Diversity Supplements

GENERAL INFORMATION

The UW School of Public Health (SPH) is committed to mentoring and training the next generation of public health professionals and prioritize equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). Using NIH Diversity Supplements is one way we can support our diverse health science researchers.

ELIGIBLE GRANTS

Review our Diversity Supplement Database.

Determine if you meet the eligibility criteria.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognize that achieving diversity in the biomedical research workforce is critical to the full realization of our national research goals, and supports the development of a diverse and well-trained research workforce through “Research Supplements to Promote Diversity in Health-Related Research" (PA-21-071). The goal of these supplements is to increase diversity in the research workforce by providing training, mentorship and career development opportunities to individuals who are underrepresented in biomedical, behavioral, clinical, social and basic sciences research.

Supporting investigators and trainees in securing Diversity Supplements directly aligns with the UW SPH commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. SPH is committed to training a diverse and inclusive public health workforce that embodies humility, respect, leadership and service on behalf of, and with, the diverse communities we are privileged to serve.  NIH Diversity Supplements are part of the UW School of Public Health Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Road Map (2019), Action 4.7, which promotes the use of research grants to increase opportunities for underrepresented undergraduate students, graduate students, post-doctoral fellows and faculty.

For principal investigators, diversity supplements:

  • Shows a commitment to address issues of equity, diversity and inclusion
  • Allow you to receive additional funding to support outstanding individuals on your project for 6 months – 5 years, depending on the current budget cycle of your grant
  • Have a relatively short application process
  • Are quickly processed (typically <10 weeks) and do NOT go through a full review
  • Have a high funding rate (>50%)

For candidates/trainees, diversity supplements:

  • Allow you to gain hands-on research experience with a faculty mentor
  • Provide you with a salary/stipend, tuition, and insurance benefits
  • May provide additional funding for your research project (dependent on career level)
  • Provide experience writing an NIH-grant
  • Provide opportunities to travel to national/international meetings and present your research
  • Are a great way to prepare you for your next career phase

Eligible applicants are US Citizens, non-citizen nationals of the US, and individuals who have been lawfully admitted for permanent residence (i.e., in possession of Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551) that meet ONE or more of the following eligibility criteria: individuals from underrepresented racial/ethnic groups; individuals with disabilities; and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.

More details on eligibility criteria can be downloaded.

Please join our SPH Diversity Supplement Listserv to submit your questions, connect with Diversity Supplement awardees, and coordinate information meetings. Email divsupp@uw.edu and submit your questions to the group.

Note: All current and former Diversity Supplement awardees are encouraged to join this to provide support to new applicants and discuss your experience. Participation may include a brief email exchange or setting-up a time to meet with potential candidates. Requests happen on a rolling basis, and you can opt-in or out of the listserv and requested email exchanges at any time, by emailing us at divsupp@uw.edu.

Revised: Aug, 2023