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Seed Pilots for Aging Research Collaboration (SPARC): RCCN Pilot Grants to Promote Inter-NIA Center Collaborative Research

The Research Centers Collaborative Network (RCCN) goal is to catalyze enduring, collaborative, interdisciplinary research projects across NIA center programs by funding pilot, planning or meeting grants of up to $65,000. Proposals should address topics spanning the missions of multiple NIA Center programs. Relevant topics are exemplified by the themes of RCCN-sponsored workshops, but other topics relevant to the NIA center programs will also be considered. Each project should involve at least two NIA-sponsored research centers. There are two deadlines annually and up to two awards will be granted each cycle.


This award program is sponsored by the NIA’s Research Centers Collaborative Network (RCCN). The RCCN’s goal is to bring together researchers from the 7 NIA Centers programs to foster the development of cross-center collaborations around issues important to the health and well-being of older adults.

The RCCN sponsors a series of workshops addressing specific problems of high salience to multiple NIA Center programs. These workshops feature the sharing of paradigms, conceptual models, and key insights from perspectives of the participating centers programs. Workshops include:



After the workshops, publications are developed summarizing the proceedings and priority areas; past publications are available here.




The Butler-Williams Scholars Program: The Preeminent Aging Research Career Development Program

The Butler-Williams Scholars Program provides unique opportunities for junior faculty, researchers new to the field of aging, and postdoctoral fellows to gain insight about aging research. The program offers a variety of perspectives and includes presentations, seminars, and interactive small group activities and discussions.


About the Butler-Williams Scholars Program

The Butler-Williams Scholars Program is held annually in the summer.

Presentations cover research topics including: the biology of aging; genetics and Alzheimer's disease; health, behavior, and aging; and health disparities research related to aging. Discussion sessions focus on methodological approaches and interventions. The program also includes support and consultation for the development of attendees' research interests and advice on preparing and submitting research grant applications to NIA — directly from NIA scientific review and program officers!


Who Should Apply?

Applications are sought from emerging researchers, including those who may have limited involvement in research on aging. The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or permanent resident. As an offering of the NIA Office of Special Populations, researchers with an interest in health disparities research related to aging are encouraged to apply. Applicants from diverse backgrounds, including individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, individuals with disabilities, and women, are always encouraged to apply for NIH support.

Qualified applicants must hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D., Dr.PH., M.D., D.O., etc.). Only applicants working in the field of aging — or actively pursuing this research field — will be considered.


Applicant Evaluation Criteria

Applications are reviewed each spring. Participants will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Previous experience and training

  • Affiliation with a NIA-supported research university or laboratory

  • Letters of recommendation

  • A brief statement of objectives for attending the Butler-Williams Scholars Program

  • Specific aims page


How to Apply to the Butler-Williams Scholars Program

Application information for the Butler-Williams Scholars Program is made available each fall/winter. Applicants will be notified of acceptance within 60 days of the submission deadline. Generally, the application requirements include:

  • Statement of 150 words or less describing your objectives in attending the Butler-Williams Scholars Program.

  • Letters of recommendation from two people familiar with your professional interests and scholastic achievements. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure letters of recommendation are received.

  • One-page specific aims. Please include a full specific aims page as would be seen in an application for award. Be sure to discuss expected outcome and impact of your research.

  • NIH Biographical Sketch (General).


Application and Additional Resources

The resources below can help applicants develop successful applications for the Butler-Williams Scholars Program.


Learn more about the Butler-Williams Scholars Program

Contact the NIA Office of Special Populations to learn more about the Butler-Williams Scholars Program.

Supporting Underrepresented Graduate Students in Aging Research: The NIA R36 Dissertation Award

R36 at a Glance

  • Eligibility: Underrepresented PhD students at the dissertation phase

  • Maximum Award Duration: 2 years

  • Yearly Due Dates: February 16, June 16, October 16

  • Award Budget: $42,500 Salary, $28,656 Additional Expenses


This Notice of Funding Opportunity aims to promote diversity in the scientific research workforce engaged in research on aging and aging-related health conditions by providing R36 dissertation awards in all areas of research within the National Institute on Aging's (NIA) strategic priorities. The NIA R36 dissertation award offers research and salary support during those crucial final years of graduate studies. It also now comes with a larger salary and additional expenses budget. The R36 aims to promote diversity in the aging research workforce, so candidates from groups underrepresented in the biomedical sciences are encouraged to apply.










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