The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has released a new framework that will change how Institutes, Centers, and Offices (ICOs) determine funding outcomes. This approach will take effect beginning with the January 2026 Council round and is intended to increase transparency, equity, and alignment with NIH’s mission across all ICOs.
Under the new strategy, all ICO funding policies must now reflect six core principles:
Align with NIH’s mission and health priorities
Prioritize scientific merit by considering peer review information in full
Incorporate diverse research topics and approaches relevant to ICO priorities
Support investigators across career stages and sustain the biomedical workforce
Promote broad and geographically balanced funding distribution
Reflect ICO budget availability and responsible stewardship of funds
A notable shift is NIH’s move away from the use of paylines. While peer review remains essential, ICOs will weigh scores and critiques within the broader context of strategic priorities, research needs, and financial commitments. NIH will also centralize ICO funding policies and financial management plans to enhance transparency and ensure consistency.
Additional information (including guidance on peer review, funding considerations, and the transition from paylines) is available in the full announcement.
To learn more, visit NIH’s Extramural Nexus News: Implementing a Unified NIH Funding Strategy to Guide Consistent and Clearer Award Decisions (November 21, 2025).
Please feel free to reach out to your DCG Officer if you have any questions.