Summary: The fiscal year 2026 (FY26) Multiple Sclerosis Research Program (MSRP) Investigator-Initiated Research Award (IIRA) supports highly rigorous, high-impact research projects that have the potential to make an important contribution to Multiple Sclerosis (MS) research, patient care, and/or quality of life. All applications must address at least one of the FY26 MSRP IIRA focus areas. Research projects may focus on any phase of research, excluding clinical trials. The rationale for a research idea may be derived from laboratory discovery, clinical trial results, population-based studies, a clinician’s firsthand knowledge of patients, or anecdotal data. Applications must include preliminary and/or published data that are relevant to MS and the proposed research project.

Distinctive Features: This funding mechanism includes two options: Established Investigator or New Investigator. The New Investigator option supports applicants early in their faculty appointments.