The NLM mission is to support research efforts that contribute to advancements in the field of biomedical informatics and data science, with far-reaching implications for improving health and well-being. NLM fosters the advancement of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies, contributes to biomedical informatics and data science advancement, and develops strategies to improve health.
Scientific Areas of Interest
The NLM's interest in these key research areas emphasizes innovative methods and approaches to foster data-driven discovery.
Area 1:
Advancing Trustworthy, Reproducible, and Rigorous Biomedical AI
- Methods to evaluate and benchmark AI for bias, reliability, security, and generalizability
- Tools and frameworks for interpretable, explainable, reproducible, and fit-for-purpose AI
- Real-world studies of AI deployment and impact
- Scalable approaches integrating complex biomedical and health data
Area 2:
Biomedical Data Infrastructure at Scale
- Privacy-preserving data linkage, federation, and integration
- Semantic interoperability and metadata harmonization
- Risk- and benefit-aware data curation and evaluation frameworks
- Standards supporting scalable, interoperable data ecosystems
Area 3:
Sustainable Biomedical Reference Resources and Platform Science
- Methods to enhance usability, access, and discovery
- Approaches that support reference datasets, metrics, and frameworks for quality assurance and AI benchmarking
- Approaches that support cost-effective, interoperable platform architectures and services
- Approaches for monitoring, maintenance, drift detection, and responsible sunsetting
Area 4:
Biomedical Tools and Methods—Human-Centered Use and Impact
- User-centered tools for discovery, navigation, and application of authoritative knowledge
- Workflow-integrated and validated AI for research and clinical decision-making
- Evaluation of AI safety, trust, and mitigation of inaccuracies
- Secure, public-facing tools supporting evidence-based health actions
Find additional information on the NIH Grants & Funding NLM Profile page.
Funding Opportunities and Grant Types
The NLM provides funding opportunities to support scientific areas of interest through different types of grant programs. For each of these programs, NIH uses activity codes, such as R01 or R43 to differentiate the variety of activities we support. Click the links below to learn more about the grant programs NLM supports and the associated activity codes.
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Grants are available for fundamental and applied research in biomedical informatics and data science. Activity codes include R01, R15, and R21.
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Resource grants provide funding to improve the dissemination, management and use of biomedical knowledge. Activity codes include G08, G13, R13, UG4, and U24.
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Opportunities are available to support researchers at many stages as they advance in their career. Activity codes include K01, K08, K25, K99/R00, R25, T15, and F31.
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Grants for small businesses and partnering research institutions focused on developing cutting-edge solutions in the field of biomedical informatics. Activity codes include R41, R42, R43, and R44.
Learn More
How do I learn more about what NLM is funding and has funded in the past?
- Active NLM Grants are listed on NIH RePORTER.
- Previously funded NLM Grants are listed on NIH RePORTER dating back to 1985.
May I contact someone at NLM to discuss potential funding with for my scientific research?
- Contact the NLM program officer who best matches the scientific area of your research.
How can I learn more about NLM funding decisions?
- Visit the NLM Grants Funding Plan to learn more about the NLM Funding Strategy.
How do I apply for an NIH grant?
- The NIH Grants Process Overview outlines how to apply for an NIH grant in detail.
How do I figure out the grant type, necessary approval or, internal organization planning before the formal application?
- The NIH Funding Basics page offers resources for getting started on your grant application.
How do I complete and submit an application? Will I receive an assignment number?
- The NIH Application Guide covers how to write and submit a grant. You will also find NIH grant policies.
How do I find out more about the peer review process?
- Upon completion, grant applications are assigned to the appropriate NIH Institute or Center, then evaluated. Learn more about the NIH Referral and Review Process.
How do I find out more about the awarding process?
- Visit NIH Funding Decisions and Award Process for more information about pre-award and post-award processes.
Last Reviewed: April 15, 2026