Report from the National Institute on Aging: the research grant support mechanism.

Most NIH support of research on aging has been in the area of the biomedical sciences, followed by behavioral and social sciences. Research project and program project grants are the primary mechanisms available to the NIA for support of research on aging. The grant process for aging research begins with preparation and review at the applicant institution. The process of review at NIH proceeds from referral to an intitial review group for peer review and NIA for possible funding, NIA staff review, the National Adivisory Council on Aging review, and concludes with NIA funding action. The primary mode of applicant appeal of a negative decision by NIA on an application is reapplication.