Resources for Researchers with Disabilities

Learn about NIH grant-related resources and other information relevant for NIH-supported researchers with disabilities. 

Overview

This page provides information and resources for researchers with disabilities in biomedical research supported by extramural awards. Topics include funding opportunities, relevant grant policies and requirements, peer review, notifying NIH of potential harassment or discrimination, how to improve accessibility, and more.

Background

NIH's ability to help ensure that the nation remains a global leader in scientific discovery and innovation depends on a pool of talented scientists with broad perspectives to conduct and review biomedical and behavioral research. People with disabilities make valuable contributions to the research enterprise as principal investigators, key personnel, trainees, peer reviewers, laboratory and other institutional staff, and community advisory members.

NIH Funding Opportunities, Policies, and Requirements

Eligibility as a Program Director/Principal Investigator (PD/PI)

Researchers with disabilities may serve as PD/PI on NIH awards. to learn more, check the eligibility criteria in NIH funding opportunities published in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts.

Administrative Supplements to NIH Awards

If a PD/PI designated on an NIH research award, program project, or center grant is or becomes disabled during the project period, the organization may request administrative supplement funds. These funds may be used for reasonable accommodations so the PD/PI may complete the currently funded research project. Examples depend on the situation, but may include special equipment, an assistant, or other modifications to facilitate reasonable accommodation to a disabling injury or illness.

Resources for Peer Reviewers with Disabilities

NIH supports researchers with disabilities participating throughout peer review. For instance, the Center for Scientific Review explains Accommodations for Reviewers with Disabilities to allow full participation by those with disabilities, including Guidance for Scientific Review Officers for working with reviewers who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (D/HH) (PDF). Please contact your Scientific Review Officer with any questions.

Accessibility Examples

Below are selected examples of how organizations can make the research environment accessible for researchers with disabilities.

  • Bring researchers and trainees with disabilities, who have valuable perspectives to address challenging biomedical problems, onto research teams.
  • Consider accessibility with adaptive technologies (e.g., screen readers) when developing and using research products and electronic systems. Find tips for Tables, Charts, and Figures as well as Accessible PDFs (PDF).
  • Make scientific conferences and other events more accessible through Reasonable Accommodations, allowing everyone to fully participate and contribute. For virtual events, ensure sign language interpreters are available when requested. Designate someone to monitor the text chat and read questions and comments aloud.

Relevant Sections of the NIH Grants Policy Statement

Statements and Reports

Relevant NIH Blogs

Additional Statements from NIH Leadership or Advisory Groups

Additional Resources

Report a Concern

NIH does not tolerate harassment, discrimination, bullying, or other inappropriate conduct of any kind anywhere NIH-funded activities are conducted. This includes against people with disabilities. Please review our Supporting a Safe and Respectful Workplace at Institutions that Receive NIH Funding website. You may notify NIH about any concerns via the online webform.

This page last updated on: January 24, 2025
For technical issues E-mail OER Webmaster