who received RPG awards during this period into three age groups: “early‐stage” (24–40 years), “mid‐career” (41–55 years) and ”established” (56 years and greater). We observed that there has been a low level, but progressively steady shift, in the distribution of NHLBI RPG awardees. The cause of this shift appears to be due, in part, to a parallel shift in the demographics of NHLBI RPG applicants. The combined result of these shifts has implications for the overall distribution of NHLBI RPG direct cost dollars. The magnitude of these effects is significantly increased during periods of flat or slightly declining levels of RPG funding. The three main drivers of these trends, 1) the shifting demographics of NHLBI RPG applicants, 2) the changing distribution of RPG direct cost dollars, and 3) the adverse effects of prolonged periods of level or slightly declining research funding, will be presented in detail along with suggested proposals that are intended to ensure the NHLBI will maintain its steady pipeline of qualified investigators now and for the foreseeable future. Support or Funding Information None