What’s New at NIDA
Congratulations to the NIDA’s 2024 Diversity Scholars Network Scholars!
This year, 15 scholars participated in NIDA’s Diversity Scholars Network program. Each year, NIDA solicits applications for this grant-writing and career development program, with the goal of assisting promising individuals launch their independent research careers. This year, scholars participated in three workshops, including an in-person mock review meeting. Participants had the opportunity to network, collaborate, listen to interactive talks and panels, as well as learn about navigating the NIH grant application and review process. We would like to thank all NIDA Program Officials, coaches, and mock reviewers for their role in the program. We would like to also congratulate our scholars for all their hard work this year!
If you are interested in being an NDSN coach or mock reviewer for the upcoming NDSN program, please contact Ms. Isabela Ellenwood. The application for the 2025 NIDA Diversity Scholars Network program will open on November 1st, 2024, and close on January 31, 2025.
If you are interested in being a part of the next cohort, be sure to join the NIDA, Office of Research Training, Diversity, and Disparities (ORTDD) on Monday November 4, 2024, from 12:00-1:00 PM ET, and learn all about the NIDA Diversity Scholars Network (NDSN) Program! During the pre-application webinar, learn about program eligibility, the application process, NIH funding mechanisms, and how to connect with NIDA Program Officials. Register now!
This live streamed webinar will be presented with real-time captioning. If you have additional accessibility needs or require a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact Isabela Ellenwood at least 5 business days prior to the event.
2024 Diversity Supplement Professional Development & Networking Workshop Recap
Nearly 700 individuals convened virtually to attend this year’s NIH Diversity Supplement Professional Development & Networking Workshop this past Tuesday and Wednesday, September 24th-25th, 2025. On each day of the event, participants attended presentations, panel discussions, and had invigorating conversations in breakout rooms on a variety of topics related to professional and career development. Through the Gather platform, scholars were able to present posters, network, meet NIH Program Officials, and connect with one another.
One of the major highlights from the workshop included a brand-new session called the IC Directors’ Fireside Chat. The fireside chat was moderated by NIHs’ Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD), Dr. Marie Bernard, and the panel consisted of Directors from four Institutes, NIDA, NIMHD, NICHD and NIDCR (Dr. Wilson M. Compton, Dr. Eliseo J. Pérez-Stable, Dr. Diana Bianchi and Dr. Jennifer Webster-Cyriaque, respectively). Participants found the information they shared about their IC’s mission and diversity specific activities as well as their personal journey, challenges, and experiences throughout their careers extremely impactful and very inspiring.
Another highlight was the keynote speaker for Day 2 of the workshop, Dr. Arielle H. Sheftall, Associate Professor at the University of Rochester Medical Center in the Department of Psychiatry in Rochester, New York. Dr. Sheftall gave an outstanding talk on how the diversity supplement was an instrumental first step in her path to becoming an independent investigator, shared her current and past research, and how having dedicated mentors along the way was pivotal in her success. She also provided advice on how to stay productive when writing dissertations, grants, and manuscripts for publication. Overall, her talk was regarded as helpful and encouraging to participants!
Finally, we want to highlight the IC specific breakout sessions which provided participants with the opportunity to learn about funding mechanisms, IC-specific programs, and network with NIDA staff. NIDA’s ORTDD team led their IC specific breakout session and discussed a variety of funding opportunities, the importance of diversity within science, various resources available to assist with launching a research career, as well as how to identify/interact with a Program Official. Congratulations to all scholars on their hard work, as well as to all the organizers of this wonderful event!
See the agenda for a full listing of presenters and events.
The Inaugural NIDA Diversity Supplement Webinar!
Save the date! The National Institutes on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is holding its first ever NIDA Diversity Supplements Webinar. Join us on Wednesday October 16, 2024 from 1:00pm – 3:00pm ET to learn more about this important career development program. Expect to hear about eligibility, the application process, tips for submitting a strong application, program impact, and more! Check out the NIDA Diversity Supplement Program website so you can have your questions ready. Please reach out to Dr. Angela Holmes, for any questions about the webinar. Please reach out to Isabela Ellenwood for reasonable accommodations requests at least 5 business days prior to the event. Register now!
Program Update
Register to Host a NIDA Summer Intern!
ORTDD’s NIDA Summer Research Internship Program (NSRIP) is now accepting registration forms from NIDA-funded Investigators with active research grant awards interested in hosting a summer intern for 8-weeks during the summer in 2025. The deadline to register is October 20, 2024.
The purpose of the internship is to expose undergraduates to substance use and addiction research. Internships may include laboratory experiments, data collection, data analysis, formal courses, participation in lab meetings, patient interviews, manuscript preparation, and literature reviews. In addition, each intern will have an opportunity to deliver a brief presentation on their research project at the end of the internship.
If you have a passion for mentoring and would like to expose our next generation of scientists to research, consider participating this year! Please note, registering to host an intern will not guarantee an internship placed at your site. More information about the NSRIP can be found on the NSRIP website or by reaching out to the program contact, Ms. Julie Huffman at NSRIP@nih.gov.
Career Development Spotlight: Dr. Joao P. De Aquino
The ORTDD is thrilled to introduce Dr. Joao P. De Aquino to the NIDA research training, diversity, and disparities community! Dr. De Aquino is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the Yale University School of Medicine. He is also the Director of the Pain and Addiction Interaction Neurosciences (PAIN) Lab and the Assistant Chief of Inpatient Psychiatry, within the Clinical Neuroscience Research Unit (CNRU). Dr. De Aquino was recently awarded an R01 grant titled “Combination of THC and CBD as a Novel Treatment for Co-Occurring Opioid Addiction and Chronic Pain” to evaluate the combined effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) in alleviating pain and opioid craving among individuals living with both opioid use disorder (OUD) and chronic pain. Learn more about Dr. De Aquino below!
Please share about yourself and your background including your education, research interests, and passions. How were you introduced to research and if there was a particular event/individual who inspired you to pursue addiction science?
I am an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Yale University and Founding Director of the Pain and Addiction Interaction Neuroscience (PAIN) Lab. My research focuses on translating neurobiological advances into novel, non-opioid treatments for chronic pain and substance use disorders, addressing their clinical and neurobiological overlap. We use behavioral pharmacology, psychophysics, and clinical trials to assess pain- and addiction-related outcomes both in the lab and in real-world settings.
My passion for addiction science began in high school when I witnessed a family member struggle with a substance use disorder. This experience, combined with my interest in science, inspired me to pursue medicine and addiction research. My interest in the intersection of pain and addiction emerged during clinical training, where I became intrigued by their overlap and naturally inclined to seek connections between these phenomena. Over the years, several mentors have played a key role in guiding my research, particularly in exploring the neuropsychopharmacology of pain and reward.
What role did mentorship play in you navigating the NIH grant application process and making decisions about next steps throughout your career?
Mentorship has been central to my success in securing NIH funding. I've been fortunate to benefit from both intramural and extramural mentors who helped me develop competitive NIH applications, including K23, R21, and R01 grants. Through Yale’s Neuroscience Research Training Program and external mentorship from Travel Awards and Career Development Programs, I adapted to the NIH process.
Mentors guided me in integrating pain and addiction research methodologies, rigorously framing research questions, and developing studies on phytocannabinoids for opioid use disorder and chronic pain. NIDA officials have also been incredibly supportive, providing invaluable guidance in navigating the funding process. Their collective support has been crucial in advancing my independent career. It truly takes a village to create an NIH-funded scientist.
How did you learn about the New & At-Risk Investigator funding opportunity and how did you leverage it to launch your independent career?
I learned about this opportunity through NIH funding notices and collaborative networks. This funding allowed me to initiate my first R01 project, establishing a strong foundation for my independent research. Specifically, it enabled the launch of a phase 2 clinical trial on phytocannabinoids for opioid use disorder and chronic pain, and allowed me to establish a methodology to test dual-action treatments, which I aim to apply to various non-opioid strategies and others substance use disorders that also co-occur with chronic pain. Furthermore, the funding supported research into combinations of medications and helped me grow my team and mentorship efforts, contributing to the development of the next generation of researchers in this field.
What has been the most challenging obstacle(s) you have faced throughout your journey to becoming a scientist and how have you overcome them?
Navigating the regulatory landscape of human psychopharmacology, especially with Schedule 1 substances, has been a major challenge. Complying with regulations from multiple oversight bodies, including federal agencies and university committees, required persistence, patience, and strong collaborative networks.
As an immigrant and Latino scientist, adapting to the U.S. research environment added complexity. Establishing a research program while expanding my clinical expertise required careful planning, and a diverse group of mentors who understood these challenges were invaluable in helping me navigate both scientific and cultural adaptation.
Balancing regulatory, clinical, and research responsibilities while adapting to a new environment has profoundly shaped my career and strengthened my determination. This journey has highlighted the critical role of resilience, mentorship, and strong professional networks in advancing my goals. I am deeply grateful for the support I’ve received along the way.
What advice could you share with early career scholars interested in research but feel lost about which path to take and may not have the resources/support necessary to take steps forward?
My advice is to actively seek mentorship early on. Build a transdisciplinary network of mentors at various levels—this includes senior mentors who can offer long-term career guidance and peers who are just a few steps ahead and engaged in similar challenges. Their combined insight will be invaluable as you progress. Focus on research questions that genuinely excite you, as that passion will help you persevere through difficulties.
Explore opportunities like travel awards, career development programs, and conferences to broaden your network and gain exposure to new ideas. Don’t hesitate to reach out to NIDA training officials for guidance—they can provide invaluable help navigating training opportunities. These experiences will expand your knowledge and help build relationships that are essential for your professional growth.
Please feel free to share anything else you think might be helpful to our NIDA research training community.
Building a research career is a marathon, not a sprint—resilience and perseverance are essential. Stay receptive to feedback and continuously refine your work. Surround yourself with mentors and collaborators who challenge and support you, and don't forget to celebrate small victories along the way. Beyond developing strong writing, discipline, and data analysis skills, I believe that regular physical exercise can be invaluable in maintaining focus and resilience over the long term. Above all, persistence and a solid support network are key to thriving in research.
Many thanks to Dr. De Aquino for his willingness to share about his journey! Interested in learning more about the Research Opportunities for New and "At-Risk" Investigators to Promote Workforce Diversity? See the funding opportunity for information about requirements. This program is intended to support New Investigators and At-Risk Investigators from diverse backgrounds, including those from groups underrepresented in the health-related sciences. Investigators from diverse backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups (e.g., see NOT-OD-20-031, Notice of NIH’s Interest in Diversity), are encouraged to work with their institutions to apply for support under this program. NIDA encourages you to apply now!
Did You Know?
NIH Seminar on October 17: How Diverse Perspectives Enhance Data Science Outcomes
Mark your calendars! The NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD) office has announced an upcoming virtual seminar. “How Do Diverse Perspectives Enhance Data Science Outcomes?” will be held on Thursday, October 17, from 1:30–3:00 p.m. E.T.
Three distinguished NIH researchers will describe how diverse representation in data science enhances machine learning and artificial intelligence accuracy, such as in electronic health record data sets. The panelists will highlight the benefits of an inclusive environment in the scientific field.
This event will include closed captioning. Sign language services and other reasonable accommodation are available upon request using the registration form. Registration is now open.
NIH Grants Policy Updates: FY2025 Edition
Join the NIH Office of Extramural Research (OER) on Thursday, October 17, 2024 from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM ET virtually to learn about the latest information on NIH policies and processes! NIH policy experts will share essential updates and address how these changes might impact your institution’s compliance process, policies, and procedures during this live webinar. Register for the session.
Event questions and special requests contact: NIHgrantsevents@nih.gov
Technical issues contact: NIHgrantsevents@nih.gov
Accessibility request: NIHgrantsevents@nih.gov
NIH Grants Process Primer: Application to Award, Two-Part Event
The NIH invites you to attend a two-part webinar designed to help inform and clarify important elements from application preparation to award. Join Dr. Noni Byrnes, Director of the NIH Center for Scientific Review, and Dr. Mike Lauer, NIH Deputy Director for Extramural Research and Director of the Office of Extramural Research at NIH, as they introduce the webinar, “NIH Grants Process Primer: Application to Award,” designed to help researchers and administrators navigate the NIH grant application process.
Register one time for access to both Part One and Part Two.
Part One: An Overview (November 13, 2024 / 1:00 – 4:00 P.M. ET)
- NIH experts will provide an overview of pre-award activities and resources - from planning your application through the review process to award determination.
Part Two: An Interactive Experience (November 14, 2024 / 1:00 – 4:00 P.M. ET)
- Interactive activities and demonstrations will offer participants further insight into systems and resources utilized in the pre-award process.
Throughout both days, NIH experts will be available to address questions submitted during registration to assist with the path toward a successful NIH application process.
Event questions and special requests contact: NIHgrantsevents@nih.gov
Technical issues contact: NIHgrantsevents@nih.gov
Accessibility request: NIHgrantsevents@nih.gov
Applying for an NIH Grant Award? Changes are coming!
If you are applying for an NIH grant in 2025, you will need to use “FORMS-I.” NIH will post version FORMS-I of the grant application forms and training data table format pages to support the changes coming to NIH application and peer review for due dates on or after January 25, 2025. The posting effort will begin in late October and continue through November. Visit the links below for additional information on what is changing:
- Changes Coming to NIH Applications and Peer Review in 2025 web page
- Overview of Grant Application and Review Changes for Due Dates on or after January 25, 2025 (NOT-OD-24-084)
- High-level Grant Application Form Change Summary: FORMS-I
- Preview of NIH Grant Applications: FORMS-I
Let’s Talk PrEP
Questions about HIV PrEP and how it relates to people with substance use disorders? The NIDA HIV Research Program has invited some HIV clinical research experts and people living with HIV and substance use disorders to join their next virtual Seminar, “Let’s Talk PrEP”, October 23rd, 1-2:30 pm. The seminar includes Drs. Rupa Patel from Whitman-Walker Health and the CDC; Dr. Jaimie Meyer from Yale, and Dr. Hansel Tookes from the University of Miami. Register now! For more information please contact Dr. Varthakavi Vasundhara.