Initial Outcomes for the NHLBI K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Program in Relation to Long-Standing Career Development Programs: Implications for Trainees, Mentors, and Institutions

Abstract

Sufficient history now exists to assess the Nationa Institutes of Health Pathway to Independence Awar (K99/R00), first offered in 2007 to support the career developmen of biomedical researchers. The success of K9 (Mentored Phase of the K99/R00) principal investigator in obtaining subsequent grant support was compare with that of principal investigators supported by th long-standing K08 (Mentored Clinical Scientist Researc Career Development Award) and K23 (Mentored Patient Oriented Research Career Development Award) programs For cardiovascular K awards initiated in fisca years 2007 to 2009, K99 principal investigators were mor successful in obtaining subsequent grant support than th other groups. Although a bibliometric analysis showe similar publication quality for all groups, the K99 grou was most persistent in applying for the next grant. Possibl implications of these findings for all K Award principal investigators their mentors, and institutions are presented.